A January Christmas Surprise!

Sussex & London, UK - 23 January to 1 February 2026

A Surprise Trip, A Familiar Warmth

Sometimes the best trips are not about where you go, but who you are with!

Adrian and I pulled off something we have quietly plotting - a surprise visit to the UK.

The family had a Christmas gathering planned…… in January (because why not stretch the festival season a little longer?). Only two of our aunties knew we were coming. Partly for the surprise, partly because we needed somewhere to stay. Priorities. They played along perfectly, not a word to anyone.😄

And the reactions? Worth every second of the long flight. The shock on our cousins’ faces and ever the cousins once removed - was priceless!

As always, a hall was booked and everyone showed up the way family does - arms full of food, drinks, and fun! The elders got into games - simple one like musical chairs - but honestly, that is where you see everyone’s cheeky side come out. No one really grow up. We just get better at pretending.

The days after were slower, quieter. The kind you do not plan too tightly. We stayed on in South Downs, wandered around Chichester, caught up with cousins and their families over pub food and drinks. Lots of that, actually.

One of my favourite moments was the coastal walk along Bosham. Just fresh air, open views and that calm you do not realise you have been missing.

We also brought Aunt and Uncle to Amberley Castle for afternoon tea, and somehow go the best spot by the fireplace. It fel a little indulgent, a little special, and completely unhurried. The kind of afternoon where conversation flows easily and no one is watching the time.

Next day, we drove up to London for more catch-ups (and yes, more pub food and drinks… … clearly a theme). We also took the dogs out for walks in the woods. Finally putting the hiking boots to proper use.