After several false starts and two cancelled trips, I am finally leaving the country. In my current work situation, escaping abroad seems to be the only way of getting some rest. I am therefore even more delighted than usual to be going to London, a city I adore anyway.

It’s not only being there I like, I love getting there as well. While some people hate planes and busses and trains, I enjoy the actual travelling bit. There is something magical in being between places, suspended in time – I always feel very relaxed and contemplative, when I’m moving from A to B. I also feel like everything is possible.

No matter how I travel, there are certain things I do. I get a good coffee, something to eat and drink (ALWAYS have something to eat!), a warm shawl (don’t be fooled by summer, you will need that shawl), and most importantly, a selection of magazines and books. I never leave the house without a book, but for travel, I actually prefer magazines – especially when it’s a short trip.

I am in fact on the train now, heading towards London: I thought it would be bad luck to start this post before being out of the tunnel. I have just finished browsing Harper’s Bazaar August issue (great visuals, by the way) and will continue with Intelligent Life in a minute. When we arrive, we will be going to the opening of the Proms and to Victoria & Albert tomorrow, and I plan to buy unreasonable quantities of skin care and possibly an expensive bag. I will keep you posted.