Julia Vogado

I love travelling, and nothing beats actually going there. But what if immersive experiences could open the door to other countries, cultures and languages for people who can't travel – while also offering a lower-carbon way to experience somewhere new?

Six in ten primary schools and nearly one in five secondary schools now report having no international engagement at all. But behind the statistics are the moments that no report can measure: the child who suddenly discovers another language is for them, the pupil who starts to see the world differently, and the experience that sparks a lifelong interest. Reflections on the Language Trends England 2026 report from the founder of All Abroad! Bus.

Every January brings pressure to reset, declutter and begin again — ideally by the 1st. But not all cultures mark New Year at the same time, and neither do all people. Drawing on experiences of living abroad and awareness of global calendars, this post explores when the New Year really begins, why timing matters, and how cultural rhythms can help us approach renewal with more kindness and perspective.