Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always dreamed of having my quinceañera overseas. I would always look at my older cousin’s quinceañera album and tell everyone that I wanted a party just like hers. I am forever grateful that I was able to have one. The week of July 31st felt so far away, but it came by so fast. I spent the entirety of summer preparing special goody bags for every guest and shopped for cute outfits to wear for the cruise parties. The day finally arrived and with my suitcase in one hand and my big, sparkly dress in the other, I was ready to board my cruise ship.
When I boarded the ship, I was in awe of all of the shiny, colorful lights and the beautiful crystal staircase that was decorated along the inside of this massive boat. That’s when I realized that the day I’ve been waiting for all summer was finally here. I was able to meet the other quinceañeras that would be celebrating the special day with me. After exploring the ship and hanging out with my friends, it was time to get some rest for my big day. I woke up the next morning, ate breakfast, and started doing my hair. With my mom and aunt doing my hair while I put the finishing touches on my makeup, I felt like a princess already. With only 30 minutes left to spare, I put on my sparkly, silver jewelry and slipped on my blue, bejeweled dress. At this moment, it started to sink in that this was the day that little girl inside me dreamed about. I took the elevator to the uptown lounge, where the quince was being held, and I danced the night away with my friends and family. I swayed left and right with my big dress and magical crown while holding on to each family who performed a special dance with me. It was an unforgettable night with fun and loving memories. Once the party was over, we went to the restaurant with the rest of the quinceañeras and their families. The traveling company surprised us by singing happy birthday while serving us a beautiful cake. One memory I will genuinely never forget is when I left the restaurant and a little girl, about 4 years old, called me a pretty princess. Because on that night, that is exactly how I felt.
The ship was scheduled to arrive in Jamaica the day after. We took an excursion to go to the Blue Hole and the Dunn’s River Falls. We climbed beautiful waterfalls, swam in crystal-clear, ice-cold water, and jumped off of the rushing waterfalls. This day was personally my favorite! The next day, we arrived at Grand Cayman with no excursion planned. My family and I decided to walk along the streets and go to the aesthetic beach shops where we purchased souvenirs for our friends and family who were back home. Lastly, we went to Cozumel, Mexico, and I got the chance to swim with dolphins. I got to touch them and do a couple tricks as well. They were so friendly and the best companions to take a swim with.
This trip is one I’ll never forget. Not only did my dream come true, but I got the opportunity to make unforgettable memories with the people I love most. This was my quince overseas!
