“Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

Inn Batista

Typically, at some point during a trip, there is a definitive moment, something that serves as a representation or a symbol for the entire two weeks.

So, to use the classic cliché of first person storytelling, “there I was” – standing on the deck at the stern, feeling so deliciously on vacation.

It’s a can’t miss recipe for the sensation of complete refreshment, and I recommend it.

First, we headed into the old touristy section near the port and walked around in the heat and humidity. We shopped for gifts for the grandchildren in markets without air conditioning…

Then (once Rebekah had talked at length with almost ever vendor on the island) we returned to the ship, where I jumped into the swimming pool. After a while I climbed out, and – still dripping wet – leaned on the railing overlooking the Caribbean, catching the perfect Atlantic Trade Wind breeze blowing across the deck.

If I could bottle that sense of warm breeze on wet skin, both comfortable and invigorating at the same time, I’d be a wealthy man.

It was a good day. Rebekah and I lounged around most of the morning reading novels, before disembarking and heading into the local community.

We enjoyed a relaxed lunch on a breezy upstairs balcony downtown, and then completed our walking tour.

Later, Thursday evening’s live show featured a nothing short of amazing dance troupe along with some great music.

5 days in:

So this morning, five days into this twelve day adventure, I still have nothing to report but – as they say in the Navy – fair winds and following seas.

Stay tuned for Colombia and the Panama Canal, coming to this space soon. Peace and love – DEREK