Brrrrr….

I come from Malaysia, which is very close to the equator. It’s hot and humid all year round, with lots of rain throughout the year. I have experienced cold weather while on holiday in Ooty in India, when I was a little child, and then in the UK as a student, and subsequently in a few other places when on holiday. The latest was in January 2025 in Istanbul.

I’m not put off by cold weather. There’s something romantic about it, especially when you’re writing about it from the warmth! Truly, though, I like experiencing the cold. There’s a crispness about the air and a coolness it plants on my cheek which I simply love. I love it when there’s an event to get all dressed up for. You don’t feel sticky at all- and everything from your makeup to your hair remains in place, unperturbed by sweat. It’s brilliant for photos!

Yet, would I want to live in the cold? I don’t think so. It makes everything more difficult. Going outside isn’t just a matter of stepping out in what you’ve got on. You’ve got to be properly attired. I also feel it gets really complicated because it can get very warm in a stuffy sort of way when you’re layered up. I find that I’m always putting on and taking off layers, like it’s a fun pastime.

If given a choice, I’ll choose the heat – especially if it’s by the sea. There’s a magic that happens in that weather that remains unbearable for me. So whilst I don’t hate the cold, I’ll stick to the seaside sunny-ness that I love with all my heart.