Travel is all about exploring destinations, experiencing cultures, and making unforgettable memories. Unfortunately, it’s not always the good memories that stick around. As much as I try to focus on the positive parts of past excursions, some are tainted by the details that didn’t make the scrapbook.
Looking back on photos from a February 2014 trip to Belize, I’m thankful for the smiling shots of me and my travel partner (an ex) and the descriptions about where we went. We split the Valentine’s vacation between a rugged jungle cabin in San Ignacio and a swanky beach-front villa in Hopkins. But it wasn't all lovey-dovey between the lines.
Our days were filled with trekking through ruins and caves, picnicking by waterfalls, snorkeling with turtles, and lounging by the pool. Our nights featured candle-lit dinners, fresh fish, and tropical drinks. It looked like a lot of those social media-worthy images that usually don’t tell the whole story.
There’s a lingering tension that tinges these memories. It may have been that this get-away was a way to soothe the stress of personal and professional transitions. We were practically living together at the time and both unsatisfied with our jobs. There was talk of quitting and/or moving and an overall uncertainty about the future—at least in my mind.
Sometimes this uncertainty bleeds into other aspects of a relationship. Over time, details may start to blur, but there’s the real feeling that something just wasn’t right. Sometimes a trip can bring a couple closer together, or at least give them time to work out issues. Other times it can drive a deeper wedge, especially if plans get derailed or there’s enough alcohol to lower inhibitions and reveal unpleasant truths.
So what would I tell 2014 Lesley now? Knowing that the relationship didn’t make it through the year…enjoy Belize. Soak up more of that Central American sun. Breathe in the fresh jungle air. Revel in the natural wonders of Big Rock Falls. Bask in the tranquil waters of the inland Blue Hole. Sip that pink drink slowly, girl, cause this won’t last.
It wasn’t the only trip I took with a significant other. Even though those trips weren’t perfect either, I must have learned something important. The marred memories remain, but they’re overshadowed by wonder and awe of where I’ve been and gratefulness for having those opportunities to see the world.
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