After a particularly trying winter of 2015, which piled stress on top of sadness on top of grief, with weeks of minus-35-degree Celsius weather thrown in for good measure, I needed a break. I’m not normally one for restful vacations in warm places. I get bored easily on beaches and feel restless from lack of stimulation, always looking around for something I “should” be doing instead. I really don’t have a single Zen bone in my body–I am an instructor’s worst nightmare in a yoga class. (I’m the one mumbling in the back row wondering when we’re going to get around to the cardio part.)
But this was an exceptional year and called for an exceptional vacation. So, I took five much-needed days to myself and flew off for a recuperative stay at Secrets St. James, Montego Bay. On this trip I sought peace, solitude and beauty. This resort did not disappoint.

Below is a photo essay of my time there. If you are at a time in your life where you need to step away from the heavy emotions and obligations for a little while, this is the place to come.



