A Strange Feeling.....

Something has been bothering me today and for a while I couldn't put my finger on it. It was starting to bug me. Like a fly banging against the lamp shade when you're trying to sleep. Trying to ignore it wasn't working. But what was it? It certainly wasn't the city. Auckland is probably one of the best capitals I've visited. Clean, friendly, green and beautiful. No litter, graffiti or dog.... well you know. 

Taking the walk up to Mount Eden, an extinct crater of a hill on the outskirts of the city, certainly reinforces just how pretty this city is and gives you a 360 degree view of the capital and it's beautiful surroundings. A lot like Oslo. Certainly sitting here on the waterfront, watching the world go by and listening to the best 80s pop had to offer is very reminiscent of Aker Brygge. But what's bothering me? It's not the beer - a local IPA for those who are interested. It's not the company or the fact that it's a beautiful summer's evening..... wait! That's it! It's summer and it's December! 

I shouldn't be sat in shirt sleeves at night watching the world go in December. Where's the rain, cold wind, people in thick coats, hats and gloves? Where are the shoppers heading home, collars up to protect against the bone chilling damp? It's missing. And I miss it. Well a little.

Looking back, the feeling started this morning when I spotted a Christmas tree, complete with tinsel and baubles, in one of the town squares whilst I was applying suntan lotion. A Christmas tree that was drenched in sunshine. It's not natural. Then there were other things; a guy in a Santa hat selling ice cream, Christmas songs playing in the park whilst locals sunbathed and Santa adornments on shopping arcades in the blazing heat. It knocked me off my axis. My northern hemisphere upbringing told me this was wrong.

Ah well. I'll just have to try and get used to it. Maybe another beer will help? If not it'll certainly take the edge off my sunburn!