By Maxie Heppell

Now look: For this Free Stater the wetness is still acceptable, and I can make plans for the worse-than-pink-netball-hands-in-the-winter coldness. But the short days and long nights sometimes threaten to drive me to red cooldrink!  

So, what now? Here are a few tips to not only survive the English weather, but to even enjoy it!

“Dress for the occasion”

If the English gets one thing right, it is layered clothing. Start with good thermal underwear and build it up from there. The long-sleeved T-shirts that you quickly put in your trolley when buying milk and bread will simply not do it – sorry. Rather go shopping at the speciality stores for the same type of vests like when you are planning on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

And keep your head warm. I understand about the hair, Ma’am. But when, during the first winter, your ears freeze off, you will quickly get creative in resetting the tresses when the hoody comes off.   

It is winter. It rains. Period.

Always have a raincoat or poncho at hand. Umbrellas do work, but when the island’s winds get up, your umbrella would not be much of a help.

Ensure you have shoes that you do not mind getting wet and throw your smart work shoes in the rucksack.

Do as the English do and drink tea

… or coffee or hot chocolate or whatever keeps you warm between the home and the office. Get a nice flask or thermal cup with an inspiring verse on it; something that will remind you that “this too shall pass.”

Switch to “pub mode”

One cannot really compare English pubs to anything in South Africa. These are more than a place to enjoy your beer; they are also warm, homely havens with blazing fires and where children and dogs are equally welcome. This is where the folk get together when the cold chases you inside.

Discover extramural activities

Museums, theatres, libraries – England has these in abundance. When the weather becomes too inhospitable, go inside for a shot of culture. And get rid of a few layers of clothing – these spaces are always comfortably heated in winter.

Go for a walk

No, I am serious! In South Africa everything grinds to a halt when it is cold and wet. If this were to be the case in Egland, nothing would ever get done. We even saw people erecting fences or building roofs in the middle of winter.

Although you do not have to go to such lengths, you can still take your doggy for a walk. Put on your raincoat, buy yourself a pair of pink Wellington water boots and enjoy the greenness around you that never seems to disappear. England in the winter as just as beautiful as it is in summer.

Escape abroad

Visiting South Africa during the English winter is obviously the first prize, but it is rather expensive and not possible for everyone. However, there are indeed very cheap flights or ferries to sunny Spain, France and other European countries, and it is quite natural to hear people planning a holiday like we do when going to Hartenbos.

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD

SAD is a reality. If the long nights start getting to you, consider a daylight lamp. These mimic daylight and are recommended to anyone who is affected by SAD.

Do not underestimate your daily dose of vitamin D – in winter as well as in summer!

Accept the season’s mood

England has a special type of tranquillity in winter. Embrace the season rather than fighting it. Watch a movie, read a book or listen to good Afrikaans music while braaiing meat over the fireplace’s flames and getting nostalgic …

In a land known for its unpredictable weather (and also its love of discussing it!), winter can become a challenge to many South Africans. However, with a little preparation, adaptability and a good sense of humor you can not only survive winter, but even enjoy it thoroughly!

In which country do you live? What is on your survival list for scorching summers or bitterly cold winters?

Photo: spurwing-agency-unsplash