Steamy days at the beach, balmy nights on rooftop bars and sunset picnics by the water. In the summer, in the city.

Escaping ...
This year I’m becoming a tourist in my own city with relatives visiting from London. I’ll be savouring everything Sydney has to offer and putting my vintage film cameras to good use. From endless days at Balmoral beach, the classic Harbour Bridge and Bondi to Coogee walks, picnics at the Botanical Gardens and for the days where the mercury is far too high, you’ll find us cooling off in the Art Gallery of NSW and the Museum of Contemporary Art or watching films on my cool living room floor. Balmy evenings will be spent on rooftops or dining anywhere with a view.

Essentials ...
Despite my best intentions, I rarely stray from my summer repertoire. Swimwear under everything, make up – never. Slip-on dresses, oversized linen shirts and a straw bag filled with my staple pair of sunglasses, face spray, coconut-scented SPF and a bright lip tint for those impromptu alfresco dinner rendezvous. The only items I’ll be carrying all summer. My soundtrack for the season will involve some old-school Maroon 5, reggae, Paolo Nutini and some Bruno Mars.

Celebrating ...
My family and I will be celebrating with our traditional Christmas Eve midnight feast, with a countdown to 12am on Christmas Day where we’re finally allowed to open gifts. Friends and family can expect to receive a stocking filled with treats (baked with love by yours truly) and an assortment of tailored gifts. As for myself, I’ll be happy with a tray of coconuts (mangoes also acceptable), a new leather journal and a top up of my favourite perfume. I’ll also happily accept any small piece of jewellery that simply reminded you of me.