When I was growing up, our family vacations looked like this:
Drive for hours, visit friends in other cities or countries, stay at holiday homes or at someone’s house.
We never stayed in a hotel because
a) missionary families can’t afford that and
b) it felt somehow wrong to be in a fancy clean place and have other people serve you when there’s poverty and a completely different culture out there to explore.
I loved our kind of vacations.
We saw, experienced and tasted things so far off from any hotel complex or all inclusive trip. Whenever I travel today, it’s as close to the local culture as possible.
So it’s quite understandable that I was hesitant at first, when a friend called me in April and asked if I wanted to escape into the sun with her. One week in Egypt, all-inclusive style.
But when I looked at the non-changing, depressing grey sky outside, I agreed to come.
When we arrived at the hotel at 3 a.m., I couldn’t believe we would stay here.
Everything seemed like a magical wonderland – a beautiful compound with little bungalows and a pool, directly next to the Red Sea.
The first day was weird and I caught myself asking, “is this included in the price?” whenever we were offered large towels, more food or a drink.
It felt like I don’t deserve to be spoiled like that.
But I do. You do.
We all deserve to treated nicely and be pampered once in a while.
When life keeps us busy and drains all energy from us – we all deserve some space for rest and service and restoration. Even more so, we need the permission to let go and accept the gifts all around us.
They might be a week in some beautiful place.
They might be a small act of service that someone does for us.
They might be a day off when we allow ourselves to fully rest.
They might be a word of encouragement, a good night’s sleep, a healthy meal with friends.
The One who made us, the One who knows all and sees all, has offered us life in abundance – and it’s all-inclusive.
Full Disclosure: The week was balm to my soul.
Sleeping without an alarm clock.
Delicious food.
Basking in the sun.
Reading without a time limit.
Overcoming my fear of water (that’s a whole different story to share!).
Spending the day without an agenda.
What was the best vacation you’ve had so far?
What will your next vacation look like?
Writing for Five Minute Friday today.
thisiskatha.com 
I love that you gave yourself permission to enjoy this! I am in need of some time away without responsibilities (so many responsibilities). This has encouraged me to explore this a little more closely now!
Oh, I’m glad! Hope you find some well deserved rest soon!
Beautiful! And you’re right…we all deserve to be pampered at one point or another. I’m so glad this trip was balm for your soul. I’m in the 24 spot this week; your neighbor.
Yes, exactly! Thank you, Tara!