The cure for 'Blue Monday' is a university break, says expert

Jan. 16, 2025 - PRLog -- 20 January is 'Blue Monday', supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Academics reportedly calculated this based on factors such as back-to-work blues, bad weather, post-Christmas debts and all those broken New Year Resolutions.

Lily Smith, a leading tourism expert from UniversityRooms.com, says: 'We all need something to boost our spirits at this time of the year. Following the expense of Christmas, it's even better if we can find a bargain. While summer feels a long way off, April will be upon us before we know it and it is an excellent time for a break, either in the UK or somewhere a little warmer, such as Spain.

'The UK is actually a great place for a staycation in April. While the UK only averages 1.8 hours of sunshine a day in dreary January, that figure goes up to 7.8 hours a day in April (based on 2020 figures).

'If you're thinking of budget holiday accommodation, many UK universities offer inexpensive and uniquely atmospheric locations. To give just one example, this March and April the award-winning St Catharine's College in Cambridge has dates available. It recently won Cambridge's coveted Overnight Accommodation Best Overall Customer Experience Award. That's not surprising. Over the past few years, the college has invested over £30 million into enhancing its facilities, prioritising accessibility and sustainability, making it a fantastic choice for visitors to Cambridge.

'Located in the very heart of the historic city, St Catharine's is the perfect place to stay for a true Cambridge student experience. Rooms (https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/cambridge/coll...) are available in March and April from £110 a night, including bed and breakfast. That sounds something to look forward to in the depths of January.

'Cambridge is undoubtedly a beautiful city but, if you fancy somewhere a little warmer as a cure for Blue Monday, then Spain could be the answer. It offers bargain-priced accommodation in a number of universities in April, and Accuweather is currently predicting highs of 22 degrees in Valencia.

'Valencia is located on the east coast of the Iberian Peninsula. This popular tourist destination, which dates back to Roman times, features some famous medieval buildings. It also boasts bars, clubs and beaches and is a great place for foodies, being the home of the paella.

'You can stay at the Colegio Mayor Galileo Galilei, a student residence located at the Polytechnic University of Valencia. This campus is considered to be one of the best in Spain. Most rooms have balconies and air conditioning and all have ensuite facilities and internet connection. Rooms (https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/valencia/colle...) are available from £70.88 a night.

'You can find out more about staying at a Spanish university campus at https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/countries/ES