Summer breaks are so overrated. If you want a really romantic break then winter is the best season to steal some precious time away with your loved one. Roaring fires, whisky on the rocks, snowy mountains and Aran jumpers are all images that stir in the mind….or am I confusing this with a scene from a 1970’s James Bond movie? Either way surely everyone wants a piece of that?
Don’t be Caught Out in the Cold
Beware though, as there is just as much planning required for a winter break as a summer one…if not more. There are lots of winter activities to enjoy especially if you are lucky enough to be at a hotel with outdoor pursuits on the agenda. Looking glamorous after a wind swept walk is near impossible, or being caught out in the rain without the protective clothing just makes for a thoroughly miserable time, so make sure you are prepared for all eventualities.
Round the World give some good advice on what to pack to ensure you are kept warm and dry. Suntan lotion and vests are out, Norwegian moisturiser, scarves and gloves, lots of layers, waterproofs and wellies are definitely in. This is your opportunity to show off some of your very classy country attire. And there is nothing more country chic than the iconic wellington boot. There are so many out there to choose from, you only have to take a look on eBay to see the 100s of styles and ranges. Pink ones, blue ones, sparkly ones, long ones, short ones, even lace up ones and yes really, wedged-heeled ones! They have even been seen on this year’s catwalk – check out this article in the Guardian. They are a real celeb accessory, a Royal necessity and a must for your suitcase.
Gone are the days when a wellington boot was green and so rigid you walked like a cyber man and each foot was like an ice block. Waterproof yes….comfortable and warm, definitely not. But now with the birth of neoprene you can have warm toasty feet as well as dry. If you are hoping to walk lots on your break then it really is worthwhile investing in brands like Hunter, Aigle and Le Chameau as they are leading the way in a ‘walking wellie boot’ with added ankle support. Although ‘break’ them in before you head off on your break and make sure they get plenty of mud on them. Virgin wellies always evoke a wry smile from seasoned outdoorsy types. It’s the equivalent of the spangly clean Landrover Discovery that will never see a spot of dirt let alone engage it’s four-wheel-drive ability. If you are going to splash the cash on them – use them as they were designed to be used.
If you don’t think you need the Range Rover of the wellie world then you may want a ‘cross wellie’ – those amazing pretty looking boots that are often lined and warm and made of superior materials. These can look great walking down the high street as well as trudging through woodland or participating in outdoor activities.
It is obviously important however to make sure your upper body is just as suitably dressed, so layer up, and take to the great outdoors.
