Christmas on the beach? Perhaps not…

The Waller family festivities may look slightly different this year…

I’ve never quite understood the Brits’ obsession with the weather. Until now.

As native South Africans, my wife Mandy and I always knew that UK winters would take some getting used to. But after the meteorological chaos of the last couple of weeks, our eyes have been well and truly opened.

One minute it’s sub-zero and snowing, and the next it’s 18 degrees with gale-force winds, torrential rain and flooding. Talk about a baptism of fire!

Naturally, whilst this crazy weather rollercoaster was in full swing, I did what any self-respecting South African would do: I googled the weather back home, just to ‘see’…

Twenty-seven degrees and sunny. Of course it was. Damn.

This act of self-torment got me thinking about everything else that will be different for our first Christmas in the UK. For starters, there will be no sun-drenched beach BBQ on Christmas Day. I don’t think any amount of mulled wine is going to convince Mandy or the kids to brave thermals and frostbite for the sake of that tradition!

And as for a Christmas morning dip in the sea? Well, let’s just say the odds aren’t looking great. Although, to my surprise, I was told that a Boxing Day swim is a pastime in some parts of the UK too… As tempting as that sounds, I think I’ll pass!

Whilst we won’t be lighting the braai and roasting meat over coals this year, I’ll still be cooking up a feast worthy of the occasion. Minus the sprouts –?that’s one British tradition I can’t get behind. Thankfully, my customary post-lunch snooze is a beloved ritual that seems to transcend borders!

When it comes to Christmas decorations, we South Africans know how to go all out too. But back home, the distinct lack of pine trees means we’ve always made do with an artificial one. Of course, with Britain boasting no end of real Christmas trees, that could now change… At least if I get my way.

One thing I won’t compromise on is the lights, especially not after witnessing the breath-taking illuminations London has to offer.

Earlier this week, I ventured to the capital to check out a recent Trellidor installation on the Underground. Whilst there, I decided to brave the crowds and visit Oxford Street.

I’m glad I did. The Christmas lights were nothing short of spectacular, with over 300,000 LED stars sparkling overhead. The store window displays were equally impressive (hats off to Selfridges for their dazzling creativity).?

Sadly, not all parts of the UK have been as fortunate. Storm Bert postponed light switch-ons in places like Worcester, Kings Lynn and Bangor. Yet another reminder that the British weather takes no prisoners.

Between client meetings and my weekend getaways, it feels like I’ve visited all corners of the UK over the last couple of months. Cardiff has been a particular highlight – and not just because it hosted the Springboks’ victory over Wales at the weekend!

But then again, my recent foray to Oxfordshire was equally memorable. The grand halls of Blenheim Palace are awe-inspiring, and I’m already plotting a return for the festive light trail and Christmas market.

Speaking of Christmas markets, I had my very first experience of one last week. I’d travelled to Leicester to visit a retailer who’d recently had a shutter installed. Whilst in the area, I couldn’t resist wandering through the market in the town centre.

The wooden chalets, overflowing with handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats, transformed the space into a proper winter wonderland. Unfortunately, I was driving and had to forgo the mulled cider –?but I did indulge in a traditional German sausage!

Despite the erratic ?weather, I’m beginning to understand why so many of my fellow South Africans choose to call the UK home. There’s a certain magic here – especially at Christmas.

So whilst our festivities may look a little different this year, they’re shaping up to be just as special.

Besides, who needs braai on the beach when you’ve got mince pies by the fire!?!