United Kingdom

Size isn’t everything. One’s power and influence can stretch further than the landmass one holds. The United Kingdom has certainly demonstrated this more than once. History has shown that power fluctuates over the years but influence stands the test of time.

Four countries united under the Union Jack as well as the same sky of persistent grey show that despite the consistent drizzle, there is plenty of beauty amongst the rugged English fell mountains, the Scottish lochs and windy Welsh peaks.

Between the two of us, we spent three years in London, the epicentre of devilishly good times and hazy memories. Even with its astronomically high rents for broom closet rooms and the fact you may have to deal with a smelly armpit when you’re squished into an underground carriage at peak hour, London is a city that you love to hate and love to love.

London is where you can discover something new or re-visit favourite haunts every weekend. There is free entry to art galleries, museums and markets with ethnic specialties, vintage clothing and artisan wares. It’s a city where there’s a pub on every corner and you can always rely on Wetherbees to remain open. Search for the cafes serving specialty coffee in each borough, go to the theatre in West End and be careful when speaking of your Premier League allegiance in public.

Although descendants of the Scottish Highlanders are dispersed throughout the world, the stories and traditions of Scotland’s long history are carried on in the empty glens, the craggy coastline and the people who inhabit the small villages and towns. Scotland’s capital Edinburgh provides a sound base for not only tasting haggis and sampling whisky but discovering where the best coffee cafes are located too. Rich in culture, history and warm hospitality, Edinburgh Fridge Festival in August and Hogmanay New Year’s Eve are events not to be missed.

Our home base for three years yet such little ground covered in this time. Despite the funny way the Brits say “yoghurt”, we thank them for their obsession with baked potatoes with beans and cheese and turkey and cranberry sandwiches. We share some of the less foggy memories with you here.