As winter descends, the freezing winds and gray skies might make you feel like summer is a distant dream. The sun-soaked days of July seem miles away, but what if you could bring a little slice of that warmth into your chilly world? It’s entirely possible. Even in the heart of winter, with the right mindset (and maybe a few Mediterranean tricks), you can transport yourself back to the days when the sun was high and your spirit lighter. So, grab your coziest blanket, and let’s explore five ways to escape to summer this winter!
Picture this: a bite of grilled octopus, drizzled with olive oil, topped with a squeeze of lemon. That simple bite takes you on a sensory journey to a sunlit Greek coast, even when it’s snowing outside your window. Mediterranean flavors are like bottled sunshine, bursting with the freshness of citrus, seafood, and olive oil. The Black Olive in Fells Point is a hidden gem that captures these flavors and serves them all year long. Close your eyes and imagine yourself lounging by the sea, fork in hand, as each bite takes you further from the frost and closer to the sun.
Yes, the windows are fogged up from the cold outside, but who says you can’t turn your space into a personal summer retreat? Start with the details—swap heavy winter tones for bright whites, sun-kissed blues, and breezy neutrals. Add in a splash of greenery—palms, ferns, anything lush. A citrus-scented candle? Absolutely. Play some bossa nova or reggae in the background, and let your senses take over.
There’s something about a crisp glass of wine that can make the coldest day feel like a breezy summer evening. Winter might tempt you to stick to full-bodied reds, but it’s time to shake things up. Try a light Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Greek Assyrtiko, both perfect for mimicking those hot, languid summer afternoons. Pair it with seafood, or go solo—either way, every sip is like a cool breeze off the ocean, refreshing your senses. If you find yourself near Fells Point, The Black Olive’s extensive wine selection is the perfect escape. With each glass, the historic cobblestone streets fade away, and you’re suddenly in a Greek taverna. It’s a subtle, indulgent way to leave winter behind, even if only for an evening.
Stay with me here—embracing winter can help you escape it. How? By bundling up, heading outside, and allowing the wintery landscape to transport you to another kind of beautiful, crisp world. Imagine walking along a snow-covered path, hot chocolate in hand, but instead of focusing on the cold, think about how the snow sparkles like sand under the sun. A stretch? Maybe. But sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perception to find a bit of summer hidden within winter.
There’s no better way to escape to summer than to start planning your next great adventure. Research beach getaways, hike through Instagram-perfect trails, or start creating your dream summer itinerary. The anticipation itself is a kind of escape. You’re mentally packing your suitcase, already feeling the sun on your skin as you scroll through photos of tropical paradises or scenic coastlines.
Whether you're dining at The Black Olive in Fells Point or simply sprucing up your living room with a summery vibe, these small escapes can bring back that sun-soaked feeling—no matter what the thermometer says. Explore our menu or come visit us today!
