A Private Cabana

I’m walking along the cushiony sand; my toes disappearing beneath the granules. The crashing waves to my left capture my attention and I look to see a wide ocean of blue, complete with a colorful balloon hovering above the water below; an anxious or excited parasailer looking down into the depths.

The large white cruise ship sits in the distance, providing the perfect postcard shot; however, my sights are now set on the miniature, intimate house that I will take up residence in for the next few hours. Its green exterior blends in with the atmosphere surrounding me. My parents, sister, and I set down our things and are welcomed by a man carrying fruit and drinks; he fills our refrigerator and kindly explains the delicacies he has brought us.

My eyes wander over the plate of fresh, juicy strawberries; plump grapes that create an explosion in your mouth when bitten into; slices of kiwi and honeydew that provide your taste buds with a welcoming hello.

Stripping out of my shorts and tank top, I step out onto the deck and breathe in the air around me. Reaching for my sunscreen, I apply a generous amount before sinking my toes back into the sand and setting up shop on my towel for a bed. The sun beats down on me and I can feel the heat penetrating my skin; a welcomed feeling that helps me to relax and enjoy my time in this tropical haven.

The birds make themselves known as they vocalize themselves while flying overhead; a welcomed sound that helps to add to the beach bum attitude I’m currently sporting. The Bahaman breeze feels warm, as if it and the sun are working close together to make me feel completely and utterly relaxed.

My body starts to cry out for some sort of relief; it burns from the sun exposure. Stepping into the waters of Half Moon Cay, I feel instant relief against my skin. I wade out until I’m chest deep into the water, not fearful of what lies beneath me. My eyes break through the transparent waters as it ripples around my body. My feet kick up and suddenly I am on my back, floating through ocean. I can hear laughter and screams from far away, alerting me of the other beachgoers; I simply smile and fall back into my floating heaven.

Quenching my body of its thirst, the only thing left parched is my mouth. I make my way back to our little cabana home and greeting me are the lush strawberries that beat a vibrant red on the plate. Grabbing its green stem, I bit into it and am immediately satisfied. A bottle of water waits in the cooler as I twist off its top and drink it down. My mom joins me at the small table; a tray of salsa and guacamole stares back at us, along with the bowl of chips. Unable to say no, we eagerly partake in the special treat.

As the day progresses and time slips away, we pack up our things and bid adieu to Half Moon Cay. Taking my final steps off the small deck, I hate to see it go. With my bag on my shoulder, we walk back to our stop, leaving our small private cabana behind.

Recommendations: Travel Movies and Travel Books

If you are a travel lover like me, you probably find yourself watching and reading anything related to travel. Much of my Goodreads list is composed of either books dedicated to historical events, specifically World War II, or you guessed it…travel books. Whether it is a memoir, a piece of fiction, non-fiction, or a book compiled of short stories, I’m interested in reading it.

Now, when I’m not reading, I love watching movies, so while my taste in film include comedies, action, dramas, and even a few horror and rom-com flicks, what matters most to me is a good, solid story.

I’m hoping to use this post as a chance for all of us to recommend and share our favorite travel books and movies. It is always a joy for me to learn what other people are reading and watching. So without further ado, here are my favorites…

BOOKS:

“Eat, Pray, Love”: Some of you may say this was a typical “travel writer” dream/fantasy book, but I loved it. I don’t know how many times I sat on a plane and saw someone reading this book. I held off for quite some time as I figured it would be one of those “everyone reads it but it’s only a mediocre book” kind of reads; however, I decided to see the movie and quickly decided that I had to read the book. Elizabeth Gilbert is an author, writer, traveler and pretty good story-teller if you ask me. Having been to Rome, I immediately grew interested in her experience and time there. Traveling through Italy, India, and Bali, I found myself wishing I could follow in her footsteps and experience exactly what she did that life-changing year she spent away. Although I wasn’t the biggest fan of the whole divorce/woe-is-me/finding love aspect of the book, the details of each destination and experiences helped to make up for all of that.

“By the Seat of My Pants”: Donald George has compiled numerous short stories by travel writers who have experienced some humorous, eye-opening, and even somewhat dangerous adventures while traveling the world. At times, I found myself literally laughing out loud at these stories. Some of the stories you can expect to find are a man’s experience with a “friendly” taxi driver in Prague, a couple’s experience of staying in a tent on an animal reserve in Africa, and even a man’s unlucky experience of being trapped in a Dutch men’s bathroom. If you want a quick read that will have you laughing, you must check out this book.

“Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”: Okay, if you read my review on Goodreads, you will probably wonder why this is on my list of favorite travel-like books. Mainly, I loved the movie but somewhat disliked the book; however, I LOVED the portrayal of Savannah, Georgia. Having never been to Savannah, the way that John Berendt describes the city, the people, and the atmosphere; I’m ready to jump on a plane and go experience it all for myself. I’ve always wanted to go to Savannah and sit on someone’s porch and sip some sweet tea (that’s what I imagine) but I imagine the moss hanging from the trees, the big white plantation homes, and of course, the southern charm of the people. In my opinion, Berendt drags the story along for far too long, but he does a fabulous job of making you a part of Savannah culture and making you wish you had that southern drawl and were sporting a wide-brimmed hat.

MOVIES:

“Eat, Pray, Love”: I won’t go into detail since I did above. But let me just say that I love Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem is seriously growing on me so yes, I loved this movie.

“Chocolat”: Okay, for all you women, if the title doesn’t entice you, then maybe the mention that Johnny Depp is in this film will do the trick. Set in a small village in France, Vianne and her daughter, Anouk open a small chocolate store, which is located across the main square from the town church. Opening her shop during the time of Lent, the church’s priest and many of the townspeople resent her efforts to entice the community with her chocolates. However, her efforts are not in vain when the people of this tiny French village learn to let-go a bit and enjoy the finer and sweeter things in life.

“Mamma Mia”: Yes, this is by far one of my favorites. I just recently saw the play for the first time and loved it. Not only do you see the gorgeous country of Greece, but you will have a hard time staying in your seat when you heard the great songs of Abba. Sophie and her mother Donna live on a small island of Greece. Sophie is getting married but wants to find her dad, which could be three possible men whom her mother had some wild times with back in the 70s. Upon their arrival, hilarity ensues as Donna struggles to deal with her past while her daughter works to find out which man she can call “dad.”

“Schindler’s List”: In 1993, Steven Spielberg created a movie so true, so realistic, and so heartbreaking, that anyone who can sit through it and not be touched by Oskar Schindler and his story must be lacking a heart and emotion. Filmed in Poland and Jerusalem, movie watchers get an intimate look into the world in which so many Jews experienced loss, terror, and death. Spielberg filmed outside the gates of Auschwitz-Birkenau; an entrance that led to the deaths of millions of Jews, homosexuals, and gypsies just to name a few. This movie will not only provide you with a historical lesson of the Holocaust, but it will provide you with a look into the county of Poland and the terror that rained upon it during World War II.

“South Pacific” (1958): Although this was filmed in Hawaii and Spain, you certainly get the feel of being in the South Pacific with all of the lush green scenery and vibrant blue oceans. This movie tells the story of an American nurse (from Arkansas—my home state!) who falls in love with a Frenchman who is involved in a secret military mission. With songs dedicated to Bali Hai, you can’t help but wish you were sailing to this magical and exotic island.

What are some of your favorites?

A Car Full of Girls, A Pot Full of Chocolate, and A Farting Elephant

This past August, my four best girlfriends and I decided to take a little road trip six hours north to the great city of St. Louis. Having family from that particular area, I have grown up absolutely loving this city. Spending time down on the river, listening to the great music in the parks, and watching the great fireworks show during the Fourth of July are all wonderful memories that I have of this enjoyable city. With all of this previous knowledge of the area, my friends and I agreed that it would be a great road trip for us.


Unfortunately, due to finances and other personal reasons, this was the first road trip my friends and I have taken since we graduated high school almost eight years ago. Now, we are not these wild and crazy kinds of girls but we certainly know how to have fun, and the car ride was no exception. One thing we all agreed on was that none of us had ever seen so many adult stores on the side of road in our lives. I bet I counted at least 50 on the six hour drive. Considering that we left around 8:00 that Friday morning, by the time we started seeing these lovely roadside treasures, multiple cars were already in their parking lots. It reminded me of the cars I see parked outside of the liquor store before it opens in the morning.

When we weren’t laughing hysterically over the adult stores we passed, we spent our time rocking out and reminiscing to songs of the 80s and 90s, reading Cosmopolitan and Glamour, and of course, engaging in the ever popular “girl talk.” This usually consists of drudging up memories of high school and all of the ridiculous and unnecessary drama, as well as what is going on in our current lives, which of course means work, and for two of us who are single…our non-existent “love lives.”

By the time we reached St. Louis, which is a fairly easy and semi-pretty drive; it was early afternoon. Our hotel was right across from Busch Stadium; however, there was no Cardinal game that weekend so the parking lot remained vacant. After checking in, the four of us were ready to hit the pool. Unfortunately, to our dismay, the only pool the hotel had was indoors and the water was 80 DEGREES!!! Now, here it was, late August and the only pool in the entire hotel was INSIDE with sauna-like temperatures…no thanks.

Seeing as we were planning an easy night, we opted to chill out for a while before heading down to the Jazz Festival that was taking place just a few blocks down from where we were staying. Once again, unfortunately, the festival had yet to start and there wasn’t much around, so we walked another few blocks to Union Station and ate dinner at The Hard Rock Café. Now, what I failed to tell you is that considering all of these places were within walking distance to our hotel, it took much longer than we had expected. I wasn’t too familiar with this particular area so we relied on my friend’s GPS that was on her phone. Apparently, that proved a bit more difficult than we had thought. All in all, we made it there and had a deliciously good dinner.



I'm in the middle

Now, if you visit the great city of St. Louis, you MUST go to the St. Louis Zoo. Not only is it quite large, but it has a wide array of animals and can be loads of fun for four young girls on a weekend getaway trip. Not only were there adorable little penguins, dressed to the nines in the cute tuxedos, but the seals, giraffes, gorillas, and zebras were all quite entertaining to watch. However, the best part of that day had to be the elephant exhibit.

I have to ask…have any of you ever heard an elephant fart? I’m not kidding, in fact, I’m dead serious. We spotted this beautifully large creature just enjoying the sunny day, minding her own business and not paying any attention to the crowd gathering around. Standing there, my friends and I took pictures and waited to see if she would give us a glimpse of her face. Suddenly, we start to see food flying into the elephant area and the voice of a trainer/zookeeper. That giant, grey behemoth turned around and made her way towards the delicacy lying on the ground. After eating a bit and doing some tricks, we were graced with the lovely sound of what sounded like a trumpet.



The Farting Elephant



“What was that?” I asked my friends, with a somewhat laughable grin on my face. Looking around at each other, we burst into a fit of laughter and agreed with everyone around us that the elephant had indeed…farted. It was a first for me that is for sure. I’m proud to say I even have it on video 

Later that night, when we got all dolled up for a dinner out to The Melting Pot, we still couldn’t stop laughing about that elephant. I must say, for any of you who have never been to The Melting Pot, it is an ideal place if you are not in any hurry and enjoy the company around you. (Talk about awkward if you’re on a first date and it’s not going very well) Now…when you’re there, you must get all three courses: cheese, meat, and of course, what everyone goes there for…chocolate.


Me and my besties (I'm in the white top)

 Due to the fact that one of my friends is quite picky, we ended up with plain ol’ cheddar cheese fondue; however, it was still quite delicious. Next, came the shrimp, chicken, and steak fondue with a spicy little simmering sauce. With about four different dipping sauces, our entrée was divine. Of course, it always helps to have the veggies and potatoes to add to the meal...I love my taters hehe

And the portion of the meal that needs no introduction, the creamy, decadent, and lick-the-bowl goodness of chocolate, caramel and pecans; otherwise known as the Turtle fondue. With two plates of strawberries, pound cake, pineapple slices, marshmallows, rice krispies treats, and brownies for dipping, I was in heaven eating this stuff. (I would like to mention that during the meal, I popped two Excedrin migraines because if I eat too much cheese or chocolate, those pesky migraines hit me with a vengeance) I was more than happy to pop those pills those; especially for that yummy goodness.

The rest of the night was spent downtown near the riverboats, cozying up inside a piano bar, singing loudly to Journey songs and partaking in a drink or two. Since we were in Missouri, it was only natural that the piano players poked fun at the Arkansas people; something that didn’t set too well with me and my friends, but we’re nice enough to take it in stride. Continuing with the night, a short jaunt to the Four Seasons hotel and us gals were trying our hands at the slot machines and blackjack tables inside the casino. Now I love a good game of blackjack. With all the cruises I’ve taken, I’ve spent many nights sitting at a blackjack table, winning then losing, winning then losing…it’s a viscous cycle. However, don’t think that I have a gambling problem, I only play with a $20 bill…I guess Kenny Rogers wouldn’t qualify me for being “The Gambler.” 

By the time we left the following day, I was fortunate enough to have spent a weekend with my best gal pals and in a city that provides loads of fun without spending loads of money. Not only did I get a quick getaway weekend with my besties, but I got some fabulous memories, some deliciously and sinfully good food, and who could forget…video of the farting elephant!

Why Do YOU Travel?

I decided to stop and use this blog post to find out why so many of us travel. I always find it interesting to hear people talk about where they are going, how long they’ll be gone, and what they plan on doing, but the one thing I want to know most is, why?

Each of us has our reasons, whether it is to take a break from work, relax in some tropical region, go on an adventure, or for some, traveling allows them “to find themselves.” I’ve never been too sure of what that statement means but I guess if you think traveling will help you do that, go right ahead. For me, traveling is therapeutic. It gives me a chance to break away from everything that is deemed “normal” and actually experience something new and exciting.

I have been incredibly fortunate to have grown up with parents who believe that taking their kids on vacation is a necessity. Granted, I have spent many summer vacations in St. Petersburg, Florida; a relaxing destination that is a favorite of ours, yet, within driving distance to some of Florida’s best amusement parks. Besides a few smaller weekend getaways, my parents have never left my sister at me at home for a vacation. If you talk to my mom, she will always say that no matter how young we were, she couldn’t let us miss out on what the world offers. Some of my fondest memories are those of when I was very young, playing in the pool in Florida or digging for seashells on the beach. I owe my parents for giving me those experiences.

Another reason why I travel is to take in the history of these destinations. Anywhere you go, you can find history. Whether it is in a building, a book, or monument, history is everywhere. Now, some of you may not be as enthusiastic about history itself. You may have even hated learning about it when you were in school, but we all can appreciate what history has given us. On my trip to Europe this past summer, I was given the opportunity to see parts of history that I never thought I would ever see in my lifetime. Standing on Omaha Beach, visiting the Sistine Chapel, and even lurking around Casanova’s holding cell in Doge’s Palace in Venice—all of these are where history lived and continues to live today.

You see, for me, it is much like walking into an old archive and being given the chance to hold an old document. The faded writing, the fragile paper, and the significance of what it is you are holding in your hands; that feeling of awe and excitement in that moment is one that can never be replaced. These are the feelings I yearn for when I travel. To be inspired by the faded paintings and written text, to see and touch the fragile buildings and sidewalks that make up history, and most of all, to recognize and cherish the significance of that painting, that text, that building, or that sidewalk—that’s why I travel.

It disheartens me when I hear of others who are giving the opportunity to travel the world and yet, take their experience for granted. It doesn’t matter to them that they stand where hundreds of thousands of men and women, who have died for this country, lay in Arlington National Cemetery. It doesn’t matter to them that they are where nearly 3,000 innocent Americans lost their lives on September 11, 2001. It doesn’t matter to them that they are standing in the hall that ended World War I. It saddens me that these people can bypass, overlook, and even disregard the importance of the past.

I look at traveling as a chance to visit the places that have played a role in how we live today. The more we know about our past, the better prepared we are for our future. The day I stood on the hill of Robert E. Lee’s home, I looked out over the hills of perfectly manicured, green cut grass, and truly understood the ultimate price of freedom. There stood hundreds of thousands of white crosses, each engraved with a hero’s name. Suddenly, I felt inspired by the reason these men and women gave their lives for this country, I understood the significance of what each of those crosses stood for and the way they represent freedom for this country. Finally, I saw and felt how fragile a heart can be when realizing what the sight before them means.

I started this blog because I wanted to share my love for traveling. Whether or not it was just me reading it or thousands, I couldn’t hold these experiences in any longer. I have pictures and video to remind me of the beauty I have seen throughout my life (okay I’m only 25 so maybe not a long life), J but to be able to share my travels with others, and at the same time, share with you all, the importance of traveling…it brings a lot of joy to my life. This is something I want to do the rest of my life. One day when and if I get married and have children, I hope that I too can show them the wonders of this amazing and awe-inspiring world.

So tell me, why do YOU travel?

A Piece of Paris Beauty

When traveling through Paris, it is a must that sightseers visit the beauty that is Notre Dame. Not visiting this sight is like not visiting the Sistine Chapel while in Rome. This piece of Gothic, French architecture stands at well over 400 ft tall and has 422 steps for visitors to climb.

West Facade of Notre Dame

Don't think that 422 steps wasn't going through my mind when I learned that we would be climbing to the bell tower. This is why I suggest to anyone who wishes to visit Notre Dame, please do not do it on the same day you visit the Arc de Triomphe. Unless you have legs of steel and thrive on the gym's stair climber, you will regret doing them back to back. This was a lesson I learned the hard way on my little trip.

Nevertheless, the line that forms outside the cathedral, you will see is for all those willing to take on the 422 step task; all so you may see a breathtaking view of Paris, from atop the bell tower. Given that you will experience amazing views when atop the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomph, looking out onto the Paris skyline and streets below, when standing atop Notre Dame; it is a sight that every tourist should see.

When climbing your way to the top, you will travel upward in a spiral motion. If you are unsure as to why I mention this little tidbit, it is because when you get to moving on steps like these, especially ones that are so close together, you tend to find yourself climbing at an enormous rate. It is almost as if you feel you will fall forward if your feet don't keep up. A little over halfway up, I had to stop due to my lungs feeling like they were about to pop and my legs feeling as if they might buckle at any moment. Please do not read this and convince yourself that it is not worth it if you have to endure this kind of climb...I assure you, I did not die and after a few minutes of deep breathing and waiting, I finished the climb and was presented with a beautiful Paris view.

Stepping onto the bell tower area, your eyes take you immediately to the outward view, overlooking the west side of the cathedral. Those down below will see the two large towers standing before them, statues depicting Christian apostles, the bridge that connects the two towers, and the infamous west rose window.

For those standing atop the bell tower, the sights of the gothic gargoyles are enough to make some wince with fear, while others stare in awe of their beauty. Half man and half beasts, these creatures prove to be one of the most popular and notable aspects of the cathedral itself.

Moving along through the narrow walkways, you may get a small glimps of the bells that live in Notre Dame. Both towers have bells that are rung for holidays and/or church services. Don't expect a close look as there is only a small space that you  may look through. And unfortunately, you won't find Quasimodo standing in there preparing to ring the bell while yelling out the words, "SANCTUARY!"

South Rose Window

Making your descent down the steps, you once again, reach ground level and are now able to venture inside this ancient building. Naturally, the feel of peace and serenity overcome you and you are transported into a holy sanctuary where numerous historical and religious events took place. The great organ is the largest in France and sits in front of the west Rose window.

Visitors can find unique paintings, elegant furniture, and more statues inside the cathedral, such as The Pieta. The original is said to sit inside St. Peter's Basicilia in Rome, but a copy of it sits inside Notre Dame. A large cross sits behind a saddened Mary who is sitting with her arms open while a dying Jesus lays in her lap. In my humble opinion, it is one of the most powerful and humbling depictions I have ever seen. For anyone who is a Christian, this statue brings about a slew of emotions. Then, so does being inside one of France's greatest religious structures.

"The Pieta"

Leaving the cathedral, I felt a sense of excitement wash over me, realizing that I had just been inside such a historical place. If you haven't gathered by this point, history and I go hand in hand. To be able to visit these historical sights and actually see and feel the places where so many historical figures stood, you can't replace that feeling or memory. Even for those who are not history buffs like me, Notre Dame provides so much for visitors to see and experience...even if part of that experience is climbing 422 steps!

A List for the New Year

Last year has come and gone and it is only natural to embrace the possibilities that 2011 has in store for each and every one of us. I don’t know about you, but I was most certainly not sad when 2010 came to an end. Yes, there were happy and glorious times (my graduation and amazing European trip), but the amount of stress I put on myself…I am never more happy to see it behind me.

One thing I have learned during my hardships of 2010 (and even dating back several years before then), was that every hardship I face is there for a reason. I firmly believe that life will always throw curveballs at us, and sometimes those curveballs will take us to a place we never thought we would ever see; however, through God’s graces, he will always see us through it. I had to constantly remind myself that “what does not kill me makes me stronger.” I’m still alive so, I’m only hoping now that what I have dealt with and experienced in my past will only help to make me stronger in the coming year.

So, in regards to the New Year, I have decided to start fresh…in many areas of my life. Not only am I following in the same resolutions as much of the world (losing weight and exercising), but I am going to make more time for God, so that I can have a deeper and closer relationship with him. In no way do I wish to force this notion upon anyone else, but for me personally, it is something that has been a long time coming and the time is now. Seeing as I will dedicate the time to work on my spiritual and physical health, I also wish to work on my aspirations and “goals” if you will.

For those of you who have seen “Eat, Pray, Love” you will remember that Julia Roberts claims to have a box, under her bed, full of the various destinations she hopes to travel to one day. I have decided to do the same. I may not have a box, but I have a brain and I figure that as long as I make a list than I’m good to go.

However, I’m not naïve in thinking that all of the places I wish to see will be easy tasks to fulfill. For travelers, not only do you have to have the want and desire to travel, but you have to have the need, the determination, and of course…money. Due to the fact that my current income is quite small, it may take me some time before I can begin to actually travel to these places. However, I will get there one day.

So…without further ado, here is a list of places I hope to travel to in my lifetime (Over time, the list will grow much longer…I am sure of it):


Dublin, Ireland
London, England
Edinburgh, Scotland
Auckland, New Zealand
Prague
Munich/Berlin, Germany
Bali, Indonesia
Nanking/Hong Kong, China
Verona/Florence/Sicily/Naples/Milan, Italy

Manila, Philippines

Athens, Greece

Lisbon, Portugal

Moscow, Russia

Vancouver/Quebec/Montreal, Canada

Madrid and Barcelona, Spain

Morocco

Cannes/Monaco, France

Santiago, Chile

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Sydney, Australia

Papua New Guinea

Nepal

For anyone who has visited or even lives in these countries, I would love to hear from you. I would love to hear your stories, recommendations, advice, and anything else you would be willing to share. My list may seem far-fetched and unrealistic but like I said before, I do not expect to travel to each of these places every year. As a young, aspiring traveler, I realize it will take time and lots of hoping and praying in order for me to visit these destinations. However, what is the point of setting a goal and having a dream if you don’t plan to at least TRY and attempt to achieve that goal, right?

The Sounds of a Steel Drum Christmas

I would like to admit up front that Christmas is hands down, the best holiday of the year. While others dread the shopping, music, and enormous amounts of weight gain, I welcome it…all of it. Every year, our family celebrates the normal traditions by getting together, opening gifts, eating great food, and watching our all-time favorite Christmas movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. I have quite a few fond memories that I’ll always keep tucked away; however, one year in particular sticks out in my mind.

In 2007, my family and I decided to take a cruise at the beginning of December. We’ve always been a family of summer vacationers; however, that year, we decided to spice it up a bit and enjoy the warm climate at a time when everyone else we knew would be fighting the bitter cold.

I have to tell you…there’s nothing like cruising through the Caribbean and enjoying the hot sun in December. To see a cruise ship decked out in Christmas décor and hearing Christmas music being played…there’s just no better time to cruise if you ask me.  Our cruise ship was adorned with tall Christmas trees, lights, and garland; guests truly felt the holiday spirit when coming aboard. 

Enjoying the fact that I could slip into my bathing suit and bask in the sun, in the middle of December, I was anxious to arrive in our specified ports. I wanted to see just how countries in the Caribbean celebrated the holiday season.

One of the ports was St. Thomas. Having visited this beautiful island before, we knew what to expect. However, to see it decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and being able to watch school children dance and sing in the town’s center, it was quite a sight.

Megan's Bay in St. Thomas

We visited Megan’s Bay, as always, and enjoyed the hot sand and amazing view. I made sure to keep in the Christmas spirit by incorporating Christmas songs on my iPod. Listening to Bing Crosby and some of course, some Jimmy Buffett holiday music was just what I needed to relax and enjoy my visit to the Caribbean.

After spending most of our day on the beach, we found ourselves walking through the shopping square that was settled conveniently right outside the docking area of our boat. Dozens upon dozens of shops were open and available for tourists to open their wallets and pour out the money inside.

Overlooking St. Thomas

Since I wasn’t planning on buying everyone’s Christmas presents there in St. Thomas, I chose to keep my money tightly secured in my bag. However, a few little knick knacks came home with me, but no major spending on my part. This was one of those trips that simply walking around and admiring the sights and the locals were enough for me.

My thoughts were quite similar when we reached the island of St. Maarten. As soon as our boat docked, we were already dressed and ready to go with our swimsuits on and clothes to cover. The island itself was breathtaking, with sailboats, yachts, crystal blue waters, and homes that sat along the shoreline. This place was the epitome of the care-free lifestyle that so many of us wish we could have.

Just imagine…walking out onto your patio and looking out onto an ocean that goes for miles, water that allows you to see straight to the bottom, boats coasting up and down the shoreline with relaxed travelers aboard; it would be Heaven.

My sister and I on the ferry

Marigot

The ferry ride over to the French capital of Marigot allowed us to take in the sights of the island. It was agreed that if we were to ever win the lottery, not only would we buy a vacation home there, but another definite purchase would be one of the dozens and dozens of yachts that sit near the shore. Hmm…talk about the good life, huh?

Arriving at the island, we walked over a wooden walkway and into a quaint, little shopping area; one full of small outside diners and open markets. Cats walked up and down the market area, laying in the sun and enjoying the relaxed lifestyle that only an island in the Caribbean could give. Of course, if you’re a cat, you’re lifestyle is pretty laid back as it is.

After spending the afternoon in the city, we decided to grab some lunch. Luckily for us, the beach that we planned on spending the rest of our afternoon on was only a short distance away from various restaurants and more open markets (imagine that?)

My family at a dockside restaurant

Sitting at a little dockside restaurant, we waited for the deliciously good hamburgers to arrive. Not only did the outside table provide the perfect setting for an afternoon lunch, but the sun, the music, and of course, the view of the ocean only made it better.

Filling our bellies with food, the only thing that sounded good was chilling out and relaxing on the beach. Opting for the side of the island that allowed for tourists to keep their clothes on, we headed down to the warm sand and grabbed up a few lounge chairs. Throwing down my towel, I stripped down to my bathing suit and lathered on my lotion.

“Now this is how I could spend my Christmases from now on,” I leaned over to tell my sister.

“Agreed,” she replied back.

The beach we lounged on in St. Maarten

Laying there with the most perfect view, I relaxed back into my lounge chair and took in the beauty that is St. Maarten. Out of all of the islands I have ever visited in the Caribbean, St. Maarten has to be one of my ultimate favorites. It is quite hard to beat St. Thomas, but it ranks pretty high up there, if I’m being honest.

Locals walked up and down the length of the beach trying to sell homemade jewelry; one of which convinced my mom to buy a bracelet. My mom is such a sucker for that kind of stuff. I have to say, it was quite beautiful.

My sister and I swimming

Never wanting to leave the beauty that, that one particular beach in St. Maarten provided us; it was now time for us to head back to our cruise ship and bid farewell to the island. Begrudgingly, we walked along the soft, warm sand, and made our way towards a small boat that took us back to our cruise ship. Boarding the boat, we were greeted with the sounds of steel drum music; a sound that was heavenly to hear as it played to the tune of Christmas songs.

I remember sitting down, closing my eyes, and tilting my head back in an attempt to soak in the sounds of this unique and definitely favorable Christmas music. I immediately wanted to find out how I could get a CD with that kind of Christmas music. I may live in Arkansas but the sounds of the Caribbean could come with me and keep me company for any future holiday.

Unfortunately, I could not find what I was looking for, but in my mind, I can still hear the sounds of those steel drums and even though I’m in Arkansas and bearing the cold, I just close my eyes and I’m back in St. Maarten, enjoying the sun, the sand, and the steel drum bands.