Dorset 2011
In July 2011 we visited Dorset with a group of about 20 international students from Europe, America, and Asia. We stayed at Sandyholme, comfortable and picturesque accommodation conveniently located near Swanage's sandy beaches.
The weather was impeccably sunny. Cloudless skies nearly everyday meant we had a chance to play volleyball on the beach or watch boats on the water while we lunched al fresco at the local pub. One day we walked down the nearby coastal path to view the chalk cliffs of Old Harry. Another day we drove to Worth Matravers, a quintessential little English village, and explored its dramatic coastline. We conducted a short optional service at St Aldhelm's Chapel, an 800 year old structure perched on the cliff-top. On our return to the village, we discovered we had serendipitously visited on the day of the village fête organized to raise money for the church organ. So we mingled with the village people over cream tea and live music.
Our evenings were both entertaining and thoughtful. A murder mystery, set in Hollywood, helped us get to know each other on our first night. The comical scenarios we invented supplied running gags for the rest of the trip. A film viewing and discussion gave us a chance to share the perspectives of different disciplines and faiths as we considered 'visions of the good life'. Discussion on that and other subjects often continued in the kitchen or at the beach.
One participant said, 'I thoroughly enjoyed the open-minded philosophical discussions that I was able to have with members of the group on a variety of issues ranging from relativity and quantum-mechanics to human relationships and faith'. Another kindly reported, 'From hot chocolate to volley ball to projector, the trip had everything one could ask for!'