A little about me…

In 2001, I became a single mom after being married almost all of my adult life. I was lost—unsure of who I was or where I fit in.

Trying to find myself, I booked my first cruise to the Bahamas for my birthday. My plus‑one canceled at the last minute, so I sucked it up and went solo.

I drove myself to the airport in tears. I was terrified to board the plane alone, even though I had flown by myself for work. I felt lost boarding the charter bus from Orlando to Port Canaveral. I was clueless trying to check in at the port—but I lived. I made it… alive, safe, and completely on my own.

At 26, having never truly been on my own, I was afraid of my own shadow. Outside of sales at work, I was too shy to talk to people I didn’t already know. When I got on the ship, I was scared to even leave my room. What would people think of me being alone on a cruise? How lonely would my first single birthday be? Little did I know—it would be the best one.

I forced myself to get dressed and go to dinner. Back then, you had assigned dinner times and tables. My dinner companions were two bartenders from Miami, a couple from St. Louis on their honeymoon, and an older couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. I explained the empty chair next to me, and they immediately eased any discomfort. We were cutting up and laughing like old friends in no time.

I wish those six people knew how much they changed my life for the better that week. They set the tone for the whole trip. I met so many new people and lost the feeling that I needed someone by my side to be happy—not just in travel, but in life.
Since then, I’ve been on five more cruises, almost thirty all‑inclusive trips, visited several countries, and seen nearly every major beach in Florida. Although warm tropical vibes are my favorite, I’m learning that I also love the city and the mountains. I started with budget all‑inclusives, and as I grew, so did my budget. Now I’m getting a taste of the nicer amenities in travel. (Don’t get me wrong—I still love to save a dollar!)

Over the years, friends and family have reaped the benefits of my travel searches, but now it’s time to extend that to anyone who needs a hand. Maybe I can spread a little of the happiness and healing I found in the freedom of travel.

“Sometimes miles are just as essential to life as breaths and heartbeats. Feed your mind, body, and soul.”—Quote by me, 2/8/2023 — Day 1 of Vacation Destinations by Cyndi
Who knew that 9/23/2001 would change my life forever? (I didn’t look so happy in this pic 😉 It was a tough day.) But I’m much happier now.
Happy travels!