LONDON · PERSONAL ESSAY

Why I missed London while I was happy in Bali

Sometimes a place has everything, and the people elsewhere still tip the scales.

The Thames and London skyline beneath a layered grey sky.
The Thames and London skyline beneath layered cloud. Regional London archive photograph.

I was completely in love with Bali. Comfortable, happy, with a balance between work, sport and a social life. And then I found myself wanting to go back to London.

Adapted from my travel notes dated 11 August 2023.

A good life in Bali

There was surfing, my biggest love. Everyday life felt easy. I had the things I needed, and a rhythm that suited me.

So why was I going back?

Missing the people

Because I missed our meetups and events. I missed you.

I have always said that the popularity of my events comes from the people who turn up. Some truly wonderful people come along, and somehow I became hooked on them myself.

I could not quite settle down and relax into island life. I kept wanting London. And Madeira. To be fair, I always want Madeira.

Everything could be lovely where I was, and still the people tipped the scales. Warm, kind, familiar people.

Consider this a small, unexpected love letter to all of you. Missing you. Sending kisses and hugs.

If you are planning a visit, there is a slow London river walk in the journal. For another island letter, read my Bali and Madeira notes.

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