|
|
|
|
|
Spicy Travels 2 - Moonlight Dance Adventure |
|
C.J. Gustafson, Freelance Writer and Photographer
I personally don't think I'm much of a romantic. I'm pretty realistic, straightforward, and sometimes even cynical. My friends agree, but add that underneath that tough, no-nonsense exterior, I'm a romantic to the core. Okay, let's just say I'm not sappy about it. Or at least not usually, but Cozumel just brings out aspects of people's personalities that seldom find expression elsewhere.
Because my last trip to the island was partially for work, I took my laptop along. One night while staying at a hotel in town, I grabbed it and headed for the beach area and a chair to relax in. It was nighttime, so I wasn't going to write. I wanted the laptop so I could play a cd of Spanish guitar music while I stared at the stars and thought about nothing. I had purchased the cd specifically for this trip and was glad I had. It was rhythmic and romantic, and captured the mood of the island perfectly.
Because Carnaval was going full blast, there were lots of people in town, but I had the beach to myself until I noticed a dark-haired man leaning on the lagoon wall, looking out over the ocean and obviously enjoying the music too. When he noticed me looking, he smiled, said he liked the music, that it was a good idea, and did I mind if he listened. I told him that was fine and we enjoyed several more songs, lost in our own little worlds before he came over, introduced himself as Juan, and then asked me to dance.
These are the times in your life where you have to tell yourself that times like these seldom come along in life and you can't let them slip by because you're embarrassed or nervous or afraid. The streets were full of people, the request was innocent enough, and the night was beautiful. So what the hell, I danced with Juan, barefoot in the sand, under the stars and moon on a Caribbean island. I've said it before; I'm no fool.
Before too long, another couple wandered out. After a moment they turned to leave, as if not wanting to intrude, but I invited them to stay and enjoy the music with us. Eventually two more couples and several of the hotel staff joined us and it became a small party. Juan and I visited with the others, I restarted the cd, and we all danced and enjoyed the perfect night. Eventually it grew late and people began to drift off. I politely but firmly declined Juan's requests for extended companionship before heading up to my room.
I gave the cd of Spanish guitar songs to Jaun as a thank you for his company and kindness. And as soon as I got back to Minnesota, I went to Wal-Mart and bought the same exact one. I play it on clear, starry nights and think about the amazing things that seem to only happen on Cozumel, especially if you have the right mood music.
C.J. |
Other Interesting Perspectives and Tips by CJ you might Enjoy!
|
|
Spicy Travels - Introduction |
Romance, adventure, good food, hot dancing, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences on the island of Cozumel! |
|
Spicy Travels 1 - The Iguana Adventure |
He's little, he's cute, he doesn't bite me, and he eats mosquitoes and other bugs. I'm on a Caribbean island with no worries. Let it go. It is all part of the adventure - but what an experience! |
|
Spicy Travels 3 - Language Learning Adventure |
My adventure reminded me that there is common ground when it comes to language on Cozumel, with both tourists and locals wanting to learn how to better communicate. |
|
Spicy Travels 4 - Barracuda Adventure |
Suddenly I saw a large shadow move across the ocean floor and I looked over expecting to see another snorkeler swimming alongside. |
|
Travel Tip 1 - Cozumel is a State of Mind |
There's something about a Caribbean island that is just fundamentally different from the rest of the world. This definitely true of Cozumel! |
|
Travel Tip 2 - Always Bring Music |
I've learned through my travels that music can set the tone and enhance the enjoyment of almost any activity on the island. |
|
Travel Tip 3 - Learn Spanish |
Although many people on the island speak English quite well, there have been numerous instances where I was glad to know some Spanish. |
|
Travel Tip 4 â€" Explore Cozumel’s Underwater World |
Don't let fear of the unknown keep you from experiencing Cozumel's beautiful underwater world. This truly is one of the most unforgettable aspects of the island and there is more than one way to experience this! |
|
Photo Tips - Introduction |
The endless supply of subjects, the beautiful lighting, and constant activity make photograhing Cozumel basically effortless |
|
Photo Tips 1 - Cozumel Sunsets |
Cozumel has some of the most beautiful sunsets to be found on earth. Here are some tips on capturing them! |
|
Photo Tips 2 - Hit the Tourist Spots |
Don't avoid the tourist spots completely because they provide some good photo opportunities as well as fun activities - all in one location! |
|
Photo Tips 3 - Walk Don't Ride (At Least Part of the Way) |
It has been my experience that very rarely do you get good Cozumel pictures riding in the back seat of a taxi cab. |
|
Photo Tips 4 - San Miguel & the West Coast |
Taking pictures in town can be a bit of a challenge because there is usually so much activity. But that's what makes it so interesting! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Copyright 2000 - 2024 Sherri Davis, All Rights Reserved. Contributors retain the copyright to their work. Please do not take art or written content without permission. Other graphics and reference materials are used and attributed as per the Fair Use Provision of The Copyright Act and individual terms of use.
|
|