One of the most the things I noticed most during my trip back the UK is the overwhelming sense of place. This was most present during a walk through the Leicestershire countryside close to the site of the Battle of Bosworth field.  Not just because it was a monument to a significant battle many centuries ago but because the surrounding landscape has changed so little over those hundreds of years. In years gone by farm labourers would have toiled in these fields and walked across the acres to reach the church in Market Boswell on their day of rest.  It’s the depth of history that makes England such a wonderful place to be.

During my trip I was lucky enough to soak up plenty of English heritage and experience the distinctive differences of the many regions across the country.  Being a visitor I had a heightened sense of awareness that I don’t think I ever really appreciated when I lived in the country.  I’m writing this blog post as I fly across the vast pacific ocean and am feeling torn between the “old” world and the “new” world which is now home.

I find little point in trying to compare and make judgements over whether England or New Zealand is a better place to live.  Each is distinctive offering different but equally enriching life experiences. Each has a sense of place I really enjoy.  In some senses a long haul flight between the two is a good way to transition between the two.  It gives you plenty of time to savour good memories and build anticipation of what will be there for me when I return home.