xaimen - the elegant island
Sunrise beacons us towards Xaimen with delicious pastels and delicate mists. Not knowing what to expect, I am delighted by the skyline of beautiful architecture covered in manicured gardens - there is an elegance to this island.
We decided to venture out on our own and take a coach to the center of town. The year of the snake is proudly on display throughout in shocks of red. Vibrant energy runs like an invisible ribbon down streets and lanes hitting all the senses at once, a wild juxtaposition to the tranquility at sea. Art is everywhere and creativity runs high. Blink, and you’ll miss something.
After a good two hours of sights, sounds, and smells we crave some sanctuary. Over lunch, Trevor tells me of Xaimen’s history, especially the Opium Wars with Britain. History parsed out in school is never a full picture. To travel, learn, hear stories, and feel the energy of each location is an education like no other. It can pull the soul like taffy, trying to understand the past and the present simultaneously.
Afternoon dips into evening and a whole other side of the city reveals itself. Lights begin to dance across tall buildings as full animated scenes play out bridging multiple structures.
The first of many outdoor soirees is tonight. I would tell you about it and share all the colorful photos but we settle in for a post-dinner nap and awake at 11:30 PM.
Next time!
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There is nothing like a soak in the spa on the pool deck in the morning sunshine. A few laps in the pool and I see Trevor swim up beside me - then swim past. Are we racing? We are!
I believe the staff on deck are taking bets on who will win.
This afternoon we set sail for Hong Kong and lunch with formal table settings on the veranda are waiting. A Latin afternoon ensues and delicious conversation is paired with food and wine. My version of the holy trinity sits upon the table, wine (or mimosa) water, and coffee. Amen!
Panoramic views of the South China Sea in full sun are the backdrop with light traffic of various ocean-going vessels. None of which are in a hurry. The voice of Andrea Bocelli washes over the afternoon completing this moment like a crowning cherry.
In the halls of this floating boutique hotel, a new friend invites us to high tea in Hong Kong. The Peninsula Hotel on Salisbury Road is the grand dame of the Far East. I am giddy with excitement as this landmark from 1928 sweeps my imagination into the glamour of the past.
Tonight, Trevor streams a live Liverpool soccer match as we sail towards Hong Kong. Thank you Elon Musk! Starlink has been with us throughout this adventure ( minus two ports in China ) and we’ve never had a faster connection - what a time to be alive!
Drifting towards sleep, I hear muffled cheers as Liverpool wins 4-1. The sea rocks me into the land of dreams as it slowly overtakes my soul. I could stay on this vast blue for eternity.
