THE clocks went back last weekend making our days feel even shorter. Coupled with the storm that battered southern Britain yesterday, many Aussies in the UK may be feeling down about the onset of winter. Don’t panic here’s some advice on surviving those long cold months.
1. CLOTHING
Never underestimate the importance of a good winter coat and all the accessories. Invest in some warm gloves, scarfs and hats. You will need them. Girls, although we all resist initially, you will eventually have to give in to knitwear. Carrying a brollie also just stopped being optional, always have one in the bottom of your bag. You don’t want to get drenched and be the ‘damp’ smelling person on the tube.
2. PUBS
Scout out your local drinking holes. The one which was your haunt in summer is probably not going to be the best during winter months. Scrap the courtyards, and find the cosy local with an open fire if possible. On big nights out, start carrying cash for the cloakroom.
3. DRINKING
Don’t let the dark and damp keep you indoors. Still go out with friends and stay social. Discover winter warming drinks like Irish coffee, a ‘hot toddy’ (also recommended when you’re sick) and mulled wine around Christmas.
4. ROASTS
There’s a reason the Brits eat roasts in winter. You need hearty food during the cold months. Find a local pub with a good Sunday roast, or even get your friends around for one. Make sure you get into all the trimmings, including Yorkshire pudding. Stock up on comfort foods, under so many layers you can now embrace the Heathrow injection.
5. SAD
Don’t get sad, or even SAD (Sun Affected Disorder). Eat oily fish, eggs and find good vitamin D supplements if you are the type to miss the sun. A cheeky sunbed every now and then won’t hurt, and for the hard-core a sun-lamp might be a good investment.
6. WINTER TRAVEL
Many Aussies can get so caught up travelling in the summer they forget about the amazing places to be seen in winter. Take advantage of the off-season cheap flights and see cities in a different light. Scandinavia is especially beautiful in winter. Also, don’t forget Britain. If you’re feeling down about the weather why not spend a weekend in Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast or even Bath. For those lucky enough to be able to, break up winter with a trip home. Fail that, Skype your mates and tell them how much fun you can have in the UK despite the weather.
7. CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Take advantage of the amazing Christmas markets in Europe. Lille and Bruges for example are just a Eurostar away and will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a childhood picture book. Other great markets are in; Paris, Munich, Brussels and Salzburg. A good way to get you outside when you just want to mope inside.
8. EVENTS
Get involved with as many London winter events as possible. Head out on Guy Fawkes night and enjoy the fireworks across London. London is beautiful on New Years Eve. Winter is also the best time to do all those indoor things you meant to in summer such as The British Museum, a West End Show and The Tate Modern.
9. AUSTRALIA DAY
Australia Day in the UK is a great experience. Get out and among the atmosphere and celebrate with friends. There are events across the UK. It’s a good spirit lifter for those feeling a bit homesick in January.
10. AVOID GETTING SICK
Keep eating fruit and veges as much as possible. Avoid your time being ruined by the latest bug (those who had last years Norovirus will know what I mean) and keep your immune system strong. However, you probably will get sick at least once and it is a real downer. Stock up on cold and flu medicine and tissues in case and steer clear of people coughing on the tube.
Oh… and don’t try to peel a banana with gloves on!
