My Nottingham
From the legendary outlaw Robin Hood to the rebel writers who shaped our literary heritage, Nottingham has always been a place for innovative thinkers. With the city securing recognition as a UNESCO City of Literature – one of only 17 cities worldwide – there's no better time to return to the city to continue your Nottingham tale...
1. Take a trip down memory lane
The first stop on any trip has to be to our stunning campuses. Take in the rolling parkland of University Park, the innovative architecture of Jubilee Campus and the calm tranquillity of Sutton Bonington. Revisit favourite student haunts, peer inside your halls of residence and stop for a drink (or two) in the student bar. Organising a reunion is a great way to get your University friends together – and our alumni team offer a bespoke service to help you organise your own event.
2. In the footsteps of rogues
Fire up your imagination at Nottingham Castle – with sieges, murders, riots and intrigue to rival
Game of Thrones, the history of our most famous landmark will shock and enthral. Head underground to discover a hidden world under the streets. Dating back to Anglo-Saxon times, Nottingham's caves have been used as dwellings, air raid shelters – and secret hiding places for generations of villains.
Further afield, take a tour of Newstead Abbey – the ancestral home of Lord Byron – and discover the life and times of the infamous Romantic poet. Over in Eastwood, you can visit the family home of alumnus and novelist D.H. Lawrence, and explore the settings from his novels. And don't forget to stop off at Wollaton Hall – AKA Batman's House – before you leave the city.
3. Unleash your inner foodie
Teeming with boutique cafes and sumptous restaurants, Nottingham is a haven for foodies. Fine dining enthusiasts will find exceptional service at restaurants such as Tom Browns and Hart's – and a visit to two-Michelin starred Sat Bains is not to missed. For a taste of Nottingham's renowned international cuisine, try tapas at Iberico, rustic French dining at Le Bistrot Pierre, and curry at Calcutta Club.
In such a historic city, it would be amiss not to mention some of Nottingham's oldest eateries. One of the few remaining Victorian music halls still in operation, the Malt Cross offers homemade food and its own blend of coffee. And who could forget Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem – follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and pop in for a pint.
4. Go independent at the Broadway Cinema
Find cinematic stories to thrill and enthral at the much-loved Broadway Cinema in Hockley.
With a screen room themed by Nottingham designer Sir Paul Smith and a tempting cafe-bar, it's the ideal place to unwind and relax after a day walking around the city.
5. Rest easy at our eco-hotel
Opened in 2012, the University's eco-friendly Orchard Hotel features innovative architecture, state-of-the-art technology and stunning views of University Park Campus.
With exclusive discounts only available to alumni, there's nowhere better to rest your head.
My Ningbo
Ningbo is one of the fastest developing cities in China, with one of the largest ports in the world. Home to over seven million people, it is also said to be one of the happiest cities! Connected to Shanghai and Hangzhou by a high-speed rail link, there's lots to enjoy in this growing and vibrant city...
1. Immerse yourself on campus
Take a stroll by the lake, enjoy the lush green spaces and stop a while by the Administration Building (a replica of the Trent Building at University Park) to appreciate the beautiful Chinese gardens. With lots of restaurants, cafes and shops on campus, there's plenty to explore.
2. Unwind in the Tianyi Pavilion Library
Famed as the oldest existing library in China, Tianyi Pavilion Library (or Tian Yi Ge) is home to many rare and priceless volumes and collections, many from the Ming Dynasty. Situated in the middle of downtown, visitors can enjoy the tranquil gardens, impressive architecture and courtyards. Look carefully and you can find a mahjong board and golden palanquin hidden in the different ancient pavilions.
3. Hits the shops
Head to Wanda Plaza, Tianyi Square or New Oriental Plaza for international brands like Zara, UniQlo and H&M, alongside top Chinese outlets. For high fashion, Heyi Avenue is the place to go for Dior, Armani and Hugo Boss – or go bargain hunting in the traditional markets for accessories, jewellery, clothes and antiques.
4. Try Lao Waitan for an evening out
Take a trip to Ningbo's 'Old Bund' and find international pubs and bars by the riverside. Studio and Bass Clef host live music, or you can dance the night away at Le Cargo or Wonderland.
Across the river, stop for a drink or bite to eat on Heyi Avenue and enjoy Ningbo's dancing fountains. If karaoke is your pleasure, then you're well placed to belt out a tune with KTV's on most street corners.
My Kuala Lumpur
Anyone lucky enough to study at UNMC will know that it is just 30km from Malaysia’s vibrant capital city, Kuala Lumpur. This vibrant city is a bustling metropolis of different cultures and communities, a diversity reflected in its rich cuisines and attractions. With great sights, lovely parks, fantastic shopping and fascinating museums, whether you’re staying for just one day or longer, there’s lots to see and do.
1. Re-discover life on campus
With over 5,000 students now living and studying on campus, if you haven’t been back to UNMC for a while, you’ll notice some changes. Our Student Association Building has recently been extended and renovated, including an indoor and outdoor food court with offerings to suit all tastes. Take a look at the social and learning hubs - perfect places in which to relax and catch up with friends old and new.
2. Get a head for heights at the Petronas Towers
A trip to Kuala Lumpur is sure to include a visit to the Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin buildings in the world and an iconic KL landmark.
At sunset, head to the observation deck at the top or walk the dazzling Skybridge that connects the two towers for breaktaking views across the city – be sure to book ahead as tickets are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Wander among the birds
Touted as the world's largest free-flight walk-in aviary, relax after a busy day's shopping on the Bintang Walk in KL's glittering air-conditioned malls and bustling traditional markets, with a trip to the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.
Get close to nature and enjoy the peace in the lush, green valley. If you have time, pop to the orchid and butterfly parks opposite.
4. Tempt your tastebuds
From tasty local street food to restaurants with a view, you'll be spoilt for choice on where to dine.
Fusing culinary influences from all parts of Asia, head to Jalan Alor for delicious and affordable street food. Malay favourites include Hokkien Mee (either pork or squid with noodles) and Nasi Dagang (a fish curry with coconut rice). Or head to Nasi Kandar Pelita after visiting the Petronas Towers for authentic Malay dishes and flavours.
