For almost 6 years, we’ve lived in fear. We’d do anything to avoid it. We’d take city breaks and visit galleries and fancy restaurants. We’d head to the mountains for skiing and cozy nights in front of the fire. We’d gamble in Vegas, wine taste in Napa, take a tour of historic Charleston. Anything, anywhere to stay away from the beach vacation.

The last beach vacation we took was on our honeymoon, almost six years ago. We went to Mauritius, a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa. It’s noted for unspoiled beaches, friendly locals and not much to do but wile away the hours poolside, drinking cocktails and remembering to turn every half hour to keep the tan even. Well, that’s usually what it’s noted for. Here are some photos to show you what our experience of Mauritius was like:

First, the skies darkened

Then the winds whipped up

And up some more….

And before we knew it, were in the middle of a full-blown cyclone. The worst the island had seen in 20 years, in fact

So instead of lying by the pool, we played pool

And enough table tennis to almost qualify for the Olympics…

Then there was the night the air conditioning broke. It was all too much for Tom’s English constitution.

So after 3 days in hotel lock-down; having to barricade our room’s patio door with towels to soak up all the water that was coming in; and our flight being delayed for two days… we were pretty much committed to NEVER TAKING A BEACH VACATION AGAIN!

But here we are, six years later and finally ready to get back in the saddle. We’re heading to Costa Rica tomorrow. The forecast is for sunshine and 90 degree temperatures. But I’ll believe it only when I’m lying on white sand, sipping a cocktail. And if not, I’m pretty sure I’m ready to kick Tom’s ass at table tennis again….

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