Have
you ever lived through miserable weather and long tiring days of work and
longed to escape to a tropical paradise? I’ll put my hand up to that. Even now,
when the weather in Australia is of the heatwave variety, the idea of a
tropical beach appeals. Maybe it’s the gorgeous, glittering sea, the balmy
breezes or the shade of lush vegetation. Sigh.
That longing inspired the setting of my current book (The Greek’s Forbidden Innocent), so I happily indulged myself recalling time spent in the tropics. It made diving into my story each day so much easier!
If
you’re dreaming of a tropical escape here are a few tips.
First
up, check your dates. Even Paradise can get thrashed by rough weather
sometimes. This first photo is of Trinity Beach in far north Queensland (the
north east part of Australia). It formed part of my inspiration for Mina and
Alexei’s story. Out to sea is the Great Barrier Reef. So if you were planning a
trip there you’d want to be able to explore the Reef, right? And swim in the
sea? It’s best not to assume that because it’s winter in the northern
hemisphere, it’s automatically the best time to visit. Summer in this area can
be hot and incredibly humid. It’s storm season too, so if a cyclone is going to
roll in from the Pacific, this is the most likely time of year. Then too,
summer is stinger season in north Queensland – there are some very unpleasant
jellyfish that ride the currents at that time of year, which means for a couple
of months it’s better to swim in a pool than at the beach, though the reef is
usually okay. Wherever you’re going, do your homework in advance.
So,
you’ve checked your ideal tropical destination, saved your holiday money and
checked when to go. What else?
Take
your cue from the locals. They don’t
usually sunbake all day. Pack a hat and plenty of sunscreen and, if you’re not
used to the sun, take it in small doses. Turning lobster red and sore on the
first day of sun exposure can take the shine out of the most wonderful holiday.
Insect repellent is handy too.
Keep
up your fluids! There may be a sunken bar in your resort pool – lots of fun and
such a luxury. But remember to top up with water as well.
Oh,
and those pretty coconut palms? They do drop coconuts from time to time. Maybe
find some other shade to relax in.
But
with those couple of precautions, your trip should be marvellous, with the
beach on your doorstep and nothing to do but unwind. Don’t forget to take some
reading matter so you can loll about by the water, enjoying the decadence of
totally relaxing in idyllic surroundings and not working! Could anything be
nicer?
If
you’ve got the time and energy, don’t miss the chance to explore more than the
beach. Check out the local towns, maybe meet some locals, go on a tour of the
rainforest or learn about the local wildlife. The tropics are so richly diverse
and fascinating. Plus of course there will probably be jet skis, canoes, paddle
boards and all sorts of fun activities to enjoy.
If
you can, try to see at least one sunrise or sunset. They can be absolutely
spectacular!
If
you have suggestions on a tropical paradise to visit, please let me know. I may
just have to do some research for another book! Is there an idyllic location
you’d like to escape to right now?
About Annie
Australian Annie West loves writing passionate, intense romances and not just because it gives her a chance to ignore housework! She is a USA Today Bestselling author, published in 25 languages. Annie writes contemporary stories about charismatic heroes and strong heroines. She loves being in contact with readers as far apart as Brisbane, Bremen and Bermuda. When not writing and avoiding housework she can be found walking, enjoying good food and good company, travelling and reading.
Annie has a new book out right now!
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THE GREEK’S FORBIDDEN INNOCENT
The Greek’s
virgin bride…
…is hiding her royal identity!
While helping her friend escape an arranged
marriage, dutiful Princess Mina finds herself captive
on enigmatic Alexei Katsaros’s luxurious private island! Mina must convince
Alexei that she’s his future bride, but she doesn’t expect their scorching
chemistry to be so deliciously overwhelming… And after a night in the Greek’s
bed, suddenly there’s more at stake than just Mina’s hidden identity—her heart
is at Alexei’s mercy, too!
Escape to an island paradise with the
billionaire and his royal bride!
Buy on:
Amazon Kindle Amazon Paperback
Last year I co-opted, arm-twisted and generally bribed