Most people feel better in summer. We are more likely to be active and out of doors, and the sunshine lifts our mood, especially if we are on holiday. But there is a balance. While a holiday helps us relax and recharge our batteries, for some people it can also be an opportunity for unprotected sex or risky amounts of alcohol. So clear messages about benefits and risks are important, especially now that we are all working more closely with public health colleagues to encourage our patients to make healthy choices.