When this special time of year gets closer, cities around the world start putting up Christmas decorations and it’s all covered in beautiful lights. Seeing it come together every year definitely gets me in a festive mood and – since it is my favorite time of year – I love to go where it shines the brightest. Right before the pandemic hit I flew to London and let me tell you the capital of England was truly captivating. Not only is the city in full Christmas mode, but everyone you meet has such a warm and kind aura surrounding them. I knew I was gonna come back around the same time again and – after not being able to go last year – I finally flew back this year.
Even though the United Kingdom is known for its rainy and cold weather, it surely did not ruin the great Christmas spirit the city had to offer. As most people I picked out places I really wanted to see, decorations I had to witness in person. One of them is definitely the giant Christmas tree at Covent Garden. You see people all around it taking pictures and admiring the beautifully decorated tree. For me personally, walking around Covent Garden and looking at the window displays is like being in one of those Christmas movies we rewatch every year.
For someone who can watch them all year long, it is surely a great experience. And for those of you who have a soft spot for the Grinch, you would have appreciated the one hanging in front of “The Ivy Chelsea Garden” in between a magical display. Especially at night the colorful lights were truly mesmerizing. As much as the owners of those places love to put it together, they patiently wait for the reactions from not only tourists but locals as well. A blessing for the eyes if you ask me. We know Christmas is near when we start seeing cities light up, decorated festively.
Seeing restaurants, shops and big buildings fully covered in fun decorations and lights shows how much people love the holiday season and we appreciate that. There is nothing more beautiful than taking a walk through a city and feeling at home. While we have all struggled since being constantly restricted due to a worldwide pandemic, feeling at peace in a positive environment is something no one should ever take for granted.
Go where your heart is happy and breathe in the good spirit. For me, London has always felt like a place where I can just be myself and recharge my batteries. Have I considered moving there? A hundred percent. Not only did I always have the best time exploring the city at its brightest, I met such great people and had a chance to connect with friends. Whenever I go back, I know there are always places to see and people to reunite with. Isn’t that beautiful? Whoever hasn’t been to London right before or around Christmas, put it on your bucket list for 2022. I’ll see you there!
ROARA Magazine 