Will you survive split-mas?

Forget February 14th; the Christmas season is definitely when Cupid’s arrow strikes. There’s obviously something about the frosty mornings and twinkling Christmas lights which warms people’s affections. The universal excitement which goes into buying and lovingly wrapping a gift for that certain someone has often been known to be one of the highlights of the season – and receiving one back is even better. However, whether new relationships blossomed on campus will survive the winter frost of separation is difficult to answer.

The bubble of university life may be about to burst for some couples as they once again encounter the reality of the world outside Warwick campus. It is so easy to forget your life outside of university- I mean, how often is it that you have everything you need within a 30 minute walk?! Couples may find that instead of venturing to Leamington on a date you tend to catch a movie at the Arts Centre or go for a romantic meal at one of the restaurants on campus instead. Nothing proves chivalry isn’t dead more than when your partner pays for the taxi ride home…

But does the close proximity create a false illusion of intimacy? It may be that once the couple separates, the long distance and time apart could create a few hitches in the new romance that can be difficult for a fledgling relationship to tackle. Meeting up becomes a big issue and for those with jobs and family to visit, finding the time to do so can be almost impossible. Finally, there are also the looming essay deadlines, reports and the endless reading to get through and sometimes the addition of a new boy/girlfriend can just add to the stress.

Nevertheless, each relationship is different and there are no hard and fast rules. Rest assured, for those who are busy, the holiday will be over in a flash and you’ll be back in your relationship bubble before you know it. Until then enjoy the good old home comforts of Mum’s cooking, a dish-washer and a TV. For those who find themselves more heartbroken than hungover, you can always console yourself with a few mince pies.