The Croft - issue 23

the croft Lifestyle

Style

p. 6 Sex and the City style guide

Food

Wellbeing

p. 8 An ode to being single

Travel

p. 13 A journey down the Rhine

Cover art by Lucy Klemperer

p. 10 Bristol's best date-night restaurants

p. 4 Dating disaster stories

issue 23 11.2.22

2 lifestyle 6 style 8 wellbeing 10 food 12 travel top stories

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Erogenous zones wordsearch

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The joys of being single

16 Valentine's

horoscopes

Editor’s letter

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elcome back to The Croft! Although we are now a few weeks into Teaching Block 2, this is our first issue of The Croft since 2021. V-Day is just around the corner and this issue is about everything Valentine’s.

I used to be a big Valentine’s Day gal. My high school boyfriend and I made a point of trying to be the MOST romantic couple at school. My friends had to put up with endless flowers, poetry, songs, declarations of love and hours of me trying to plan the perfect date. My current relationship is way more low-key. We have no official anniversary and the only time I’ve ever given him anything for Valentine’s it was a pink WKD. To be honest, both ways feel pretty good! In my opinion, how you celebrate Valentine’s Day should be down to you and your partner.

For the first two years of university, I was single on every Valentine’s Day and my friends and I celebrated the ironic holiday ‘Gal-entine’s Day’. Four or five of us would go out for dinner, get absolutely wasted and end up on the dancefloor of a club declaring our undying love for each other. Those were probably the best out Valentine’s Days I’ve had.

Moral of the story is that Valentine’s Day can be whatever you want it to be. Yes, it’s a capitalist-driven pseudo-holiday, but so is Halloween and you don’t see many people complaining about that!

Whether you’re a Valentine’s lover or hater, there is something in this issue for you. Our lifestyle section includes Valentine’s themed puzzles and a collection of your worst date stories. On p. 3 and p. 5, our resident sexpert, Carrie Brizshaw, discusses the mysterious concept of ‘intimacy’ on p. 4. Don’t forget to look out for our horoscope section on the back page to see what’s written in the stars for you this month. If you’re sick of Valentine’s content, head to p. 14 for an article on how to balance work life and uni.

On p. 8, the Wellbeing section praises being single while on p. 10 the Food team features the best date night spots in Bristol. Style explains how to recreate iconic Sex and the City looks on p. 6 and Travel tells us what French students really think of their British counterparts on p. 12.

We hope you have a great term and an amazing Valentine’s Day!

THE TEAM The Croft Co-Editors-in-Chief ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK and SAVANNAH COOMBE Deputy Editor SANJANA IDNANI Chief Proofreader CIARA ALLEN Style Editor JENNY GALLAGHER Style Digital Editor ANIA TOWNSIN Style Deputy Editor ANNA JOHNSON Style Sub-Editor FARAH THORNDYCRAFT Wellbeing Editor EMILY FROMANT Wellbeing Digital Editor CHARLIE TONKS Wellbeing Co-Deputy Editors ASHA SULLIVAN and MADDY WHEELER Wellbeing Sub-Editors ELIN ALEXANDER and ELLIE SPENCELEY Food Editor MADDY CLEGG Food Digital Editor LOU CRAVEN Food Deputy Editor DANIEL BARGIONI Food Sub-Editor PHOEBE ALTMAN Travel Editor XANDER BRETT Travel Digital Editor MIA AUSTIN Travel Deputy Editor LUCY RAWLINGS Travel International Deputy Editor JENNY BARRUOL Travel Sub-Editor ORLA MCHALE Puzzles Editor PATRICK SULLIVAN Puzzles Sub-Editor GRACE BARNES Front Cover LUCY KLEMPERER

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Bethany Marris

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the croft

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Co-Editor-in-Chief ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK Co-Editor-in-Chief SAVANNAH COOMBE Deputy Editor SANJANA IDNANI

lifestyle

Your dating disaster stories

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ick of happy couples? Here are a few of Bristol's best dating disasters to remind you that it's not all roses and chocolates out there...

We went to spoons and he started doing push ups on the carpet and kept loudly egging me on to do one which ofc I didn’t bc who knows what has been on that carpet! It was quite embarrassing.

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So, I realise this is both a story where I am the villain and it is more of an avoided-date, but I thought it was funny. I kept seeing this person around during lectures and thought they were attractive. We ended up chatting loads after one seminar. Turns out we have tons in common! They gave me their Insta and I added them but realised when I looked at their page that I had never seen their face without a mask on... and after seeing their Insta I wasn't as interested anymore.

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Grace

I wasn’t sure I was going on a date when I went for a coffee with someone from my course in first year. We had a nice time but since it was a bit of a grey area when we parted ways I said that it would be great if we could be friends. His response was to ask me if I was asexual. I told him the truth (that I wasn’t) but it took me so off guard that I spent the rest of the day questioning whether in fact I was. When I went home and told my flatmates what had happened they found it so funny that his assumption was that if I wasn’t into him I must not be attracted to anyone, and we still joke about the time I nearly let a guy gaslight me into a different sexual orientation.

I went on a date with this guy from hinge.

The date was going alright until he asked me how often I go to the gym. I don’t go to the gym at all. He then scoffed and explained to me that he had quit his job and moved back in with his parents to go the gym full time. This wasn’t to become a personal trainer, nope he just wanted to go the gym all day every day while free loading off his parents.

The date went down hill from there after he realised I had never been to the gym in my life. We lived in the same general direction so go the same bus home. I got on first and sat down and he proceeded to sit three down behind me instead of next to me.

Didn’t speak to me the whole awkward bus ride home. Haven’t spoken to him since…

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Co-Editor-in-Chief ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK Co-Editor-in-Chief SAVANNAH COOMBE Deputy Editor SANJANA IDNANI

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ave you ever gotten ‘intimate’? Okay, but have you really? It’s a strange word and no one has the same definition. I believe that we all define intimacy as we have experienced it and as we wish to experience it. My personal definition is that it is the closeness you feel to another person; the comfort and trust that allows you to truly be yourself around other people.

You might hear the phrase ‘get intimate’ used to simply mean ‘have sex’, but I believe this is a misappropriation of the word. Intimacy is developed through time and care. This of course doesn’t just extend to sexual partners, but when it comes

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This is often said to be one of the most intimate parts of sex. Resist the urge to turn the lights off and make use of the lack of darkness to stare into your partner’s eyes. The closeness will feel amazing (even if there is initial awkwardness).

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Just like trust, good sex is about communication. This communication is important before, during and after you get

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to sex, it’s what makes it mind-blowing.

Intimacy can lead to incredible physical sensations. It’s something to be nurtured in a sexual setting. Intimacy does not have to just be with a committed partner, it can be with one-night-stands, FWBs and casual partners.

You might find you have immediate intimacy with someone, while with other people nerves and predispositions may prevent it being there at the start. Here are a few ways to build intimacy:

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down to it. Free yourself up to tell your partner what you really enjoy in the bedroom and share some of your deepest fantasies with them. While getting it on, tell them what does and doesn’t feel good. Afterwards discuss what happened and how it made you feel.

Appreciate the whole body:

In sex it is easy to just focus on the classics (1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 3, 5, 4, 3, 2, 2, 2, 4, 6, 2, 4, 6, 2, 4, 6, 4, 2, 2, 4, 7, 5, 7, 6, 7, 7! 7! 7!!!). Intimacy can be built by slowing sex down and moving away from the traditional erogenous zones. Focus on every inch of the skin and don’t leave a single stone unturned. This intense exploration builds trust and deepens your connection with your partner.

Trust:

Trust has been a common theme throughout this article. Without trust there cannot be intimacy. If you trust your partner, it is easier to take sex further than you thought was possible.

A great way to build trust with a partner of any kind is to cook together.

The teamwork creates a supportive environment and allows you to get to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. This might not work for onenight-stands however (sorry, would you mind just putting that away quick? I would love to hop to the kitchen and make a three-course meal together).

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Epigram / Charlotte Carpenter

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Editor JENNY GALLAGHER Digital Editor ANIA TOWNSIN Deputy Editor ANNA JOHNSON

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Sex and the City style guide

Molly Grogan's style guide for dressing like the 90s icons

irst gracing our screens in 1998, Sex and the City is not only remembered for its forward thinking portrayals of female sexuality and friendship. Indeed, the show is renowned for its fashion. The way we dress today and the trends that come back around, can find some basis in an outfit donned by one of the beloved girls. Clickety clacking back onto our screens, Blahniks ablazing, audiences of And Just Like That are reminded of the eclectic, sometimes eccentric, but outrageously chic ensembles which made the show so famous. Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, oh, how we’ve missed you.

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he day that marks the celebration of love is a hard one to define because it refers to a rather subjective concept: put simply, our views towards Valentine’s Day depend entirely on our emotions and experiences.

The very first thing that would come to my mind when thinking of Valentine’s Day is romance and the celebration of a more passionate kind of love. However, romantic love is not the only type of love!

When I was younger, I saw Valentine’s Day as a way to celebrate all types of love: familial, friendship and romantic. Each year I would make the appreciation and gratitude I have for my parents especially obvious on this day, because for me it was purely a celebration of love.

As I have gotten older, I now celebrate Valentine’s Day with my boyfriend, and this includes buying gifts for each other, making sure we spend quality time together and perhaps celebrating at our favourite restaurant. I do believe it’s important to understand that Valentine’s Day is a celebration and not simply the one day of the year you should show your appreciation to those you love. Another important concept as we progress into 2022 is the importance of self-love: something essential to our mental health. Perhaps we should make a conscious effort to congratulate ourselves and what we have achieved on Valentine’s Day because after all, self-love is the most important thing we can do for ourselves.

There is no doubt that Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse for many businesses to promote themselves through marketing. But does this mean that this celebration is all for show? For me, I do like to spend the day treating my loved ones, but I also understand that it is the thought that counts. As soon as Christmas is over, many shops will display their novelty gifts and ideas for Valentine’s Day and the fact is, if there was no such celebration, you wouldn’t dream of buying most of what is advertised.

Epigram / Jenny Gallagher

It all goes to show that, as with everything in life, as long as you and your loved ones are happy, that is all that matters!

Glossier best buys 's top picks Jenny Gallagher's Futuredew, £23 The glowiest, glossiest base product out there.

Great under foundation, on the tops of cheekbones, or worn alone. All glow, no glitter.

Skywash, £15 These matte eye paints are the easiest way to add colour to your lids. Just swipe on, blend with your finger, and they set and last all day. I have the shades palm, a beautiful golden nude, and pool, a bright cornflower blue.

Ultralip, £14 The BEST red lip if you’re not a red lip girl. This is so natural, but can be amped up for a bolder look too.

They also have loads of neutral shades if that’s more your vibe.

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Emma Vincent asks what Valentine's Day really means

style

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A reflection on Valentine’s Day

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Editor EMILY FROMANT Digital Editor CHARLIE TONKS Co-Deputy Editors ASHA SULLIVAN AND MADDY WHEELER

An Ode To Singletons on Valentine’s Day This year, like many other students I will be spending Valentine’s Day single AF. And here is my guide to all of you, who just like me, will spend this day ‘alone’.

You’re not alone, Honey.

Who said that just because you don’t have a dashing suitor turning up at your door with a bunch of roses that you are alone? If Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love, then celebrate love! We have soulmates everywhere and they don’t have to be your partner, it can be your fantastic friends. This year, I’m going to remind myself of how incredible those people are, and celebrate how lucky I am. Galentine’s day it is, ladies. And for the guys, give your bro a hug and tell him you love him. It’s important to share that.

Put The Phone Down?

This one is important. Don’t torture yourself looking at other people’s proclamations of love on Instagram this year. It is not going to help. Just because social media is telling you that everybody has somebody except for you, I promise that isn’t true. Instead, why not spend the evening reading a romance novel, or watching a rom-com? These things can be comforting and remind us that everybody who’s ever been in love was ultimately single before they weren’t. Love is on its way to you too, just give it time.

However, if you do find yourself sobbing into your pillow feeling like the abyss of single life is just too much, embrace it. Cry it out and then remind yourself that this is just one day. I understand you, we’ve all been there. Remember, being single is the one point in your life when all that matters is you. So, celebrate the fact that you’re young with your whole life ahead of you and there is no one in your way...|

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t Froman / Emily Epigram

I think one of the problems that us singletons face this holiday is that it knocks our confidence. So do something that makes you feel like your best self. Whether that’s dressing up and taking killer selfies or having a ten-step skincare routine, you do you boo.

Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that we’ve still got it, even when Brad isn’t telling you you’re fit, you can tell yourself.

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wellbeing

Getting over the Christmas blues: the best ways to get out and enjoy winter Izzy Lepone talks overcoming her Christmas blues...

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he aftermath of Christmas and New Year can often feel like an anti-climax. So, it is unsurprising that many of us want nothing more than to hibernate during the cold months and recover from our expenditures of money and energy during the festive season.

However, January and February shouldn’t be a bleak time characterised by the Christmas blues. There are a multitude of low budget activities to look forward to that will improve your month:

Catch up with friends

The Christmas period is an especially busy one, and now is the perfect time to check in with those we may have lost touch with towards the end of last year. Grabbing a coffee with a friend or going on a walk are simple ways to lift your mood, without being too mentally or physically demanding after a chaotic month.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is on our doorstep with Leigh Woods just beyond that, so why not seize the start of term to explore Bristol? It can feel great knowing getting out, and clearing your head.

Try something new

Taking up a new hobby is an ideal way to shake yourself out of a gloomy rut and establish a fresh, enjoyable routine for the year.

Yoga is just one example of an activity with incredible benefits for the mind and body, and the classes provided by Yoga Soc are both affordable and beginner friendly. If this isn’t for you, you might consider joining a sports team, taking up art classes or even volunteer work. Granted, the idea of the unknown is intimidating, but the prospect of spontaneous and exciting experiences will ultimately encourage you to get out and make the most of the month ahead.

Take a trip

A change of scenery can be just the thing to cure the Christmas blues. Instead of dwelling on the expired fun of the festive period, visiting a town or city you’ve never been to before can help create new memories. Bath is roughly a 10-minute train journey from Bristol and makes for a great day out, with a number of museums, pubs and sightseeing points to visit. There is no better way to pique your interest in the approaching months than to organise a day trip and journey out into new surroundings.

Have a day off

Epigram / Izzy Lepone

Finally, don’t place too much pressure on yourself to arrange extravagant plans for every day of the week. There is a very tangible expectation nowadays for us to drastically improve our lives after the new year, however this pressure often leads to us only feeling more dismayed in having failed to achieve such unrealistic goals. If on some days you want to stay at home and watch Netflix or read a good book, it’s more important for you to honor that preference than force your way through a packed schedule of plans, only to exhaust yourself. Ensure you take as much time as you need to recuperate after the Christmas period between maximizing the opportunities the new term holds, you deserve it!

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Editor MADDY CLEGG Digital Editor LOU CRAVEN Deputy Editor DANIEL BARGIONI

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Table for two?

Rosie Barden spills some of Bristol’s best date night destinations

ith Valentine’s Day fast approaching, now is the time to consider some of Bristol’s student-friendly date night spots.

Situated close to campus, the following list entails several restaurants and bars which are ideal for an evening with your partner, first date, or friend; they are great locations for any kind of one-on-one and are all tried-and-tested favourites of mine. With the promise of good food, an intimate atmosphere, and a fair amount of candlelight, the list below set their own charming mood to ensure a lovely evening with your loved one. So, whether it’s on Valentine’s Day itself, or just a date-night in general, I’d highly recommend the following places for an assured night of romance and money well spent!

The Coconut Tree

Caribbean Croft

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The Coconut Tree is a Sri Lankan chain with two restaurants in Bristol. The menu is elaborate with a whole page dedicated to vegetarian and vegan options, but there is also a separate menu that is entirely plant-based (so if you’re vegan this may be the place to go). Being made up of mainly small plates, it is suggested that you order lots of dishes which can be shared. Pricewise, I couldn’t recommend it more; their cocktails come as cheap as two for £10, and on Monday to Wednesday all food is half price so, with Valentine’s falling on a Monday en this year, The Coconut Tree rd couldn’t be more fitting.

Located towards Bristol’s cit y centre, this restaurant is great if you’re planning on going o u t after your meal as there are tonnes of cool bars and venues nearby. Caribbean Croft has a lively feel to it with its friendly, animated atmosphere. The inside matches the restaurant’s Caribbean theme, and colourful fairy lights are set up around the main bar. The menu offers traditional Caribbean food with a wide variety of meat, fish, and vegan dishes and is all delicious (cannot stress this enough), as are the cocktails which are 2-for-1 between 5-6:30pm and 9:30-11pm. This is a memorable place for a date-night dinner, especially when you want to be among a younger, livelier crowd for something a bit more fun.

Clifton Thai Clifton Thai is one of my favourite restaurants and is a gorgeous spot for date night. Situated on Whiteladies, the location is convenient for many students. The atmosphere is relaxed; tables are nicely spaced out and the restaurant is on the smaller side so it can’t get too noisy. The interior is elaborate with the tables being made from ornately carved wood and is candlelit in the evening. The menu has all the traditional Thai curries and dishes you could desire, and each has a meat, vegetarian, or vegan option.

They also serve cocktails for a decent price – around the £6 mark.

Overall, Clifton Thai is a lovely, quieter place for a chilled date night.

An outdoor venue in in Berkeley Square, this more luxuriant restaurant and bar is great for drinks in the evening, or drinks alongside your brunch in the day.

Its large, elegant interior is particularly fancy – possibly one to save for a special occasion or anniversary – but the terrace, or Secret Garden, has a charming, relaxed feel to it that is very welcoming and really does emulate a garden.

The cocktails are classic and delicious (we had espresso martinis).

Although slightly on the more expensive side, the venue’s luxury and the high quality of food and drink makes it worthwhile.

The Secret Garden

Snobby’s

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Snobby’s is fairly understated and a bit of a hidden gem. Situated in Redland, this Italian is ideal for a romantic dinner; the interior is gorgeous and low-lit, but the heated terrace outside is adorned with fairy lights and blankets so you can cosy up next to your partner on particularly cold nights. The staff are super friendly and can offer great wine recommendations. The menu is also designed towards sharing and offers a selection of small plates and mini ‘pizzettas’ so you can try multiple things. There are plenty of vegetarian options and vegan cheese alternatives for all the pizzas. Reasonably priced and delicious, Snobby’s is a delightful little restaurant which is both local and romantic.

Spread the love with food Bristol’s MAZI Project!

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Rosa McKay shares how you can get involved with this aMAZIng local and sustainable organisation tackling food poverty

ounded in 2021 by Melanie Vaxevanakis, The MAZI Project was established to tackle food poverty amongst the youth in Bristol’s community. The charity supports disadvantaged 16–25-year-olds living in Bristol with an evolving eligibility criterion that aims to offer their services to more and more young people. MAZI believes that everybody should have the same access to tasty food and flavours, regardless of their social background, and they have made this part of their mission. Sustainability is hugely important to the MAZI cause; they aim to use recyclable packaging and green delivery systems in addition to locally sourced food in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint.

MAZI deliver meal boxes on a weekly basis to disadvantaged young people in Bristol giving them the opportunity to try local treasures which they might not ordinarily be able to afford and connect them with their community. MAZI recognise that trying new foods and making more sustainable eating choices should not be considered a luxury.

What’s inside the MAZI meal box?

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Nutritious, fresh, locally sourced ingredients that are pre-prepared in a fruit box. These range from butter beans to butternut squash.

Up to three tasty recipes donated by Bristol chefs .

A sweet treat from local bakeries and delis for a slice of comfort.

Epigram / Lou Craven

The MAZI Mission: Meal boxes

How can you help?

Fancy joining the MAZI community? The MAZI Project have suggested a few ways that you might help to spread the love…

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Volunteer on a Tuesday – you will be helping to pack and deliver MAZI boxes across Bristol.

Are you a kitchen connoisseur? MAZI are looking for chefs to run cooking classes for the young people that they support.

Visit The Mazi Project website and donate if you can. Your money will go directly to filling each young person’s box with nourishing goodies.

Spread. The. Word. Gossip travels fast! You will be instrumental in raising awareness for MAZI and helping to support disadvantaged young people in Bristol.

Get in touch with The Mazi Project via their Instagram: @themaziproject and help tackle food poverty, today.

Not quite tickled your Valentine’s pickle? Still on the hunt for a date spot?

Look no further – Mottli has got you covered. With ‘filters’ to choose your vibe, must haves and cuisine it’s never been easier to tailor a date night to you and a lucky suitor. You can download the Mottli app now, for free, and discover your perfect Valentine's in Bristol!

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Editor XANDER BRETT Digital Editor MIA AUSTIN Deputy Editor LUCY RAWLINGS

On the Ground: Russia

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Jenny Barruol in St. Petersburg

What do French students think of their English counterparts?

Mark Ross investigates whether stereotypes still hold true

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Listen to our ‘On the Ground’ reports via the Burst Radio website and wherever you get your podcasts.

Our Valentines image: there’s surely nowhere more romantic than Venice... ... and on our website, read a journey through the Baltic states.

Epigram // Xander Xander Brett Brett Epigram

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re stereotypes outdated? Is it true that these national caricatures, invented centuries ago, no longer stand?

Not to the French, for whom a typical Englishman still drinks tea in a top hat. Popular culture has tried to update things, with little success. The French passion for Skins has only muddied their perception of typical Brits.

So, as an ambassador for Bristol University, I was curious to understand how French university students, specifically, view their English counterparts. What did my ‘vox pop’ of French students reveal? Well, firstly, in response to ‘who takes education more seriously?’, 100 per cent of respondents (out of a handful at a local soirée) voted for England… thanks mostly to the prime of Oxford and Cambridge. 50 per cent, however, thought French students were cleverer (the other half diplomatically opting for ‘it depends’). Asked to ‘describe British student culture in three words’, I received the positive responses of ‘rigorous’ (bit strange) and ‘open-minded’ (mentioned twice). ‘Alcoholic’ popped up more than I’d care to mention. I then tapped into a well of national pride when I asked which students dressed better… all respondents answered patriotically. Finally, I channelled my inner YouGov and asked which country has the most sensible politicians. All respondents answered ‘neither’.

I was hosting fellow Bristolian diplomats at the time of the poll. And, though they do resemble Poldark and Simon Basset, I hope their visit helps local French students to realise that, on the inside, their English counterparts aren’t too different from themselves.

ussia put everything in place to invade Ukraine. Publications, including Sky News and the BBC, questioned whether its assistance in Kazakhstan was tactical, and a way of saying ‘hey, Ukraine, be careful... we can invade you if we want to’. Certainly, whatever the reasons of that conflict (and its requested assistance), Russia is very important in Eurasia. Despite Biden-Putin talks, it remains difficult to ascertain the facts of this nation. Articles appear saying anti-vaxxers can go to jail, but 52 per cent of the population have taken the Sputnik vaccine, despite suggestions Russians were unsure of its efficacy. President Putin said it was effective, then caught coronavirus immediately after his shot. That’s not to say it isn’t effective, but it certainly raises questions.

As of 15th January, there are around 29,000 daily cases and, since the pandemic started, nk there have been 670,000 deaths. ov a That could increase over the rest of winter, but temperatures in St. Petersburg are only -8C during the day. It’s in Siberia you find the -30C temperatures. I’m studying, so we have 25 hours of intensive Russian language courses a week.

Most of us stay with host families for the first two months in the city centre, which is nice.

Epigram / Xander Brett

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Down the Rhine from Switzerland to The Netherlands

travel

Xander Brett follows the journey of Europe’s great river from source to estuary second capital, not it’s first. This is, surely, the most ideal location for an army of bureaucrats ruling a union with one currency and soon, I hope, one army.

Europe is characterised by its ‘clusters within a cluster’. Halfway up, it’s the Benelux Agreement. Uniting Belgium and The Netherlands, it gave Luxembourg an identity, snuggling up to the Low Countries, rather than associating with the larger powers whose languages it speaks. Here, unlike in Belgium, there’s no geographical linguistic divide. Indeed, nowhere in Europe is that geographical linguistic divide more widely felt than in Belgium, where only the island of Brussels is bilingual. It never ceases to amaze me that the rigid ‘two nations’ approach, with the Belgian entity bound only by a monarchy and prime minister, means, in Flanders, nobody speaks French, and, in Wallonia, nobody speaks Dutch.

But the Rhine, sensibly, bypasses both regions, so let’s skip straight up to The Netherlands: that wonderful land of windmills, tulips and blonde girls with gappy teeth. I love the sweetness of Amsterdam, and it’s here in the Netherlands the Rhine ends its journey. At Fort Pannerden, the river splits: the Nederrijn diverts via Arnhem and the Waal via Dordrecht, with both meeting back up at Rotterdam to spill into the North Sea. Its European credentials, unfortunately, unable to make the trip over to us.

Epigram / Xander Brett

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he River Rhine is Europe’s lifeblood. From Switzerland, it touches Austria, then travels through France and Germany, rounds the corner of Belgium and Luxembourg, before messily spitting out on the plains of The Netherlands. A simple, yet historically unrivalled path that begins in the heights of the Alps, at Lake Toma in Switzerland. I’ve always thought it ironic that the most European country isn’t in the European Union. Switzerland speaks French, German and Italian, drives on the right and likes wine, cheese, skiing and money. Yet it stays outside the monetary and customs union: sharing a cultural, but not political, heritage. But, for that reason, I think it’s appropriate the river’s journey should start here. The Rhine travels downhill along the Swiss-Austrian border, skimming across the dot of Liechtenstein, then entering the waters of Lake Constance, where it consumes the political union of Germany and Austria, turning left to form the Swiss-German border. Of course the Rhine’s purpose four times is to act as a border. But it’s the Franco-German border that is most important, separating two massive egos. Though one step either side means, immediately, a different language and customs (many on the French side eat and speak German, nobody on the German side eat or speaks French), nowhere else on the Continent do you feel more European. I’ve never understood why Strasbourg is Europe’s

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The importance of balance Amy Hirtenstein gives us her top tips for balancing a job alongside university life

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ast semester, for the first time, I decided to get a job alongside my university degree. I wanted to have more financial freedom, a wider circle of friends and an increased sense of routine and productivity. A job provided me with all the above but also brought some unexpected consequences. I had a schedule that felt out of my control, depleted levels of energy and reached emotional and physical burnout once every three weeks. So, here are my top tips for doing-itall at university. These tips are forged out of the thousands of mess-ups and mistakes made by yours truly, so trust that I am going to get you through this!

1. Work out what your priorities are

It is so easy to sign on to do a shift schedule you think you’re capable of doing before you end up fighting off that cold that crept up on you, or tonsillitis strikes again! When you feel run-down and drained, you need to allow yourself time to recover instead of jumping from work to study and back again.

Also, a massive aspect of university life is spontaneous social events, these are often the best nights out! If you end up signing away all your free time, these become impossible, and you can end up feeling isolated and lonely.

Give yourself time with nothing planned! This time is sacred and when it’s lost often everything else can fall apart.

This is an important consideration because doing it all does not necessarily mean you are doing it all well. What are the things you value most in life? Is it your university degree? Your social life? Your evening or morning routine?

When you go into a steady schedule of employment alongside university, your time can get eaten up fast. If you don’t know what aspects of your life hold value to you and your mental health, they can accidentally get lost in your schedule and emotional burnout can become a reality.

If you know that FOMO is going to get you hard, pick a job or a schedule that leaves your evenings free and only do one or two shifts a week.

If your morning wake-up routine is sacred to you, late night and early morning shifts may be your worst nightmare.

If your aim is to get that 1st at the end of this year, make sure your shifts are scheduled with your classes and study schedule at its centre.

The most difficult part of having a job is realising this all too late and then being unable to reclaim and reintegrate the things that make you happy into your nor-

2. Always overestimate how much time you need

Just because you can, does not mean you should! If your university schedule is on the lighter side that does not mean that for every afternoon or evening you have free you should be on shift. It is okay to ask for one or two shifts a week until you get a handle on your schedule. It is okay to block off a week when coursework or exams are due.

One expectation that often comes with working is the expectation to be the perfect employee.

But remember you are a student, there are limitations to what you can take on. When the pressure to take on extra shifts rears its ugly head remember that it is okay to say no.

You don’t have to be busy or have plans, and you don’t have to take one for the team. Your time is sacred.

If you need time off for your mental health, an afternoon to yourself to catch up on work or a lie-in in the morning to get rid of a banging headache – do it!

Live your life the way you want to live it and have work be symbiotic with your ordinary life!

I’m not encouraging constantly calling in sick and slacking on your responsibilities but if this job is merely a source of extra income – you do not have to be a model employee. Be compassionate with yourself and your time.

Having a job can be the best thing ever, it can widen your horizons, provide a sense of routine and purpose and introduce you to new people – but remember to put yourself first!

Crossword answers: Across: 1) Polyamorous, 6) Affection, 8) Mug, 9) Catfish, 11) STI, 12) Mixer, 13) ILY, 14) Ghosting, 15) Tabs, 17) Smooch, 18) Bumble Down: 2) Official, 3) Met, 4) Own, 5) Situationship, 7) Cuffing, 10) Horoscope, 13) Into, 16) BYOB, 17) Sob

14

Epigram / Amy Hirtenstein

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mal life.

3. Don't be afraid to call in sick

lifestyle

Credit: Patrick Sullivan, Puzzles Editor

Valentine's crossword

Across

1 Able to be intimate with many people (11) 6 Feeling; endearment (9) 8 Love Island slang (3) 9 Not what they appear to be (7) 11 The last thing you want from a date (3) 12 Paired with spirit; social or party (5) 13 'I love you' message (3) 14 Horror dating app behaviour (8) 15 You may keep ___ on your exes (4) 17 Heavy kiss (6) 18 Feminist dating app (6)

Down

2 You know it's serious when it's Facebook ___ (8) 3 Encountered (3) 4 Possess; on your ___ (3) 5 Is it FWB or is it something more? (13) 7 Seasonal dating trend (7) 10 Reading found on back pages (9) 13 Are you ___ them? (4) 16 Date calls for a bottle of wine or beer (4) 17 Cry profusely (3)

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Secrets of the cosmos

The Croft’s resident clairvoyant explains what the stars have in store for you this Valentine's Day

Your romantic side is never far 22 from the surface, but you’re feeling the love more than ever this month. A surprise gift may be making its way to you, and if you’re dating, your partner goes above and beyond with a sweet gesture. If it’s a Galentine’s (or Brolentine’s??) day you’ve got planned, it’s sure to be a heartwarming occasion as the moon shines on your house of friendships.

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A host of planets heat up your 0 sign this month, and you’re feeling passionate. Even if you usually hate Valentine’s, this year you find yourself keen to make plans. You’re inspired to take a risk in love, whether it’s asking someone out, calling it quits on something that’s not working, or even (please proceed with caution) meeting up with an ex.

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D

Your confidence is blooming and you’re more than ready to get out and meet the whole of Bristol. Conversations flow effortlessly, and if you’re looking for love it’s likely to come from somewhere you wouldn’t expect: maybe someone you’re working on a project with, or end up sat next to on the bus.

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22 Decem ber

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22 Novem ber

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2

Mysteries of the heart reveal themselves over the Valentine’s weekend as the moon illuminates anything that’s been hidden.

You’re magnetic right now, so don’t be surprised if you’re overwhelmed with invitations – if it’s too much, take some time to yourself: those who really matter will wait – or just revel in the attention!

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23 Sept em be r-

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16

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You’ve got multiple suitors this month, but you’ve only got eyes for one. If you’ve been trying to win someone’s heart, the planets project an optimistic energy: the timings for you and your sweetheart finally fall into place. Growth is essential to your self-esteem right now, so make sure you take time to yourself to do what you love as well as being there for others.

Where relationships have felt up-in-the-air (thanks, Venus retrograde), things are clearer in time for the 14th. Boosting your feelings of self-worth is vital now: remember you need to be comfortable on your own before getting involved with someone else. It’s a great time to meet someone new, as a host of planets heat up your house of opportunity – equally, existing relationships gain new depth and passion.

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No

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Sc o rp 1

23 October - 2

Valentine’s is a very sexy day for you this year, with a collection of planets encouraging you to explore your sensual side and try something new. You’re after connection right now, and if you feel this is lacking, remember to communicate with those you love – no one can read your mind!

23 Aug

Ca n ce

21 June - 22 J uly

- 20

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Someone’s ready to show you, and the world, their love this Valentine’s. Luckily you’re keen on the spotlight, and where you’ve been feeling reclusive, you’re ready to leap back out of your shell. You love gifting, and whatever you give your sweetheart will be cherished: just remember there are other ways to show affection, so don’t be disappointed if your partner returns the favour in another love language.

Ge m Ju i

19

You’re oozing attraction right now, and if you’re single Valentine’s brings plentiful opportunities.

Someone you might’ve once dismissed could make a reappearance: maybe the timing will be right this time? If you’re in a relationship, things are reassuringly steady. Though you’re used to emotional rollercoasters, let yourself enjoy the comfort of stability!

ril Ap

Leo

23 July - 22 A ug u

21 May

ni

Your homely nature kicks in over the Valentine’s period as the moon crosses your house of familiarity, and any dates you’re headed on are low-key and relaxed. If you’re planning something– whether it’s a celebration of a relationship or a gathering of your best friends, make it a cosy night in so you can really feel the love.

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ay M

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T 20 a

20

You’re all about self-love and improvement this Valentine’s Day with the moon stirring up your house of health and routine.

Where you might’ve been feeling de- spondent in relationships, your mindset switches to optimism: a sweet comment from someone you haven’t considered a romantic option opens up an exciting new conversation.

Ari es

21 Marc h-

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20 Apr il -

Pi

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ru eb 8F

The temptation to push someone you really like away may strike this month. It’s good to take time for yourself, but don’t miss an opportunity! The moon is shining on your house of partnerships over the Valentine’s weekend, making now the time to take a leap and let someone know how you feel: don’t let fear hold you back!

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1

19 Februa ry -

Illustrations by Alice Proctor

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21 Jan uar y-