Describe a public place, such as a park or square, that you like to visit.

There’s a small riverside park not far from where I live, about a ten-minute walk from my apartment, and it’s probably my favourite public place in the whole city. It’s tucked just behind a busy main road, but as soon as you go through the iron gate you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world, with trees arching over the paths and the river flowing quietly alongside.

I’d say I go there three or four times a week, depending on my schedule. During exam periods I might only pop in for a quick walk in the evening, but when I’m less busy I often spend whole Sunday mornings there, just taking my time and wandering around.

When I’m there, I usually follow the same little routine. First, I walk along the riverside path and listen to a podcast or some music. Then I sit on my favourite bench, which has a great view of a small fountain and a flowerbed, and I read or do a bit of journaling. Sometimes I take a takeaway coffee, and if I’m with friends we just sit on the grass, chat about life, and people-watch. In the spring, I also like taking photos of the cherry blossoms because they’re absolutely stunning.

I’m particularly fond of this place because it gives me a sense of calm that I struggle to find elsewhere in the city. It’s not just peaceful; it also feels safe and welcoming, with all kinds of people enjoying the same space. To be honest, whenever I feel stressed or stuck, a short visit there clears my head and helps me put things into perspective, so it’s become almost like my personal sanctuary.