Restrictions here in Manchester have now been all but lifted, finally! And, here at Manchester Young Professionals, we’re excited to be able to return to the city and explore everything that makes it the best place in the country (ok, we might be a little biased!).
Bars and restaurants are reopening properly, museums and galleries are welcoming people back in, and pretty soon we’ll all be heading to the Etihad or Old Trafford every other Saturday. Isn’t it exciting?!
While we might be excited and eager to get stuck in once again, we have to recognise there is going to be some anxiety about returning to normal. After all, we have just spent the best part of 500 or so days locked down, unable to go out.
In today’s blog, we’re going to be looking at just that topic and talking about returning to the city, how people who are a little nervous can get back to Manchester safely, and the long-awaited return of our famous in-person MYP events.
For years here at Manchester Young Professionals, we have been working on cultivating a community of like-minded individuals in their 20s and 30s. From in-person events that allow people to come together and network to our online talks with industry experts – we have done it all.
If you’re interested in connecting with people who are climbing the career ladder, and want to attend events that are fun, educational, and relaxed, then get in touch! We’re always looking to grow our community, to learn more, follow us on Instagram and sign up for our newsletter to be among the first to hear about our upcoming events.
Firstly, It’s Ok To Be Anxious!
As well as a troublesome cough, fever, and shortness of breath, another second-hand symptom of Covid is anxiety. The theory around this came about when two scientists – Ana Nikčević, of Kingston University, and Marcantonio Spada, at London South Bank University – began noticing that people were starting to exhibit signs of anxiety and obsessiveness.
They dubbed it ‘Covid Anxiety Syndrome’ and one of the many symptoms is the avoidance of public places, such as cities like Manchester.
All of this is to say that if you’re feeling anxious about returning to Manchester it’s to be expected and, very likely, you’re not the only one feeling it.
Are You Ready To Return To Manchester? Here Are Some Tips If You’re Feeling Anxious
If you’re feeling anxious then we have some good news! Not only are cases decreasing as vaccination rates increase but we’ve also compiled a few ways that you can enjoy the city to the fullest, even if you’re still a little anxious about things. After all, this is a positive, exciting time and we want everyone to have their own slice of fun!
So, if you are missing Manchester, and do want to head into the city, fears and anxiety taken into account, then here are some things you can do to enjoy this wonderful place safely.
Start Small
You don’t have to spend your first day back in the city walking around the Arndale Centre shopping, or heading to the busiest bars and restaurants in the city. Start small, hop off the train or park your car and take a leisurely stroll around one of Manchester’s neighbourhoods. Ancoats, for instance, is much quieter than the centre of town. As well as plenty of outdoor space, there is the beautiful Islington Marina where you can sit and meet friends safely, without worrying about being close to people. Work your way up to the bigger things, there’s no rush, just take your time and go to places at your own pace, when you feel ready.
Head To Green Spaces
Manchester is packed with green spaces, from Sackville gardens in the Gay Village to Angel Meadows in the newly renovated NOMA (North Manchester). These green spaces are ideal places if you want to visit the city but don’t fancy crowded areas. Similarly, Castlefield Bowl is a wide-open space, ideal for meeting people and catching up on the last 15 or so months!
The Manchester canal network is a thing of beauty and huge amounts of it intersect with the city centre. This means you can enjoy the sights and sounds of Manchester, without heading into the bustling city centre. And with so many bars and cafes near the riverfront, you can legitimately have a full-blown city day out in a Covid secure way!
Stick To Outdoors
Speaking of bars and cafes, Manchester has plenty of them! And, if you’re anxious about returning to the city, but really miss your favourite bars, restaurants, and cafes, then just sit outside.
With the recent pedestrianisation of Stevens Square and Thomas Street, the Northern Quarter is now an outdoor paradise! (provided the weather’s ok!) So be sure to head there to enjoy some safe, outdoor drinks and maybe even a bite to eat! After all, you deserve it after the year we’ve had. The fresh air disperses Covid particles meaning the risks of catching this virus outdoors is extremely reduced.
Why Not Start Slow And Come To Our Breakfast Club?
In-person events BACK! The return of the famous MYP Breakfast Club was announced last week, at a brand new venue, Bull & Bear within The Stock Exchange Hotel. Tickets sold out in less than 24 hours signalling there are many of us who can’t wait to reconnect!
For just £10 per ticket, you’ll be given access to this fantastic networking event, a breakfast sandwich, and tea and coffee. Starting bright and early at 7:30, the event will be a great opportunity to network and speak with like-minded young professionals.
We also have more in our series of summer Health & Well-being events upcoming, along with more in our MYP Supper Club series. We’ll be returning to bigger events later in the year as it becomes clearer how the situation will evolve.
To book your tickets for any event, simply head over to our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, or our events page where you can see the latest events on offer!
