Study Overseas

The West Coast of America has long been a popular study destination for international students. The West Coast's businesses and international links, cutting-edge research in technology and varied natural attractions are amongst many reasons why international students now call the West Coast their home. Studying in America takes you down the sandy coastline for a tour of the West Coast's major cities.

SEATTLE, Washington
Population: 578,700

Sights: If you watch Frasier or Grey's Anatomy then you should recognise Space Needle, one of Seattle's most iconic landmarks. Built for the 1962 World's Fair and standing at 605 feet high, Space Needle is not in fact Seattle's tallest structure, though many believe it is. Scale the heights to the observation deck for views of the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mouth Baker, Elliot Bay and beyond.

Things to do: Try something different and visit Seattle's Museum of Glass. You can watch the fascinating process of glassmaking and marvel at the contemporary works on display. Check out the enormous 90-foot steel cone in the centre of the building and the beautiful Bridge of Glass.

Nights Out: Get the full Seattle experience at Ray's Boathouse on Seaview Avenue. Feast your eyes not only on the food; the views of the mountains and water are spectacular. The seafood here is wonderfully fresh and tasty.

PORTLAND, Oregon
Population: 562,690

Sights: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry on the east bank of the Willamette River is a first-rate technology, space and earth sciences museum with many tactile exhibits. Here you will find an OMNIMAX Theatre, an earthquake simulator, a planetarium and the USS Blueback (SS-581) submarine that you may recognise from the film, The Hunt for Red October.

Things to Do: Visit America's 16st city park, Forest Park, which covers more than 5000 acres. If you're feeling energetic, there are 40 miles of hiking and trails to explore, or if a gentle jog is more your style then there are routes for runners to follow. Only 10 minutes from downtown and you're in an urban oasis that extends as far as the eye can see.

Eating Out: If you like your food fresh as a daisy and in arty surroundings then Hands on Café if for you. The on-site craft shop and gallery are fitting for the café's location, which is at the Oregon College of Arts and Crafts. The food is handcrafted too and there are daily specials that are popular with students and locals alike.

SAN JOSE, California
Population: 912, 332

Sights: The Winchester Mansion or 'Mystery House' as it is known is every child's dream. With secret passages, windows that open onto brick walls, staircases that lead to the ceiling and doors that open onto walls, this quirky house is an architectural phenomenon. The house was built for Sarah L. Winchester who was convinced that the ghosts of people killed with her husband's Winchester rifles were going to haunt her until the house was completed - construction went on for over 30 years.

Things to Do: Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum houses the 16st collection of Egyptian antiquities in the West Coast of America. Architecturally, the museum is modelled on the Temple of Amon at Karnak and has its own life-sized ancient Egyptian burial vault. Students get discounted entrance.

Night out: If you're in downtown then you should pay a visit to the Gordon Biersch Restaurant where you will find an eclectic menu, outdoor seating and a good choice of German ales and lagers. There is a lively atmosphere, especially at weekends.

LOS ANGELES, California
Population: 3,844,829

Sights: The Getty Center is a 110-acre complex situated in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. Get in for free and visit one of America's most exquisite art collections. The gardens are delightful and the architecture itself an artwork. Grauman's Chinese Theatre has seen more Hollywood premieres than any other theatre and is one of the most ornately decorated too. Foot and handprints of the stars greet you on arrival and a 30-foot dragon watches you as you enter.

Things to do: For an adrenaline fix, Universal Studios is a must. There are a huge variety of rides to choose from and attractions from all of your favourite movies.

Eating Out: If you like fast food then you must go to an In-n-Out Burger restaurant. These family-run businesses only use fresh ingredients and prepare the food on-site. The burgers are delicious, be sure to order yours 'animal-style' and you'll get grilled onions and a secret tangy sauce on top.

SAN DIEGO, California
Population: 1,256,509

Sights: Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the intrepid explorer, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo who discovered San Diego Bay and the West Coast back in 1542. The idyllic location offers breathtaking views of the city and neighbouring Mexico as well as Old Point Loma Lighthouse and the impressive Cabrillo Statue itself.

Things to Do: Get acquainted with the local marine life on a Whale Watching tour on H & M Landing. From December to March go on a three or five-hour excursion to see the Grey Whales on their return to the waters off Southern California. The whales come right up to the boat and if you don't happen to see any, you can go again for free.

Eating Out: Carrying on the fishy theme, the place to go to for fresh fish is Anthony's Fish Grotto. This place is actually three restaurants in one; Fish Grotto, The Star of the Sea and the Fishette. The prices are reasonable and the portions hearty, but if you're in a hurry, go to the Fishette for some fast fish food.