An obvious similarity is the the thriving community of Chinatown, which features an highly decorative imperial arch. Another is Canal Street, Manchester’s ‘gay village’ and one of the liveliest and most exciting places to go out in the UK.

As well as dazzling nightlife, the city offers culture and attractions aplenty. There are world-class museums and famous comedy clubs, ballet and opera, theatre and international cinema, and exhibitions on everything from the future of cities to the history of punk rock. Manchester also boasts legendary sporting venues, including the hallowed turf of Old Trafford and the City of Manchester Stadium.

Then there are quirkier destinations. Oxford Road’s wealth of student-friendly shops, eateries and bars make it a popular destination for undergraduates. Rusholme is a brightly lit strip of over 150 Asian businesses just two miles from the centre of Manchester. Sometimes known as the Curry Mile, it features the highest concentration of eating establishments in Europe.

Getting to see all these places is never difficult. The city boasts the busiest bus route in Europe. Although it runs conveniently through the heart of the city, its popularity has probably got something to do with the fact there are free city centre shuttle buses linking the mainline railway stations to the shopping centre and inexpensive bus travel around the city.

For information about visiting Manchester, visit Manchester’s Tourism Board or better yet, see what our students do and where they go on the Student Guide website.