Summer in the City

July already! The longest day - Summer Solstice has been and gone, Trooping the Colour, Ascot Races, Fourth of July over, Henley Regatta in progress and Wimbledon finals this weekend .. oh and the Tour de France starts today in Yorkshire. That's without taking into account the World Cup in Brazil, the cricket etc etc etc. Maybe some or none of these things interest you but in any case .. a crazy busy start to summer in the Northern Hemisphere!

Summer in London can be hit and miss weather wise, but in true Brit fashion people carry on with their plans regardless. Last weekend was a prime example - every year my neighbourhood has a street party. The road is closed and all the residents set tables with flowers, real crockery and cutlery (no plastic here), bring food and drink and some even bring their musical instruments. Children and dogs play in the street and there is a real sense of community. This year was no exception

although there was always a threat of an afternoon shower. When it did rain, the umbrellas went up and everyone stayed put until a torrential downpour eventually scuppered any attempt to 'keep calm and carry on'. We had to concede and move the party indoors which was a bit of a shame as the party fragmented into the various houses but all in all a lovely day and happy to report not a scrap of litter left behind.

Doorways in Milano

My summer is set to be a busy one .. apart from work I have just booked my ticket for my annual long weekend trip to Milano, Italy in mid August. I'm glad I got that out the way as there were few seats left and no deals to be had unless I wanted to stop off for a couple of hours at an airport and extend my journey time unnecessarily! Why would I? I just want to get there! It's always hot and sunny and I so look forward to having a glass of prosecco or a coffee in an outdoor caffe/bar watching the world go by.


Next week I am closer to home and off to Edinburgh and Cardiff for work and doubt I'll get any time to get out and about but if I do I'll let you know. I've been to both cities before but only ever for work so I can't claim to have seen much of either of them sadly.

I'm also in the process of planning my early winter getaway - a new destination .. I'll update you when I know more! Ciao for now!