What an amazing surprise to wake up Christmas morning, singing the famous song Feliz Navidad when your parents give you meaning to sing the song: a trip to Grand Cayman and Mexico!
New Year's Eve would be so much fun while traveling on the Carnival cruise ship's Paradise. I had already been on a cruise before so of course I was excited…I just did not expect much to be different. I was so wrong.
The first day was crazy and hectic-like expected. The next day out to sea was definitely more than I expected. The shows were absolutely breathtaking, the food was fresh and delicious, and I always kept myself entertained with something.
The next day was Grand Cayman. Personally, I'm not much of a beach person so this destination I did not believe I would enjoy much. I soon realized this was not the case. I wanted so badly to go into a plastic ball that I could be trapped inside and walk across the sea water-only a few feet out, of course. However, my parents proposed a new idea. Why not try the banana boat? At first, I thought to myself what a waste of time. Fortunately, my mother made me go as it would provide her with entertainment if my brothers and I went.
It only takes me ten seconds to be pulled out to sea on a banana by a jet ski and I realize my mother was right. So much better than a plastic ball! It's the craziest feeling, being pulled on a banana where all the salt water comes crashing into my face and all over my body. It hurts a little but the rush of it all was totally worth every minute of it. The risk of falling into the deep ocean water, the water-like torpedoes that are shooting out at me, just the pure excitement of it all was exhilarating.
After amazing sun, sand and banana boats, the day is complete and I am exhausted. Yet I am so excited for what is to come tomorrow. Tomorrow we will arrive in Cozumel, Mexico.
I have been a Spanish student for three years now and I am finally ready to test out my skills. Unfortunately, when I get there most of the citizens speak English. Luckily, after hours of shopping at great prices and spending time with my grandparents and the rest of my family, the day has been amazingly spent. I only wish I had more time to eat more of the authentic Mexican food!
Finally, I realize my dream vacation is almost over. After another day at sea, the only highlight of the trip back was the forty-foot waves.
That's the size of four stories!
Then I realize one more important thing about this vacation. About a month later, my grandpa passes away and I am so thankful for this time I was able to spend with him. It was on this trip in Mexico that his last picture was taken. It was taken in Paradise. He was so happy and I am so happy and grateful that he was able to be with us on this vacation. I know he enjoyed it as much as I did.
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