Elly, here's a start to your checklist for vacation. Check off as many as you can.

The adventure starts as soon as you leave your house. The journey is part of it.

Smile at strangers, especially kids

Keep an open mind.. Eat something you had never considered eating before.

If a dog wags its tail, pat it on the head.

Walk the beach.

Drink at least one Belikin, one Panty Ripper, and maybe a Blue Thingy. One Barrel Rum also.

Enjoy the sea. Walk in it, swim in it, taste it and feel it.

Get up early and listen to the reef, watch the sunrise.

Get your certification, or at least do a resort dive.

Look under rocks and coconut shells, look for any movement or color. Enjoy it.

The locals do their best to make us feel welcome, return the courtesy.

Anyone else, feel free to make additions.

Been there, done that, the washing machine ate the T-shirt