Canterbury, I love you.

Canterbury is known for its beauty; with its cobbled high streets, cute river and glorious cathedral - what's not to like? But for me, the city has something more than just physical beauty. 

After spending 3 years studying at the University of Kent (not to be confused with Canterbury Christchurch may I add!) I grew even more fond of the place. Needless to say I jump at every invite to go back and visit. Not only do I get to catch up with some amazing friends who are still living there, but I also get to relive my student years and pretend that I'm back where I belong! 

Having only graduated last summer, I'm practically still a student, but somehow I manage to feel so old every time I return. 

When I first moved home, I told myself I missed the freedom: doing what I wanted whenever I wanted, having more time than I knew what to do with and staying out until all hours without worrying about getting up for work at 6am. But after living at home like a 'grown up' for 6 months and then returning to this way of life, I somehow think I've changed my mind. 

The thought of living in student accommodation now makes me feel uneasy. Knowing that my warm cosy double bed, complete with all its springs, awaits me at home, in a spotless house (thanks to the fairies - aka mum and dad!) makes me feel so lucky, and I almost dread the thought of living like that again! 

However, I love that by visiting my friends I get to have my cake and eat it too. I can be with my girls again, just like old times and still pass as a student (I'm hoping I haven't aged dramatically since working in the city!). I get to revisit the good old Venue and have an amazingly cheap and hilarious night (my student card is still valid due to a mix up - loving life 2k14!) but still return to my safe boring routine at the end of it all. 

I also get to use a visit to Canterbury as a 'weekend away' as well as an excuse for catching up with friends. My most recent visit also included a first for me, as I visited the chocolate café with my lovely ex housemate and babe Emily. 

I had somehow managed to avoid this little gem of a place in my student years, probably moaning that I was too poor to indulge in cream tea (or getting more for my money on campus at Origins!) but if you ever take a visit to Canterbury I would thoroughly recommend. Tucked away in a corner of the city with gorgeous views of the side streets and an amazing menu, it's perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth! 

As much as I feel I'm outgrowing the student lifestyle and becoming a boring old woman, Canterbury will always have such a huge place in my heart. The memories that I made there, as well as the life long friendships, are ones which I will never forget, and for that reason I will always remain head over heels in love with 'Canters'.