July 01, 2011

Reports back on his trip to mighty Manchester


Looking down from high above, the city was quiet at night. The traffic’s warm light illuminating here and there. Near the brick-walled buildings, among the blackened leafless trees, the natural panorama, blue and almost brown coloured, looked so calm on a winter night. Thanks to the large windows in the ninth floor, Leftbank apartment, the view over Manchester was so clear and extended toward the horizon.

Although there was no snow falling these days, you could feel it was still freezing if the window was open. The nights seemed to be longer during those winter days as it was still dark at eight in the morning.

Heading to the office, your eyes would catch sight of the great number of pedestrians. They seemed to be everywhere, walking out from the tarmac lanes, rolling through the open squares, rushing out from the glass halls of the coffee bars and markets, hovering about the bus stops. The pale climate was emphasised by the dark colours of the long coats, scarves, suitcases and other kinds of paraphernalia. The most exciting way to start the morning was having a tall Cappuccino from Starbuck’s and a morning newspaper, which you could pick up along the streets.

Working in the office of A was most exciting. They were professional colleagues who were really concentrating on their work, helping each other and so open to conversation. The coffee breaks, games of pool or darts were so cheerful there.

With the global affects, you would shrink in shock to see the empty spaces in the UK offices, vacant office space as large as our Happy Valley. Do not be too worried, the survivors will be the strongest and they will still be standing. Please be optimistic and look ahead to the opportunities that are coming.

The night started right after working hours. A few steps from the office front hall you could find a nice bar open until late at night. Be careful with the bitter of the Guinness draught, or the sweetness of the Magnum Scottish cider. If you are not one for liquid partying, you can have a night out at the movies in one of the Odeon cinemas. It is normal to go there alone so don’t hesitate if you haven’t got a partner. It is such a good opportunity to get a different experience there.

In Manchester there is no tube like in London. You can choose either the tram or bus systems to travel around Manchester. The speed is so remarkable, the routes are so simple and easy to find. Maybe you will be a little bit confused with the automatic ticket vending machines and which side of the station to be on to get the right shutter doors. You will hear people singing out loud on the tram after football matches, which are popular with the city having the two largest football clubs called the Red and the Blue.

Manchester city has a lot of restaurants, bars, coffee booths and shopping malls. Beside these, there are some special places worth going such as the Old Trafford Stadium, the circular Central Library, or the Science and Industry Museum. They are stunning and large enough to take up your whole day.

When you are there make sure you have a good plan and do not forget the warm coats, unless you’re a polar bear!! The temperature will suddenly drop down at night and freezing winds can hit you. The snow may be your expectation but don’t bank on it.