Some trips are itineraries. This one was an exhale. The Dominican Republic gave me turquoise water, palm shade, unhurried meals, and days measured in swims instead of schedules.

I came home with sand still in a tote bag and a clear thought: I want more of this. Not once-every-few-years more — regularly, intentionally, saved-for and planned-for more.

Next on my list: somewhere else warm, with water I can get into and food I’ll talk about for months. Recommendations are very welcome on the Contact page.