Hi Tanamesars,

I hope you had a beautiful holiday season and that you’re feeling at least somewhat ready to get back on track (I know I’m not). What can I say? After two consecutive years with a very unhappy stomach on New Year’s Eve, this year everything finally aligned: good company, good food, and a truly special place. The NYE I deserved at last.

• This time, as you know, I went to the UK to visit a friend — and it turned out to be such an amazing trip. I’ve been to London a few times before, but if I’m honest, the city never really spoke to me. Until now. This time, we clicked. Me and London were in sync. The city felt alive, the Christmas atmosphere was beautiful, the people I encountered were warm — and, truth be told, I could actually see myself living there. Something I never would have said before.

This happens with music too. How many times have you listened to a song and felt nothing — only to rediscover it years later and suddenly feel seen by it? The lyrics hit differently. You finally get it. That’s exactly what happened with London. I never understood people’s obsession with it; to me, it was just a cloudy, rainy island full of rugby players. But now… I get it. I found the charme. And if the right opportunity ever came along — why not?

Starting the year traveling is something I really cherish. I know it’s an expensive time to leave the country, but breaking the routine at the beginning of a new year feels essential — like a breath of fresh air that helps you reassess your life and the direction you want to take. So here’s my unsolicited advice: take that trip. Plan ahead, make it happen, and go.

I was also reminded that the UK is much more than just London. This time, I visited Oxford and Bath as well — both wonderful surprises. Bath, especially, is a must for a day trip. Such a lovely city that I can’t recommend enough.

Now it’s time to rest, sleep well, and get ready for whatever adventures this year has in store — which I’m sure will be more than we can imagine.

With love,

Micael.