Summer bucket list
Olivia Richards shares her summer bucket list while there is hope that things might be returning to normal
With spring nearly upon us and the sunshine finally making a reappearance, I am sure many of us have already begun to get excited for summer, particularly this year, as it comes with the hope of returning to normality. The countdown to summer has officially started as the weather is already slowly getting warmer, and five o’clock is no longer shadowed by the darkness associated with winter. Now you may say that it’s too early and I am a bit eager, but after the year we’ve had and with blue skies beginning to dawn, I have decided that it is officially time to start planning my summer bucket list for 2021.
Something that is at the top of my list this summer is bottomless brunch at Turtle Bay, which includes two hours of cocktails and any brunch dish on their menu. This is not the cheapest activity, but if you’re like me and love a cocktail, it is well worth the price. I also cannot think of a better way to celebrate leaving the pandemic in the past than brunching in style with your friends.
However, if you’re not into drinking then there are loads of other things you can do, such as daytrips. The great thing about Exeter is that it’s right on the coast, which means that there are tons of nice beaches nearby! Picture sitting on the beach, eating fish and chips, and watching the tide roll in. This makes beach days a must and there are a fair few to pick from: Exmouth, Dawlish Warren, and Sandy Bay–the list is endless. Furthermore, if you get bored of visiting during the day, I would thoroughly recommend visiting one of these beaches either in the morning or evening to watch the sunrise or sunset.
An essential on everyone’s summer list should be a picnic, which you can either do in your garden or outside your accommodation. However, there are a few places in Exeter I would suggest, such as Northernhay Gardens or the Quayside; both locations are perfect for a summertime picnic! In terms of food, a picnic can include anything from sandwiches and strawberries to sausage rolls, depending on what you and your friends like. An easy way of organising this is by suggesting that your friends bring two to three things each, which will soon add up to a summertime feast. Something I definitely want to add to my picnic this summer is eating a cake out of a wine glass. Now I know that this does not change the flavour of the cake, but it seems to add an air of sophistication and removes the mess of serving. Just scoop up and enjoy!
The last thing on my summer bucket list is a barbecue as I believe that no summer is complete without one. This can include whatever you want, whether it be burgers, kebabs, or even corn on the cob, which I think is an essential item. This is something that is perhaps harder to do if you are staying in a flat, but if you have a small garden or patio, you can easily purchase a disposable barbecue from your supermarket or online. You could use it later on in the evening to make s’mores; I love campfires and light evenings!