10 THINGS TO DO WHEN LOCKDOWN'S OVER
For many of us, lockdown has been the perfect moment to sit back, reflect and put in place new healthier routines. But for the majority of people, this moment seemed an endless, blurry segment of our lives spent reminiscing about the good old normal days.
Below are a list of common-sense and not so expected things you can look forward to, when lockdown will finally be over that you can add to your lengthy list.
Words cannot “espresso” how much we’ve all missed a chat over coffee at our local cafè! Although mokas, french presses and capsules have saved us from caffeine under-dose, nothing beats a proper Italian barista style coffee!
2. London markets - a whirlpool of different smells, cultures and tasty free testers. Yes, they are my main reason for braving the bustling crowds, whiffs of cheese or even the “eat on your feet or on the street” type of routine. But seriously, they’re the best way of experiencing street-food from all over the world and I miss them dearly.
3. Airports, a world of infinite possibilities. Unless you suffer from aerophobia - and by that I don’t mean fear of fresh air, you’ve certainly been missing the thrill of flying to another country or at least, panning to. The hustle and bustle lively-hood of the airports, the last minute shops at the duty free and the entertainment of people watching is something that virtual traveling cannot compete with.
4. I read an article on Time Out which said that Soho Summer Street Festival proposed cars to be banned in the London neighbourhood to allow businesses to spread outdoors - and there is nothing I would love more. There’s something about outdoor dining or simply enjoying a fresh pint in the sun, that makes me feel like I’m elsewhere, in Rome or Paris perhaps.
5. They say happiness comes in waves - and who would have thought the thought of taking the London Underground with a wave of people would make us feel merry? There’s nothing like taking public transport at peek-hour to feel “in touch” with someone. A merry moment for all of us who have been spending lockdown alone!
6. Although some people made the most of lockdown putting in place an at-home workout routine, were quite content going for an evening run around the empty city or spent time nailing their downward dogs and headstands, some of us miss the gym. After failing at zoom classes by turning off my camera to take a long break, making my flatmates panicking over an earthquake - caused by me trying to do a tuck jump, I realized that the only thing that can keep me fit and willing to excercise, is a real life, mean but motivating trainer.
7. A family get-together. Although sometimes family reunions that happen over reoccurring festivities can be intense and a reminder of why we moved out (other then being adults) - we can all agree that not having the possibility of being with one another is simply not nice. Prospect of a family meal with all the food, alchool, laughs and hugs that they come with it it’s blazing in the far-distance, we just need to hangout a little longer on google hangout or zoom.
8. An out of a movie experience. There is no set date or confirmation as to when and if cinemas and theaters will reopen. With the summer breeze and bright sunshine we experienced, what I found myself longing for, is the cosy feeling of the outdoor cinemas. But fear not - The Luna drive-in cinemas will soon reopen. With self-distancing measures, of course!
9. An outdoor Scavenger Hunt. There’s nothing that screams summer celebration more than being allowed back outside with your friends and create unforgettable memories. They are a unique and fun experience with a hint of healthy competition! For a self-distancing appropriate one that you can do from now, and anywhere in the world check out our Summer 2020 Scavenger Hunt!
10. Listening to live music immersed in nature. After being locked in an empty city for so long, we’re all dreaming of getting out of town and savoring some fresh air and upbeat sounds. Reason more to look forward to the next Wilderness Festival in Oxford or if you’re twitching to go this year, I heard Portugal has reopened its borders..