In St. Maarten, I was hoping for a simple afternoon. I had recently seen a picture of a friend from another ship at Holland House, a hotel with beach access and a nice restaurant, and decided that would be the prefect destination!

Ocean Lounge

I had told a few people my plan, and ended up having 5 people follow me there. I was happy to have company. Upon our arrival, we grabbed a table in the shade at the Ocean Lounge. I ordered a cocktail with pear vodka, elderflower liquor, raspberries, and mint as I perused the menu. A breadbasket and olive oil and vinegar soon arrived as well.

View from the table

I ordered an open-faced ahi tuna sandwich. I was shocked by the size when it arrived, but somehow managed to eat the entire thing! Sushi grade fish is a rare and wonderful thing when I’m on board, so I took full advantage of the fresh fish.

Tuna sandwich

During the meal, we all went into our own worlds. We tend to have a peaceful coexistence when we go out in places with good internet rather than normal conversations. Everyone was checking in with friends and family back home.

Since the connection was good, I stayed at Holland House, moving inside to the bar, while my friends either went shopping or to the beach. I ordered a ginger cocktail and water and enjoyed a long chat with my beau on Viber. He asked questions about my family, reminding me that I’ve slacked on calls to my sisters lately, and filled me in on his time at home. His vacation is off to a good start, and he’s cherishing the time he’s spent with his parents.

View from the bar

Before I started working on ships, I sort of took my parents for granted. If I needed anything, I could always call them. Even visiting them wasn’t that big of a hassle. My first contract was the longest I’d ever gone without seeing my mother. Thus, family becomes a focus and a conversation topic for many shipboard employees.

Happy girl

After saying a reluctant goodbye, I walked back to the ship. My heart felt just as full as my belly! It had been a simple but beautiful day in St. Maarten.