Writing a thesis is no small task. The final semester of the master’s programme is different from the rest. You need to put into practice everything you’ve learned in the research methods courses, set your own schedule and make sure to follow your supervisor’s deadlines. Thesis writing is a rollercoaster of emotions; some days you feel on top of the world, certain of how to proceed and how to deal with your data. The rest of the time, you forget which day or week it is and your laptop becomes both your best friend and your worst enemy.
That is exactly why small breaks are essential. Uppsala is beautiful but it’s worth visiting other places too. Stockholm is always a good option but if you are looking for a quiet nature escape, perhaps lake Ekoln is a great alternative. Ekoln is only 10 kilometers away from Uppsala and you can either hike there or take bus number 11. The views are stunning and constantly change with the weather. For example, my friends and I went there one foggy morning and it felt like stepping into a mystery film. Ekoln is worth visiting in summer too or as soon as the weather gets warmer.
If you feel like travelling a bit further, I recommend visiting Öregrund, a coastal city by the Baltic Sea. The bus ride lasts about an hour and a half and it’s perfect for a day of sea views, pretty wooden houses, and fresh air. You can also take the free ferry and visit the Gräsö island, just five minutes away. My friend and I went hiking there and even before everything blossomed, it was beautiful. I can only imagine how much more beautiful it will be once everything turns green.
Lastly, if you have more days to spare, you can find cheap flights or ferries to other Baltic countries. Tallinn is a city I recommend visiting as it offers both a medieval old town and a modern vibe. Take your time to walk through the cobblestone streets and enter one of the many souvenir shops. Let your mind wander around the traditional houses and multiple churches and forget all about studying.
Once you’re back in Uppsala, you will be more refreshed and ready to dive into studying. Remember that studying in Uppsala isn’t just about academic work, but also about experiencing a new culture and exploring new places. Let yourself take breaks and enjoy those moments to escape from academic writing and data analysis. You never know how much inspiration and motivation a short escape can bring.