The Oxford Botanic Gardens

As places in Oxford go, the Botanic Gardens across from Magdalen College are a real jewel. They are peaceful, beautiful, intellectually engaging, and easily capable of yielding dozens of good photos, even if you have been there many times before.

During Oxford’s long winter, the greenhouses make for a particularly nice contrast both with the world outside and with each other. Some are arid and no warmer than the air outside (largely filled with interesting cacti); others are almost tropical in warmth and humidity and contain many plants normally seen only as foodstuffs – from coffee to black pepper, tea and ginger. Some of the flowers are also quite dramatic.

The gardens are free for students and university staff all year round, and simply open to everyone during the winter.

PS. The connector on my snazzy Ety headphones seems to be broken. Jostling it around even a little bit causes the sound to cut out on one side or the other. I will call them on Monday about having them repaired.

Author: Milan

In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. In the fall of 2005, I began reading for an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford. Outside school, I am very interested in photography, writing, and the outdoors. I am writing this blog to keep in touch with friends and family around the world, provide a more personal view of graduate student life in Oxford, and pass on some lessons I've learned here. View all posts by Milan