Hi! My name is Molly and since July, I have been working as a translation intern at Sprachenfabrik as part of my degree course in Modern Languages at Durham University.

The opportunity to spend an extended period of time abroad has given me the chance to not only explore a different culture, but also to reflect upon that of my own country, England, and more specifically my county, Wiltshire.

Wiltshire is quintessentially English: full of picturesque villages with thatched cottages, farms and beautiful countryside. It is famed for its idyllic views and an abundance of areas to walk – even in the rainy months, walkers will be seen making their way around the White Horses on the downs, walking sections of the 87 mile Ridgeway pass, a route used since prehistoric times, or taking in the breathtaking views of the Cotswolds. The county has its own cycle route, The Wiltshire Cycle Way, which I cycled with my dad a couple of years ago. It was very hilly – much to my horror – but the view from the top made it worth it! The route passes through Salisbury Plain, which is used as a military training ground and is also a stunning place to visit, although the sights and sounds of army tanks may initially put you off!

Wiltshire is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site in the form of Stonehenge and Avebury. These Neolithic monuments are hugely popular tourist attractions and places of religious importance for the Druid and Pagan community. Every year on the day of the Summer Solstice, thousands of people gather at the two sites to celebrate the longest day and watch the sunrise. The pictures always look so magical and it is definitely on my bucket list to go one year!

There are many sites in Wiltshire which are well worth a visit, such as Salisbury Cathedral. This famous cathedral has the tallest church spire in the UK and an original copy of the Magna Carta is situated within the cathedral grounds. Another town to take a look at is Cricklade, the first town on the Thames; it is an unspoiled town where a rare flower, the Snakeshead Fritillary, blooms each year – with the backdrop of the church, it is a must for nature enthusiasts.

It is safe to say that upon arrival in Germany I was (and still am) very happy with the amount of sun in comparison to home and am fully taking advantage of it! I was also very amused on seeing a red English telephone box in the Altstadt! My time exploring Bielefeld’s culture so far has been wonderful and I am absolutely delighted with the array of cafés and bakeries. As of yet, I have only just touched upon the area’s history by visiting Sparrenburg and a couple of museums, however over the course of the next 5 months, I fully intend to delve deeper into Bielefeld’s rich culture and heritage!