It's been a pretty stressful time here recently. There's been colleges to pick, coursework to redraft and, of course, the ever present dramas of being a teenager. Perhaps then, that is why it was such a relief to simply pack up and go this half term.

Before you get excited (or jealous), I wasn't exactly headed anywhere exotic. After four hours on a train, I arrived in the glamorous Luton. For those of you that don't know, Luton is more famous for its airport, which featured in a TV show detailing the daily problems facing airport staff, than white sandy beaches and celebrities. It is, however, home to my grandparents.

Although my friends seemed surprised to hear it, I did manage to make it to London by myself without getting lost or as my- so -called - best friend suggested, finding myself in Glasgow.

It was, as they say, a flying visit. For three days, I found myself 'forgetting' all about the essay that needed redrafting, and watching the finest daytime television had to offer. In between episodes of Loose Women, I did manage a visit to Broadstairs and Canterbury. Broadstairs, a picturesque beach town that Charles Dickens' chose as his workplace,provided ample photo opportunity and the chance for what had to be the unhealthiest and consequently most delicious hot chocolate I had ever had.

It wasn't until we reached Canterbury that I seriously considered staying down south for the foreseeable future however.It is home to the curious mix of historical architecture and the modern businesses only a university town can offer. Add a selection of my favourite high street shops into the equation and I will happily move there tomorrow.

All too soon, I was forced to return to the world of Macbeth, equations and ridiculously complicated chemistry homework. At least, there was a little less stress ( and a new handbag) in my life after my exotic holiday.