We're usually not as open minded as we like to think.

Keeping an open mind helps you discover new places and people that surprise and delight you. It happened to me over the last 6 weeks and I want to share that story with you.

Northumberland - the North East

Earlier this year I decided to buy a house in Northumberland and took over ownership in July. People in 'The South' will tell you plenty of things about 'The North'. I'm sure the same is true the other around.

With those expectations and my own, we made our way here and everything blew me away.

The people are exceptionally friendly, kind and helpful. They're interested in our story and share any recommendation they have to help us settle in.

The region is stunningly beautiful with long, sandy beaches you have almost to yourself. There are many hiking routes, river paths, cute towns and villages.

The weather. You'd think it's grey and rainy but we've had 6 weeks here so far and hardly any rain.

The air is fresh and clean. It's not scorching hot, but warm enough to feel like a proper summer.

On top of that I wake up every morning thinking "wow, this is really our house!" (because it's amazing!).

What all of this taught me is this:

You won't know what a place and its people are really like unless you spend time experiencing it and getting to know people.

Judging people based on the opinions of others isn't a good idea.

And finally: Northumberland is a hidden gem, the best kept secret of the UK and I hope it stays that way for a long time to come.