A Londoner In Sussex

I’ve been lucky enough to have seen a few corners of this crazy little planet we call Earth. From the Blue Mountains and rain forests of Australia to the coastal views of California and one or two places in between and beyond. I’ve concluded that I live in one of the best parts of the world. The South Coast is the sunniest region in the UK and the area between The Rivers Arun and Adur is a microclimate. I’ve actually seen a line of clouds approaching from the north being held back by the Downs. It’s as if a giant bouncer in the sky is protecting us by not letting any uninvited guests into the party.The picturesque South Downs and coast that stretch before us provide the perfect backdrop. The cold snap in early December last year magically transformed the Downs into the Alps. And like something from a George Lucas film, witnessing snow on the beach was odd, eerie and mesmerizing all at the same time. I’m originally from ‘dat dare London’ and the contrast between here and there is stark. It’s almost like another country. When I first emigrated here three years ago I was surprised to learn that most shops close at five thirty. For someone who’s used to the option of some late night retail therapy this takes some adjusting. Also, on average people go to bed earlier. In some areas I’m convinced that the traffic lights are switched off by ten o’clock. In London they just nick ‘em! Every time I take a sojourn back I feel as though I should produce my passport instead of my saver return at Victoria. For one thing the Big Smoke appears to be the land of eternal youth. Whenever I return to the capital it’s hard to spot anyone over the age of twenty-five. I always like to play a little game when I’m on the tube called Who Is The Oldest on the Carriage? To be honest it’s getting boring because most of the time it’s me. People start to fidget in Starbucks at Canary Wharf if their latte isn’t served up within a minute. And the concept of the queue is like something from a parallel universe. Back in West Sussex it’s a more laid-back affair. Most people are courteous on the roads and you don’t feel like you’re in an episode of The Wacky Races. A game I like to play in Rustington is Who Will Be The First To Move At The Mini Roundabout? It’s the ultimate guessing game and politeness to the nth degree. Have you ever tried driving around the West End? Even Button, Bullitt and Hamilton would think twice!