I believe we get the good and the bad from our ancestors. There was something about even London's gloomy weather that brought me a strange sort of comfort, maybe more like familiarity. We don't have anywhere near as many cloudy days in our part of the US but there was something about the gray and the mist there that drew me in and made me more introspective. It makes you want to find a nice cozy pub or have a cup of warm tea. I see why so many good writers came from that country. I've only been to a handful of other cities that resonated with me as much as London.
HiveFest does sound intriguing this year! I'm going to try my best to make it this time. If I am able to attend I'll probably make it part of a longer trip. I've been hearing a lot about Istanbul and may drop in and see what all the fuss is about. : )