Finding your nook

Posted by admin on Nov 18, 2008 in Community | 0 comments

As the rainy season starts to roll in and papers begin to overwhelm us, it’s easy to lose momentum. Over the last four years I’ve resisted noticing the obvious effects of this dreadful period. Walking across campus on most rainy afternoons I often sense I’ve walked onto the set of a bad zombie movie. I am positive there is nothing worse than staring at the same books day after day as the rain attacks your spirit like a plague. So what can you do to get your head out of the murkiness? Simple: get out and escape. Grab the next bus or carpool and find some ambiance that is worthy of your academic wanderings. One golden rule on the study habits of the wise is that there is nothing more refreshing than a change of scenery.

It required some stressful research techniques, but I have come up with a few out-of-the-way places that are sure to pick you right up. So get out from behind your desk and enjoy one of these hideaways, perfect for an afternoon study session or a relaxing evening out.

Wired Monk: on the Corner of 184th St. & 64th Ave., Surrey
With cozy corners, a fireplace and a bar next to the barista this is an ideal cafe to spread out. The lighting and mood are always warm and the staff is exceptionally friendly. So order a Milky Way, find a spot of your own and enjoy the soothing atmosphere.

Dublin Crossing: 101-18789 Fraser Hwy., Surrey
There is no place with more character than Dublin Crossing. Though the evenings tend to draw in more business along with live Irish music, the afternoons produce the essence of comfort. Come into this neighbourhood pub any time after they open and you will find a number of welcoming corners to choose from. The service is friendly yet not assuming, and the food is the stuff legends are made of.

Shaky Monkey: 11-20349 88 Ave., Langley
Unlike the busy bustle of your local Starbucks, Shaky Monkey gives you a unique, bright and low-key atmosphere to settle down. They not only have comfortable couches and a large fireplace, but also a mouth-watering selection of scones and fairtrade organic fresh roasted coffee.

Wired Monk: 60th Ave. & 168th St., Surrey
Recently opened, the Wired Monk at 5 Corners is run out of a beautiful historical home. There are multiple rooms with comfortable furniture and a collection of local artwork. The house is reminiscent of an old bed and breakfast, providing that homey feeling that will make studying relaxing and almost pleasurable. If you seek more solitude, then venture downstairs where you’ll find a private room. Put your feet up, order a Panini and dive into those books.

City Blendz Coffee: 5765 Glover Rd., Langley
Located just down Glover Road from Trinity Western University, City Blendz is an ideal place to camp out during finals. There are many different chairs and tables to hunker down at. One key feature is the lack of distractions. From the time they open in the morning until about 4 p.m., the coffee shop stays relatively quiet. And of course there are their Mocha Whips, which are bound to cure any gloomy demeanor.

So this season resist the temptation to stay bottled up in your room, and experience what our local community has to offer in study spots. Along with coffee shops and pubs there are also numerous local libraries that provide an assortment of quiet, study spaces. Some close to TWU are the Fort Langley Library, Muriel Arnason Library, Walnut Grove Library and the Langley Centre Library.