Turks and Caicos had always been synonymous with the ultimate adventure in my mind. I envisioned myself immersed in the turquoise embrace of its oceans, captivated by the starlit Caribbean skies as the sun gracefully dipped below the horizon. Little did I know, the actual journey to this island paradise would be an exhilarating adventure in itself, setting the stage for the wonders that awaited.
My voyage to South Caicos was an odyssey that involved a combination of modern air travel and a touch of old-world charm. Two smooth flights delivered me to a certain point, but the final leg was an experience unlike any other – a ride on a petite propeller plane that felt like stepping into a vintage film. The ascent was a rush, pure excitement mixed with a delightful hint of trepidation. It was akin to being on a thrilling rollercoaster, gripping tightly with a wide, joyous grin plastered across my face, anticipating the drop.
Finally disembarking from this ‘flying machine’ – which, with affection, I’d describe as the world’s most charmingly compact aircraft – I arrived at what could only be classified as the smallest airport imaginable. Stepping onto the tarmac felt surreal, as I was immediately enveloped in a refreshing mist of disinfectant, a peculiar yet welcoming cloud, while a vibrant live band played an upbeat Caribbean tune.
Standing there, as the disinfectant lightly sprayed from my wrists to my fingertips in an unusual yet oddly comforting fog, I couldn’t help but reflect on the serendipitous path that had led me to this extraordinary destination.
Earlier in the year, a severe case of pandemic-induced cabin fever had taken hold. I confided in my sister, Reham, about my intense yearning for an escape, a true off-the-grid adventure. My planned trip to Costa Rica had unfortunately been canceled, but the dream of pristine white sandy beaches and sun-kissed days was still very much alive. Reham enthusiastically recounted her own incredible experience in Turks and Caicos, and just like that, everything clicked. A few emails later, I had secured an incredible opportunity – a week-long adventure job as the resident on-site photographer at the prestigious Sail Rock Resort. It was the perfect blend of professional engagement and the idyllic vacation I had been longing for. Sail Rock Resort, here I come, and the adventure had already begun long before I arrived at its stunning shores.
