Water has an almost magnetic pull on many of us, drawing us into its depths for solace and exhilaration alike. For me, there has always been a deep, unshakeable connection to water; its transformative properties can shift moods from anxious to calm in just a few strokes. Swimming isn’t just a sport; it’s a ritual of escape, allowing me to immerse myself in a world stripped of distractions. The sensation of weightlessness beneath the surface transports me to an alien realm where the cacophony of daily life dissipates, and tranquility flows freely. This relationship with water has become a bedrock of my daily routine for nearly two decades, offering comfort and rejuvenation.
Hailing from the urban sprawl of New York City, I have cultivated a penchant for the natural beauty of water that surrounds me. The mere sight of a river glistening under the sun can lead to a moment of reflection and peace. Some of my fondest memories are anchored in these water-laden experiences: where I’ve lost track of time by serene lakesides, while snorkeling with graceful rays, and venturing along the dramatic cliffs of the Mediterranean. The attraction to water is universal, a common thread that weaves together the fabric of many people’s travel itineraries, as vacations often cater to our innate desire to be near bodies of water.
A New Perspective on Cruising
However, only recently have I begun to explore the vast world of cruising — a form of travel that, at first glance, seems far removed from my usual aquatic experiences. My first month at Travel Weekly opened up an entirely new avenue of water exploration, culminating in an exhilarating experience aboard the MSC World America during its inaugural festivities. Gazing over the majestic ocean from my balcony, I was captivated by a kaleidoscope of blues and greens, a stark contrast to the familiar sandy shores. The sheer size of the ship, accommodating over 6,700 passengers, added an urban vibe to the open sea – a buzzing city adrift on waves, a blend of energy and serenity.
Cruising, I learned, incorporates not just travel but also a wealth of on-board adventures designed to delight. From exploring various dining options to indulging in thrilling water slides reminiscent of childhood amusement parks, I discovered an exhilarating side of ocean life that lingers beyond just swimming. The towering water slide, with its heart-racing vertical drop, sparked a nostalgia that reminded me how vital fun is for the soul. Through cruising, I’ve unearthed a new means of experiencing water that marries both excitement and relaxation, reminding me that the joy of water can come in countless forms.
A New Chapter as a Travel Editor
Taking on the role of water-loving cruise editor at Travel Weekly is a thrilling development in my career. After years planted in political reporting and local news, the evolution into travel journalism represents more than just a job change; it’s an embrace of adventure. It feels as though I’ve been handed a passport to explore the breathtaking vistas and dynamic experiences that water travel offers, all while sharing these stories with others.
With each passing day, I toggle between visiting neighborhood pools and sprawling cruise ship paradises, each offering their own unique form of escape. The chaotic nature of my previous reporting days is now softened as I navigate the tranquil journey through travel journalism. This newfound freedom encourages me to approach each experience with curiosity and wonder, revealing layers of excitement that I uniquely relate to through the lens of water.
So, whether you’re seeking solace in your neighborhood pool or exploring the expansive decks of a cruise ship, the power of water remains unyielding — a healer, an adrenaline booster, a catalyst for connection. My story, intertwined with aquatic adventures, is increasingly not just about exploring new horizons, but about recognizing the way water reshapes our experiences and emotions. It’s a joyous embrace of both calm and thrill, reminding us to fully safeguard the memories we create along the way.