I thought it would be nice to continue following on from the very summery theme my blog has taken on this month with a nice bucket list. The hubby and I are still deliberating the best destination for our holiday (if it happens), so in the meantime I’ll talk about some my summer plans closer to home!
Tan
It doesn’t matter whether we go abroad or not this summer, nothing will stop me topping up my tan. The weather has stayed so nice that it even looks like I might get a healthier glow in the UK than I would if we went away. Alright, maybe that’s a bit far-fetched, but no one can argue against how lovely it’s been.
I honestly couldn’t be better placed for summer tan: Brighton is gorgeous. The beach is always packed on the particularly sizzling days; it does get really overcrowded, so I always opt for a spot on Hove lawns or Pavilion Gardens to beat the crowds. With that being said, the atmosphere in Brighton is always so friendly I really couldn’t care less about the thousands that take to the streets.
Hundreds of London day trippers, students and Brightonians create an incredible buzz, especially in North Laine or along the promenade. There’s no animosity or frustration, everyone is just really keen to get themselves an ice cream from Marocco’s and enjoy the sun with their family.
If you wanted a perfect example of what I’m talking about – there’s no better than…
Pride
Brighton Pride – one of my favourite days of the year!
2016 has been really depressing for news. It feels like there’s conflict all over the world, not to mention how divisive the politics has been, I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone come together again for Brighton Pride! I never knew that Brighton Pride is the biggest pride festival in the UK? It’s only a week away and I just can’t wait. I’d like to go to Preston Park this year to see the parade again – incredible outfits, even more incredible outfits and the most vibrant display of colour.
I’m planning on renting a Nikon D5 for Pride next week. Firstly, it’s only £125, which I thought was an absolute steal and secondly – it’s meant to be amazing for tracking focus and low light. There might be an unparalleled display of colour, but a sizable portion of the Pride festival attractions are situated in tents. I always find them particularly dimly lit – so I’m hoping this camera might be the best one for the job. Don’t be surprised if my pictures come out looking like they came from India’s Holi Festival! With that being said, I’m not even the most talented photographer – so don’t expect too much. I just wish I had one for my own wedding, it’s meant to be perfect for that sort of thing. I guess we’ll let the camera do the work!
Keeping Active
The temptation in this sort of weather is to eat fatty foods, drink far too much alcohol and exercise even less. Not this summer. Of course, I have the added incentive of keeping fit so that my holiday pics won’t look like the “before” pictures from a diet plan!
I’m not promising anything again though. As much as I’ve worked hard on it over the years, my self-restraint always wavers when it comes to cocktails, but I’m determined. I’ve found morning yoga sessions particularly great for me, they let me clear my head and start the day relaxed. I might even get my bike up and running again and see if I can remember how to pedal. You might think I’m a pyramid scheme saleswoman for the city of Brighton at this point, but this city is ideal for riding your bike too. There are so many parks, cycle lanes along the seafront and even the South Downs if I was feeling super healthy.
No excuses, I’m going to get it all done!
