Categories
North America

Oxford

Stepping into Oxford felt like entering a living museum—centuries of history woven seamlessly into a vibrant, modern city. My visit to the Bodleian Library was nothing short of magical, surrounded by towering bookshelves and the quiet hum of knowledge. Evenings were spent indulging in incredible food, from flavorful Indian dishes to a perfectly crafted gyro, and a refined meal at Brasserie Blanc. But the true highlight? An unforgettable night at the New Oxford Theatre, where The Transatlantic Sessions filled the air with soul-stirring melodies. Add in a stay at The Malmaison, a former prison turned boutique hotel, and some retail therapy at Westgate Oxford, and it was the perfect getaway. I can’t wait to return—hopefully in warmer weather!

A Cozy Getaway to Oxford: Books, Music, and Incredible Food

Oxford has always been on my list of places to visit, and I finally had the chance to experience it firsthand. From historic libraries to delicious meals, world-class music, and a unique hotel stay, this trip had everything I could have hoped for.

A Literary Pilgrimage: The Bodleian Library

As a book lover, no visit to Oxford would be complete without stepping into the iconic Bodleian Library. Walking through its grand halls, surrounded by centuries of history, felt like stepping into another world. The architecture, the weight of knowledge stored within its walls, and the sheer sense of history made this an unforgettable stop.

A Foodie’s Delight: Indian, Gyros, and Brasserie Blanc

Oxford’s food scene did not disappoint. I indulged in some fantastic Indian cuisine—rich curries, fragrant rice, and perfectly spiced dishes that warmed me up in the cool weather. A gyro stop added another layer to the culinary experience, with tender meat, fresh toppings, and that unmistakable garlic sauce. To top it all off, dinner at Brasserie Blanc was a highlight—delicious French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting, making for a perfect evening meal.

A Night of Unforgettable Music: The Transatlantic Sessions

One of the biggest highlights of the trip was seeing The Transatlantic Sessions at the New Oxford Theatre. The blend of Celtic and Americana music was nothing short of magical. The talent on stage, the passion in the performances, and the incredible musicianship made for a mesmerizing evening. It was the kind of concert that stays with you long after the final note fades.

A Stay Behind Bars: The Malmaison Hotel

One of the most unique parts of this trip was my stay at The Malmaison Hotel, which is housed in a former prison. The transformation from jail to luxury boutique hotel is impressive—the rooms have kept elements of the original structure, making for an atmospheric and unforgettable experience. It’s not every day you can say you spent the night in a prison cell and loved it!

A Little Retail Therapy: Westgate Oxford

No trip is complete without a little shopping, and Westgate Oxford provided the perfect opportunity. From high-end brands to unique finds, I enjoyed browsing and picking up a few things to remember this trip by.

Traveling in Style: United Business Class

Traveling business class on United both ways made the journey even more enjoyable. Comfortable seats, great service, and some much-needed rest ensured I arrived relaxed and ready to explore.

Final Thoughts

Oxford exceeded my expectations in every way. The mix of history, culture, music, and incredible food made for an unforgettable trip. While the weather was on the colder side, it only added to the charm—but next time, I’d love to visit when it’s a bit warmer. Until then, I’ll be reminiscing about the meals, the music, and the magic of this incredible city.

Leave a comment