Over 20 years ago I first experinced a British Christmas. It was in a pretty town tucked in the majestic purple, brown landscape of Northumberland. It was spices and wine, damp cold and coal smoke. It was warm glowing lights from the windows of the honey-grey stone houses. It was when I learned how to love mince pies and how to balance a tissue hat on my head. Funny what sherry does to one.

And for more on all that, including my surprise at discovering what otherwise normal people do at the Christmas table in Britain, check out the rest of my story over at Expat Focus!

Wishing you all a very merry, very relaxing holiday season! x