It's hard enough packing for a vacation when you're not familiar with the climate in your destination. It's even harder when the temperature in that place is recorded using the Celsius (or Centigrade) scale, and you're accustomed to using Fahrenheit. Unless you're one of those people who can do this equation for the Celsius to Fahrenheit conversion, 9/5 (C+ 32) , in their head (and honestly, can anyone?) you, like me, will need a better system.

I have memorized just a few key numbers as a guide. Freezing, 32 degrees F, of course is 0 C. 20 would require a light jacket or sweater, by 25 you'll be taking that off. And 30 degrees C would be that sweltering hot day when it's just miserable to be outside. So how do I remember this since I can't do the equation? Mnemonics of course... little hints to help me remember. Here we go and please don't laugh at me.

Okay, it's pretty silly sounding, but it works for me. Practice these a few times and you'll know what to grab when you leave the hotel room. Speaking of the hotel room, the only other temperatures I try to remember are where to set the thermostat. If you have air conditioning in your hotel room 25 C is a comfortable temperature to start with, and then adjust according to your own likings. In the winter, an average indoor temperature is 20 C.

Today, as I write this, the temperature in Stresa is 4 C. Better bring that coat.

If you do need a more precise conversion, also helpful when reading recipes, here's a Fahrenheit to Celsius Converter.


Graphic from Quote.com