International Travel During a Pandemic, Turks!!

posted in: Uncategorized | 18

Its not like me not to journal my “Dora the Explorer” adventures, so although I may not share with all- you are the select few who know my personality and love me for me unconditionally. “Don’t Judge”, a shirt I brought for the occasion, lol

So far Hashem is in the drivers seat, a small heart attack at the airport for me with the dating of the Covid test. Turks says test on Monday for Saturday travel day, within 5 days is the requirement. My AZ gate agent questioned that I was one day off and after a calm on my part negotiation explanation, she gave me the green light sticker and said she hoped I didn’t run into problems later today. I immediately went on Trip Advisor and read that United would have denied my boarding, but thankfully Delta & American interpret within 5 days as such. Oy Oy. Deep breath! I was in a bit of a panic on the first flight, praying for no issues in Dallas. After talking to my partner in crime, Jules calmed me and provided reassurance. I do believe we have many angels traveling with us. I mean we both survived Elephant poop water in Thailand, we will survive our dreamy vacation together! 

I am now on the Dallas bound flight to dreamland. I have an entire row to myself, as flight is only 25% full. The cutest family of 4 is in the rows next to me, they are from North Dakota and its the first time out of the Country for their kids. All such happy energy, excited to be using their passports for the first time. They are going to Beaches Resort for 1 full week. A peaceful 3.5 hour flight awaits. 

OMG, a weekend rental to watch, i had already seen, but recalled enjoying it and found it more inspiring the second time. Checkout, “Collateral Beauty”- starring Wil Smith and Kate Winslet- an incredibly touching movie about the depths of life, my favorite topics. Its about the intellectual concepts of Love, Time, and Death. I smiled, cried, and felt SO good inside. Life is a precious gift, tomorrow is never promised- we only have this very moment. I will be soaking up each moment with an added sparkle in my eye and extra warmth in my heart. Touchdown in 30 minutes……

Wow….an understatement!! Add Turks & Caicos to your must visit bucket list. Upon arrival the immigration lady was the most friendly of any international stamper! Welcome to a peaceful island where first class service is the normal language. I walked outside and was greeted by my true Soul Sister Cousin Julie. We ran to eachother with a huge embrace. Both in such disbelief that we are really here and this adventure is actually happening in our reality of 2021. Pinch us!!! 

We aboard a van with Carla, she has lived on the Island her entire life. She assures us  we landed in heaven and will never want to leave. Honestly, as I type this we are considering how we can extend a few days, in my dreams! We arrive to Club Med. Temperature check as we disembark (they scan your wrist- a first) and we are welcomed with grapefruit water. We enter the grounds which are dreamy! Palm trees, a cotton candy sunset in the distance, negative edge pool, funky inviting lighting, ping pong tables, music, bars, people, the scenery is out of a magazine – dreamy. 

We are for sure related, both ready to get organized and unpacked for the week. All set in room 1118, for those who don’t know we are both born in November and 18 is a lucky Hebrew number “for life”. Good vibes and signs surround us….we put on bathing suits and head out as its tropical weather. Yes, my hair is curly and full…..we make our way to Sharkies for happy hour cocktails. We toured the property, took a ton of photos as we cant believe this is OUR reality! 

Sharkie’s is the place to be……we ate so much- yummy wings, quesadillas, fish tacos, and cocktails. Great conversations about life’s current events! Serious catch up…..we saw each other last in September, not that we don’t talk daily, lol 😂 I constantly pinch myself that I am SO blessed to have this bond with my first cousins, but especially this 13 year younger soul sister. It would be like Whitney and Sophie traveling together in the future.  Wild, crazy, and a treat from our grandparents in all reality. We walked out to the beach in the dark, holy soft sand. I cannot wait for tomorrow. Its peaceful, quiet, and the most serene setting.

We then got dressed in the theme for the night, “White & Blue “ night. Made our way to dinner….We ate too much to report, its like a cruise ship. We started with a yummy soup, tried these aricini balls, cheese plate, caesar chicken salad, pizza, pasta, steak, etc. I mean serious over eating took place along with a bottle of wine and more cocktails. Don’t worry…..the gym and constant classes and activities will make up for it, we hope!!! Thats the plan, as I did leave out dessert , lol Yummy lemon meringue, chocolate tart, and these to die for short bread cookies. Ha ha

The best way to end the night is the entertainment. We honestly are at a sleep away camp for adults. Dancers, musicians, singers, lets get the party started. Tonight we sat and observed, I do plan to participate tomorrow. It was fun hip happening energy. The best part is all these happy service people called G.O.’s. If you have been to Club Med, they at Great Organizers. The lingo around her….most from Montreal, some France, Mexico, etc. Ill keep you posted, as i like to learn names and stories. 

We are having the best time, and so glad to be safe and sound fast asleep for Julie while I type. I will update you again soon. Planning for a full day tomorrow in paradise!

Hugs and Kisses 

Laurie Sue xo

AKA Dora

18 Responses

  1. Aaron

    Lucky. A real vacation. Haven’t had one in way too long. Enjoy.

    • CUJ

      …your scaring moments at the airport adds to the wonderful memories you’re making on this trip to heaven. Apparently G-d was on a return flight and had an arm around your waist. I am accustomed to getting selfies from you atop a mountain, overlooking a golf course when you go for your long walks. I am looking forward to the ocean water and sunset skies… just limit your calorie intake to 20,000 per day. When the weather is perfect, the sun is shining, you have an appetizer in your hand, and a drink next to your lounge chair, raise your glass for me… to let me know heaven is treating you and Julie well 🙂 Enjoy breakfast! Love YCUJ

      • lauriesue

        Love your replies always! Pictures coming up 😇🧚🏻‍♀️💫

  2. Felisa

    Have the most amazing time and WATCH OUT for those G.O’s, I know them all too well…especially if his name is Kiwi or Alberto😉

  3. Audrey

    Your trust in the universe has definitely come through., considering your airline adventure. The pics are just gorgeous. That sunset is amazing. I look forward to hearing lots more fun stories after you & Jules participate in the activities. You girls look like you live there. Enjoy your cocktails…..
    XO Mommy/ Aunt A

  4. Vince

    Your descriptive words bring alive your emotions and scenes. All those that partake in your journal will have moments of envy but mostly joy – For you and Julie are experiencing life and vigor in a time the world is full of caution and rules.
    Cheers – thanks for letting us share in living your dream!

  5. Emi

    I am happy that you still are traveling. I am ready for our trip when you are.

  6. Rachel

    Hey, everyone needs a scary airport experience once in their life. I should know. Lol 😂. I’m so impressed you stayed calm, unlike the tears streaming down your face in Cambodia. Looks like it worked.

    Gorgeous, fun adventure awaits. Enjoy and celebrate. 2021 is off to great start for Julie and Laurie!

  7. Stephenne Berger

    I am beyond jealous yet oh so happy for you! Thank you for keeping me in this small email adventure group. I love reading every word and imagine myself with you. This is definitely on my bucket list. Happy travels and I can’t wait to hear more. ❣️

  8. sheila

    Love youu Laurie, syay safe. Can’tt wait ffor yyou next dail adventure!

  9. LINDA BARZILAI

    MAZEL TOV ON YOUR SAFE ARRIVAL IN PARADISE. THE PHOTOS ARE BREATHTAKING. YOUR LIFE’S JOURNEY HAS PLACED YOU IN A PART OF THE WORLD WHICH ENJOYS NATURE’S PERFECTION. NO ONE DESERVES IT OR COULD APPRECIATE IT MORE THAN DADDY’S GIRL. I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU TO HAVE WONDERFUL ADVENTURES AND DREAMS COMING TRUE, ESPECIALLY WITH JULIE…ENJOY EVERY MOMENT AND USE ALL YOUR SENSES TO TAKE IN THIS GLORIOUS DESTINATION. luv, ldb

  10. Michael Golden

    FUN!! Favorite phrase: “cotton candy sunset.”

    Great trip update!! Go have more…FUN!!

  11. lauriesue

    Thank you for all the commentary!! We both love the replys!

  12. Stephen Davidson

    what an adventure. I think I went to a club med there several decades ago when travel was less of a scare. You are brave.

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