I believe travel is one of the best sources of inspiration for writers (Hence, the travelogue posts). It gets us out of our comfort zones, shows us new places, cultures and people, and often gives us wonderful real-life stories that can spark fiction on the page, too.
This trip was no exception!
I held a sea turtle...
...and kissed a stingray!
Pucker up! |
I have a renewed love for the ocean (which played a huge role in my first novel).
Overlooking the back of our ship with the Cayman Islands in the background. |
I saw a gorgeous full moon rise over the water as the ship sailed out of port. Breathtaking and definitely worthy of being somehow captured in a scene!
My actual picture of the moon...not my best work, guys, but hey, it's tricky to take good moon pictures in the middle of a concert! |
So here's a sunset shot instead. |
And another one to get you in a tropical mood. |
The big difference for me on this trip was that, in addition to the amazing scenery and locales, I also drew so much inspiration from the people. It’s always fun (and often heartwarming) to observe, watch people interact and hear their stories. Lots of folks faced weather-related travel woes trying to get to this trip, so the stories of intrepid adventure were plentiful! Several people drove halfway across the country at the last minute, starting in the middle of the night – or merged together a crazy combination of drive-fly-drive to reach Miami.
It sounds a little cliché, but the performers too were great sources of inspiration. I’ve always been a huge fan of live music, and to listen to it on the sea, beneath the sun or stars in the middle of nowhere, was something special indeed. During one of the shows, the band invited a young family on stage whose son was battling cancer and the little guy got to body surf the crowd as his wish! It was fun and hilarious and touching all at once, and that’s what I love about these kinds of moments.
And I had an awesome break-through at the end of the trip about the magic system, characters and plot for the YA steampunk that’s been rolling around in my head!
So next time you need a break from writing - travel, wander, breathe it all in. It’s well worth it!