Life in Cork: our two cents!

When I told my friends and family of my move to Cork I was met with resounding positivity and fantastic stories, what to do and where to go and see. Most of all I was told “you will absolutely love it”. Cork has lived up to and exceeded these high expectations more than I could have anticipated. No two weekends are the same as there is always somewhere or something new to get stuck into!

Aaron

It didn’t take me long to fall in love with Cork. The city has a vibrant arts and music scene - there is almost always a festival going on! And if you venture outside of the city there are loads of beaches nearby and plenty of fantastic hiking.

Tiffany

As a former student and current staff member of UCC I can say that it is a great place to both study and work. Nestled in among the trees next to the River Lee the setting for BEES is truly idyllic. Close enough to the city centre to access everything you might need but also feeling close to nature, it’s the best of both worlds! Cork is also a really wonderful place to live, small enough to get around easily, big enough to have lots to explore, and the perfect starting point to explore the rest of our beautiful country!

Jess

Cork is a city for everyone. Walking down the streets you can hear different languages being spoken or sang, meet people of various nations and religions and taste delicacies from all over the world. The best thing is that all of these are within just walking distances from each other and from UCC, making day to day life here vibrant and exciting. Maybe it is because of the closeness of everything, people here are so warm and welcoming that gives a sense of belonging to anyone with any cultural background.

Zixiao

Before living in Cork I had never resided in another place than my home country. I don't regret the choice I made to live in a small sized city as a first experience abroad. Cork is a lively charming city with an interesting history and geological heritage; it is walkable and close to many natural sites.  

The School of BEES is located on the northern bank of the River Lee, and along a superb sandstone outcrop. I like the fact that living and working in a city doesn't preclude from enjoying nature and green spaces. The School is located a few minutes from the city centre, which is very convenient for after work shopping and socializing.

Aude

Cork people may disagree, when I describe Cork as Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way. In fact this scenic road starts at famous Old Head Kinsale and follows the coastline including most peninsulas up to the very North of Ireland. There are more than 160 signature points aside the road, that guides you through regional culture, history, nature or offers you at least a stunning viewpoint. To keep those beautiful memories alive and to add a “collection character” you can get a passport and individual stamps for every discovery point from the local post offices. In County Cork highlights include Inchydoney beach, Mizen Head bridge, Lough Hyne or Dursey sound. 

Grab a car and keep an eye out for the rusty wave sign and follow the magical roughness of the Wild Atlantic!

Daniel

Cork city is big enough to find pretty much any shop, café or business that you're looking for, but small enough to run into at least one person that you know, every time you leave the house. And Ireland is small enough to feel like home, but big enough to find remote places to get lost in.

Hannah

After moving to Cork I was surprised to find so much wildlife within the city, with otters and herons populating the River Lee up by North Mall Campus. With loads to see and do in such a small city, adjusting to life in Cork has been easy. The beer gardens, local scenery and beaches make Cork one of my favourite places to live.

 Dan

I will try to keep my view as objective as possible as I am a Cork native! I love how Cork city has everything that a larger city has, but it is scaled down, making it accessible and friendly.

Having studied / worked in BEES for over ten years now, I always appreciate the lovely work environment and helpful staff.

Naomi

I love Cork. It’s the sort of place where you CAN have it all – the buzz of a university town but with the countryside and the sea on your doorstep. Great food, music and so easy to get out into nature.

Maria