[Sim Seju]

Finally. The trip of a lifetime has started. Away from the buzz of New York City. Away from all the drama, the family issues, troubles with friends, and, most importantly, nosy neighbors who will get pissed if I don't spill the tea on them, revealing even the most intimate details of my personal life.

"I love this." Kevin's words are the perfect picture of truth. From the amazing landscapes to the presence of one another, this is a dream come true. For once, we're here to unwind and relax for real. I've even made sure neither Himchan nor Daegwang disturb me. They can handle their shit without involving me for once.

Enough talking about them. The sights here are much more interesting. I can't wait to start exploring the island, catch a glimpse of local customs, meet new people... And, as the perfect icing on the cake, have some more intimate moments with Kevin.

"What do you want to do when we arrive there?" he asks. I'm open to suggestions and am already eager to go through the long list of activities that await us; however, I think we should rest a little bit after flying for so many hours.

"First of all, let's go to the hotel, unpack and take a look at the guides, okay?" Kevin nods as I make this offer. Therefore, the moment our shuttle arrives there, we get off quickly, check in and find our room in the matter of no more than fifteen minutes. "The check-in was pretty fast," I comment.

"Yeah, that's right. So, Room 362. Cool. I can't wait to see it." Now that he mentioned the room we're staying in, Kevin has given me another idea. We should definitely inspect it. I think it reflects the nature present in this beautiful island, and the sight will also give us a glimpse of what we will watch more closely from now on.

When Kevin opens the door, the two of us are catapulted in a harmony of greens and light blues. My attention quickly switches to the private balcony, separated from the room by a floor to ceiling windowframe. Without even opening it, I enjoy a breathtaking ocean view, where turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and lush, tropical greenery dominate the scene, combined with the natural light that fills the room and takes me to a new level of heaven.

I stare at the magnificent landscape for nearly thirty minutes before Kevin hands me a dépliant. He invites me to read it. 'Room 362 is an oasis of relaxation with soft, neutral tones and high end furnishings that blend seamlessly with the island's natural beauty.' This description couldn't be more fitting. The room and the vivid scenery surrounding it form what looks like a painting turning alive.

I continue reading. 'The room is equipped with all the modern amenities you need. These include a 55-inch flat screen TV, high speed Wi-Fi and a mini bar stocked with exquisite local delicacies. You'll also find a sleek, fully equipped kitchenette, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee as the sun rises over the sea.' I take a look at all the items described in the dépliant and already imagine a pleasant awakening with a delightful panorama and delicious food. I pinch myself, trying not to delude myself into thinking this is a dream.

'The crown of the jewel in this room is its king size bed. Dressed in crisp and elegant linens, it invites to sink into comfort after spending an eventful day exploring what the island has to offer. Our bed, however, isn't the only place to unwind. You'll be able to enjoy a plush seating area with cozy lounge chairs as well, where you can relax in the evening with soft lights that create a warm and inviting ambiance.'

I take a seat on one of the lounge chairs and invite Kevin to join me. He follows suit, taking place on the one opposite me. We stare at each other, then turn our focus outdoors. I close my eyes and take deep breaths. The atmosphere surrounding us is real; yet, there's this tingling sense of magic that makes everything look like a vivid fantasy.

I reopen my eyes and pay closer attention to the details, most notably the artworks on the walls and the ones placed on the drawers, perfectly matching the island's vibe. I comment, "This room exceeds my expectations. Not only it's large, airy, bright. It's like a little corner of the island itself." I point at the décor and turn to Kevin. "Now, look at the masks hung above the bed, close to the ceiling."

"You're right, Seju. It's like we've already stepped in the heart of the island. And that painting..." He notices a painting not far from the TV, matching the tropical flair of the furniture. "Everything here has to be manifactured locally. This is not your typical resort, for sure."

"Now that you wonder, I think we should ask the hotel stuff where the furniture comes from, and the artworks, too." I touch the curtains. "Oh, they're so soft. I like them. I think I'll go and take a look at the balcony outdoors."

What awaits me there is an example of how gorgeous the nature of this island is, starting from the floral arrangements. "They take care of every single detail here, all while honoring the island. Wow. This is heaven."

I go back inside because I hear Kevin calling me. "Seju, look!" Awaiting me on the desk next to the bed, there's a platter with fresh fruit, along with an envelope. I open it and find a simple note saying, 'Welcome to Paradise — The Islander Hotel & Resort staff.' They couldn't have put it better.

Next, I take a closer look at the basket that's on the bed. That is, after closely inspecting the linens, which are exactly as described in the dépliant. There are two plush robes, bath products of excellent quality, and a bottle of chilled champagne. This welcoming is simply perfect.

"We've got to find two glasses," I say, "and raise a toast at this incredible holiday." A toast is a great idea, after all. There's nothing better to mark the beginning of a relaxing vacation than a little celebration. But, first, I've got to finish reading the dépliant. There has to be something more.

'The design of the room ensures ultimate tranquillity and peace through soundproof walls and soft ambient music that's played through hidden speakers in the entirety of the structure, creating a perfect escape.' Nice to know. The music creates an idilliac atmosphere, but doesn't interfere with our privacy. Nothing will be able to disturb us, which makes everything even more enjoyable.

'Enjoy unparalleled privacy in a room that's set against the backdrop of the island's secluded beaches that provide a peaceful retreat from the outside world.' Before I can leave the paper on the desk, Kevin calls me in the bathroom. That's the only room we haven't explored yet.

I reach him inside. It's an open concept space like the rest of the room. "Take a look at the shower, Seju." I do as Kevin says. It's a rain shower with accents in what seems to be tropical stone. It looks to be ideal to refresh after a whole day in the sun. I think I'll test it later—I really need it.

But, for now, all I do is raising a toast with Kevin, enjoying the fresh local fruit and high quality champagne. With worries out of the door, I can sense freedom and brightness filling the next few days.