Climbing memories: A special family moment Up at The O2
Jun 28 2025- Attractions
- Last Updated on 27 June 2025
- Monica Costa
They say the best views come after a climb – and in London, few climbs are more memorable than Up at The O2. This summer marked my fourth ascent, but it was the first time I did it with my son – making it extra special. Not only did we share the thrill of reaching the summit together, but we also recorded a heartfelt video message for my mum’s 80th birthday from the top. Cue the tears!
Summer is undeniably the perfect time for this rooftop adventure. The city stretches out in all directions – a dynamic patchwork of old landmarks and new towers, with Canary Wharf and South East London’s skyline ever evolving. Each time I’ve climbed (and yes, I keep coming back), there’s something fresh to spot: a new building, a hidden gem, or a quirky rooftop addition. It’s a brilliant reminder of how London never sits still.
Gig review: Olivia Rodrigo at BST Hyde Park 2025 – A Pop Star who’s closing the generation gap
Jun 28 2025- Attractions
- Last Updated on 28 June 2025
- Monica Costa
Last night, I joined 65,000 fans at London’s Hyde Park for a sun-drenched evening of music, emotion and girl power – courtesy of the sensational Olivia Rodrigo, with a surprise guest appearance from Ed Sheeran. It wasn’t just a concert. It was an intergenerational moment – and as a mum, it gave me all the feels.
Rodrigo, just 22, was utterly magnetic. From her glistening silver-sequinned stage look to the stripped-back intimacy of her piano ballads, she commanded the massive Great Oak Stage with confidence far beyond her years. She played the piano, guitar, and poured heart into every note of her 19-song set – not a missed beat or breath in sight.
Gig review: Billy Idol at Wembley – Still Dancing, Still Defiant, Still Our Rebel Yell Hero
Jun 25 2025- Attractions
- Last Updated on 25 June 2025
- Monica Costa
There are some gigs you wait a lifetime for – and on 24 June 2025 at London’s OVO Arena Wembley, mine finally arrived. Seeing Billy Idol live has been on my bucket list since the 1980s, when his peroxide sneer and punk snarl were the soundtrack to my teenage rebellion. I even dressed my cousin as a mini Billy Idol once – jelled blond hair, leather jacket, the lot. So yes, expectations were sky-high. But I can say with every ounce of sincerity: Billy delivered.
The It’s A Nice Day To… Tour Again! hit London like a lightning bolt, not just for nostalgia’s sake but as a thunderous reminder that Billy Idol isn’t just a relic of punk rock history – he’s still got it. At 69, he radiates the same punk swagger, albeit now with a self-aware wink. And that voice? Still strong, raspy, defiant – the rebel yell still roars.
