Hello everyone! I trust this finds you very well and safe wherever you are!
This morning, our ship docked in Cyprus at the beautiful resort town of Larnaca. This southern Cyprian city must be a beach lover’s paradise in the hotter months with its palm trees lining the beach and its long boardwalk that stretches out forever. On the other side of the street there are quaint outdoor cafes, boutique hotels, outdoor markets, and shops selling lots of souvenirs, and anything you could ask for.
I imagine the streets and beach would be packed and lively on the tropical warm days. This late into November, there were only a handful of people cautiously walking into the ever cooling waters, with the umbrellas removed before the supper hour leaving only their poles jutting out of the sand.
The Rotterdam is the last cruise ship docking for the season in these waters, which must be a bit dispiriting for those who own shops, cafes or businesses, and rely on tourism for their income. Then again, they must welcome the break from the hustle and bustle of the busy summer season. Like a breath of fresh air, they can finally relax as well.
Today, Denise and I decided to head to the E Hotel Spa and Resort. This lovely boutique hotel was a taxi drive away from Larnaca in the gorgeous suburb of Pervolia. It would definitely be a place to stay when I return.
Not only is the spa top rated, but the resort has everything a person needs - tennis courts, swimming pools with underwater music, hot tubs, a clean and well equipped gym, facilities for conventions, an amazing restaurant with a delectable menu for food and wines, and from the brochures and the website, the rooms would allow you to sleep your cares away. Sigh!
This hotel is also located within walking distance to Kiti Beach along the Mediterranean Sea, and the Pervolia Lighthouse. If you decide to fly in, the international airport is only 6 miles away! I would definitely come back given the chance! Here's my tourist review for this letter!
So, this afternoon after coming from the spa and eating a delicious Greek meal at the hotel restaurant, we found a taxi back to Fouinikoudes Beach.
We had a wonderful driver who was eager to chat, and find out where we were from and what we were doing in her lovely country! She had the radio on but since it was “all Greek to us”, literally, we were unable to understand the news that was being reported. We had not listened to the news in so long since the time of our departure in Athens many days ago now, so we had no idea of what had happened.
She informed us then about the killing sprees by terrorists in Paris, France! We were, of course, shocked and rather speechless as she described this atrocity and these repulsive acts.
Such attacks by masked terrorists do not make me scared as I travel. These crimes just leave me sad at how misguided people are who follow pathetic and heartless individuals. These individuals have absolutely no conscience. They are sadistic and cowardly, willing to take advantage of those looking for belonging and purpose, and use them just to inflict pain on others. Hurt people hurting people!
As Denise headed back to the ship, I headed to the beach to watch the sunset. And, I just thought about life. I thought about how grateful I am for the life I lead, how safe I am as I travel, and as I go about my daily life back home.
As I looked out across the sea and watched families laughing when the tides chased them back to the shore, I thought of how beautiful this life is in the small precious moments, which can pass by so quickly. And, I prayed that everyone would have such beauty. To hold on to beauty even for a moment so they can hang on to hope, and have faith that THIS is truly what life is about. It’s not about the fear or violence we often get exposed to, or unfortunately, can experience.
And so, this evening as we left Cyprus, there were notes posted on each of the cabin doors. This information provided further security measures that the cruise ship will be implementing to ensure our continued safety, and the ship’s security, as we enter and leave our next stops.
This crew is very forthcoming and diligent about keeping us informed as to what is happening. There is not even a hint of concern by any of the passengers, because the crew reassures us every step of the way!
I did phone home to speak with my parents despite no threat on the horizon. I know how much they listen to the news, and though I certainly don’t want to minimize this tragedy, I know how the news often blows things out of proportion. I needed to reassure them both not to worry, because I really was safe.
All the same, it was great to hear their voices in the midst of all that had happened, and also to personally share my trip so far with them!
And on that note, thank you again for sharing my travels with me. I’ll be writing again soon! Please stay safe! Peace to you all!
Love, Jae
P.S. As a side note, I would like to give a big thank you to www.britannia.com, www.history.ca, and Wikipedia for their historical and invaluable information, which helped me to answer many questions on these areas I have visited!
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