Stoke is a fantastic city in which to study. Not only is it the heartbeat of the North-West Midlands, but it's also situated almost exactly between Manchester and Birmingham - two of the top party-towns in Britain.

But to have a good time, you really don't have to look to far. There is a great array of student pubs and clubs, and the student unions of the two universities are never dull. In the last few years, such great bands as Sister Sledge (great!), Bronski Beat, D-Ream and Bucks Fizz have played in Stoke as well as some of the "lesser" bands like Oasis, Blur and Jamiroquai.

Not only has Stoke given unto the world such luminaries as Robbie Williams, Nick Hancock and Anthea Turner but it has also brought the word "duck" into the English language as a term of endearment. Many is the time that on the local bus (or buzz as the locals call it) the driver will ask - "where to duck?" - the stock response being "Hanley duck".

Hanley is the jewel in the crown of sunny Stoke - the commercial hub of the area, as sort of town built for the express purpose of shopping. Many are the lost souls who wander aimlessly through endless shopping precincts looking for that elusive Pokemon card on an early Saturday evening.

No matter what time of year, it is always raining in Stoke - Fact. But, the locals are always cheerful and helpful as long as you don't mention the fact that you're a student. Just adopt the accent and an ability to eat oatcakes without choking and you'll have the time of your life.