I love shopping. But shopping for this trip hasn’t been a barrel of laughs. Maybe it wasn’t the wisest idea to book my trip for December as this means all the shops are full of cosy knits, snuggly jumpers and thick warm autumnal accessories. Not skimpy little bikinis. I was on a mission to treat myself to a new bikini as I figure that is going to be my staple look for the next few months. The thought of that alone brings me out in a rash and rocking silently on the floor - these white flabby bits will soon be on display for all to see. Gulp.

But finding a bikini at the end of October on the high street is like a mission impossible that even Tom Cruise would struggle with. So I guess I will have to power up Google and get searching online.

The other shopping struggle is walking shoes. Urgh probably the most unflattering and unsexy footwear option out there. I have a passion for shoes but most of the ones I currently own have vertiginous sky scraper heels not rugged grips. Trying on the bland assortment of hiking boots and shoes complete with thick walking socks was the first time in my life when I didn’t enjoy the experience of shoe shopping. But I guess style is going to have to go out of the window for the next few months and comfort and practicality will become my buzzwords. Oh the glamour!