There is something profoundly magical about a trip that manages to soothe the soul while simultaneously making the ribs ache from laughter. My recent excursion to the United Kingdom was precisely that kind of whirlwind. It was a journey of different landscapes starting with the bracing and beautiful air of Aberdeen before moving through the heart of the West Midlands and finally descending into the vibrant chaos of London. Between the pampering and the pageantry, I found myself reflecting on the sheer richness of a life filled with such extraordinary people.

The Scottish leg of my trip was defined by the kind of hospitality that belongs in a luxury novel. My younger sister took it upon herself to become my personal concierge, and she was frankly overqualified for the role. I was indulged to an embarrassing degree and allowed to sleep in until the sun was practically apologising for being so bright. She looked after my every whim with a grace that made me feel like royalty in exile.

We embarked on our customary visit to Stonehaven Beach which lived up to its name by being a wonderfully stoney stretch of coastline. It was a blustery day, and the air was extremely cold for someone arriving from Kenya. Our mild winter back home seems like a hot summer day compared to the biting winds that my Aberdonian family find so normal. We enjoyed the perfunctory fish and chips washed down with the customary Irn Bru which went down exceptionally well. This was followed by a very quick walk to the ice cream shop because the cold was far too intense to allow for any lagging of feet. My sister insisted on indulging me with treats which warmed the spirit if not the toes.

Of course, the peace was frequently shattered by my niece who is a comedic genius in the making. Our inside jokes are the stuff of legend, and she had me howling with laughter until I could barely breathe. Not to be outdone my brother-in-law joined in the fun by poking endless fun at my nocturnal habits. I remember one particular afternoon when I finally emerged from my room at a truly scandalous hour only to be met with his witty commentary on my grand entrance. It was the perfect blend of warmth and ridicule that only the closest family members can provide.

Amidst this domestic bliss we travelled to Wolverhampton in the West Midlands for a family wedding which served as a beautiful anchor for the trip. Watching the celebrations unfold allowed me a quiet moment to take stock of the immense love that surrounds me. There is a specific kind of honour in being present when new memories are created especially when they are wrapped in the nostalgia of the past. As I watched the ceremonies, I had a sudden and startling epiphany that we have officially become the new adults. We were performing the roles and traditions that our mothers once did while we looked on as children. The hospitality in the West Midlands was exceptional, and the food menu was so well curated that every bite felt like a tribute to the occasion.

Transitioning from the serene heights of the north to the buzzing energy of London was an absolute delight. No matter how many times I visit I find that traipsing around the capital remains one of my most favourite things to do. I have a particular fondness for driving around Central London as there is something about the city streets that makes the heart flutter. This has been a constant feeling since my childhood, and it never fails to excite me. There is a romanticism in the architecture where the ancient stone of the past meets the sleek glass of the future. I adore the mix of everything that London offers because it makes me feel wonderful just to be a part of the crowd.

One evening found me sitting at a quaint Italian restaurant by the roadside just moments before I was due at the theatre. There is something so quintessentially European about dining alfresco as the London city streets hum around you. From there I went to watch The Lion King musical, and it exceeded every possible expectation. The production was a masterpiece of colour and sound, and it left me completely enthralled.

Naturally no trip to London is complete without a visit to Covent Garden for those famous strawberries doused in melted milk chocolate. My sweet tooth gave its immediate and enthusiastic approval as that first bite of decadence hit. I also found myself drawn back to the promenade at Windsor by the River Thames. The pull to Windsor is incredibly indescribable but it provides an absolutely lovely feeling to be there. I actually visited Windsor three times during this single trip including one final visit to have a last meal before heading home.

My itinerary always includes a stop at a particular little shop that sells fudge. There is a hypnotic quality to watching the staff as they prepare the confectionery right in front of your eyes. I have visited this shop many times over the years and returning there felt like visiting an old friend.

Being a tourist in London allows me to see the world through a lens of wonder and this trip was a perfect reminder of why I love it so much. I returned home with a heart full of love and a suitcase that likely smelled faintly of sugar and celebratory memories.