This Jennifer Hudson song has been pumping in my car to shake the winter chills away. I’m “warm in the winter, cool in the summer”.

I promised some great cosy places to snuggle up and shake the blues away, but blaring at your Vuvuzela under your blanket while watching the Confed Cup with your better half ain’t going to do it.

I say: “Go to Europe for the summer!”

It is warm, the Europeans are at their friendliest! I must say that licking Gelato (Ice Cream) while walking through the cobblestoned streets of Rome is really a great romantic way to chase the Joburg winter chills away. Sure, there are less costly, local ways to do this, but hey… “it’s a wonderful life and a short time to live!”

My personal favourite is the Bernini Bristol on the Piazza Barberini; it offers the glamour of a bygone era along with the most modern appurtenances and amenities marked by a refined atmosphere and comfortable elegance.

Talk about dressing up in love. Rome is the place to do it. The Romans are loud, emotional and openly affectionate. The hotel is right in the heart of Rome at the beginning of Via Veneto and near Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Necking on the Spanish Steps with other lovers is a must-do. Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome, a superstition believed by many. If you credit card has muscle, Via Condotti is a few steps away to shop to your heart’s content.

Go on toast to life and live a little.

All my love.