Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live on a warm, tropical island? Have you pictured yourself sunning yourself all day long under a bright sun, sipping a Mai Tai, taking an occasional dip in crystal-clear waters while letting all your cares waft away on the refreshing sea breezes?
Ah. That sounds like the life. If only life would imitate art.
In reality, the sun is blazing hot, threatening to melt you away. You seldom have time to take a dip in the waters (which may or may not be warm and welcoming) as you are forced to invest your time in battling insect invasions and the ravages of the salty sea air on everything you possess. Plus, the trials and tribulations of daily life don’t go away just because you live in Paradise. Instead they seem to multiply.
Tropics Today attempts to lift the veil of perfect beaches, perfect weather and a perfect life portrayed in shows and movies and tell it like it is. The goal is to give a glimpse into the vicissitudes of daily life here.
I moved here nearly seven years ago and have picked up so many new skills. I can expertly pick the right glass or mixing bowl to catch and release whatever tarantula has stumbled into my house. I can wield a router and biscuit joiner (which I, in my sheltered prior professional life, had never heard of) to fashion shelves, thresholds and whatever else I need. I have learned the virtues of cabbage, how to make sourdough bread and how long clothes take to dry depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Going back to the basics has given me a new lease on life. I get up every morning, stare over the lush, green trees into the distant blue sea and feel a warm glow radiate from deep within – the glow of contentment. Even with the blistering heat, deluge of scorpions and spiders, paucity of available goods and food choices, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am home.
Welcome to Paradise!