Reading Breaks in Antigonish

Being in Antigonish during the breaks can be a strange experience. With the majority of students going home, campus has a different feel too normal. Residences are quiet, many places are shut, and meal hall hours are limited. Without a car, it can be difficult to travel very far. However, reading breaks can be an opportunity to explore Antigonish better, as well as relax with very few distractions. Here are a few ideas for international students (and other students who are staying) for ways to make the most of your reading weeks.

1.     Actually study- for people with midterms after the break, it can be easier to study when on campus. The library is pretty much empty, and residence lounges are silent, making it much easier to focus.

2.     Catch up on sleep- there are no parties happening.

3.     Try an escape room- Lost Realms (close to Tims and Needs) has escape rooms that can be fun to complete in groups. It is open until 5pm everyday (4pm on Sundays.) Since the semester can very busy, reading week is an ideal time to try this.

4.     Pick up extra shifts at work- since most students go home for the week, there should be a lot of extra hours.

5.     Go to the gym when it isn’t packed.

6.     Watch movies- Monty Python is great if you are wanting something funny.

7.     Residence and Bloomfield Hub activities- check your residence Instagram for activities happening during the week. Bloomfield Hub also offered craft nights and therapy dogs during the November reading break, which I really enjoyed.

8.     Exploring Main Street- there are some really cosy cafes there, which can make a nice change to study in. Also, the thrift store is cheap!

9.     Going on walks- I really enjoyed having time to walk around Antigonish during my break. If you can find a ride, Beaver Mountain Provincial Park, the Arisaig beach and Antigonish Landing are beautiful spots to visit.

10.  Visit Antigonish Farmer’s Market.

11.  Check and see if there are any performances happening at the Bauer theatre on campus- this is located just behind Mackinnon. Tickets are normally discounted for students, so reading break is a good time to see what is on offer!

12.  Use the ice rink during the free skate sessions- free for students.

13.  Cook with friends in my kitchen- since meal hall is so quiet during the breaks, it is a good time to make use of the space and try some new recipes.

14.  Start a new book- I'd recommend the Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (Taylor Jenkins Reid) or Daisy Jones and the Six (by the same author.) Daisy Jones also has a TV show on Amazon Prime now!

15.  Call friends and family back home- I find it hard to call often when things get busy, so make the most of the free time.

I hope this list helps make your next break in Antigonish more enjoyable!