"Are you sure you've got everything?" Oscar asks, walking down the dock.

          "Yup—you don't have to worry about me," I reply, even though I'm slightly tentative.

          He laughs. "Oh, really? Remember our road trip down to Arizona? We had to go all the way back to Nevada just because you forgot the iPad."

          "Dude, come on. I was younger back then. And besides, it only took us like half an extra day."

          "Yeah. Tell that to mom and dad," he says, the boards of the dock creaking underneath our feet. "They were pissed off when we had to turn around on the freeway!"

          "Whatever." I give him a sassy brother look, gripping the bag of tents that rest along my shoulder. "Anyway, you gonna help me out here? This shit is heavier than it looks."

          "Fine. Only because it was you who came up with this awesome idea."

          "It was our idea—the whole group."

          "True, but I still think we should be thanking you. I mean, this is gonna be the highlight of the entire trip, no question."

          This morning, when we attempted to check in to our new hotel, we were informed that our rooms were not available until tomorrow. I couldn't believe it...Shawn and I had booked everything so carefully in advance. The receptionist even showed us our misdated reservation on the computer screen, only confirming, that technically, we don't have a place to stay tonight. Obviously, at first, this raised some concern amongst the group. But as we started asking questions around town, our worries were deflated with some rather fascinating news.

          Remember Brad and Cindy? Those crazy, drunk hippies who told us about the island last night? Well, turns out those motherfucker were telling the truth! Because we ran into some local fishermen later this morning, who said they actually knew about the secret island. To be honest, we were all shocked. One of the fishermen, Pierre, who's skinny and extremely short, even offered to take us there in his small, blue and red junk boat. Shawn and I are discreetly planning on giving him a solid payday if things really go throgh.

          So guess what? We're gonna be edgy and spend the night at RockFord Island! How freakin' cool is that? Obviously, there were some fears and questions going into the group. But in the end, we all agreed that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and that we had to live this longing vacation up to the fullest, since it had been a lifelong dream of ours. I'm more excited than ever before.

          Oscar and I then finally reach the end of the dock, where Christina and Shawn are already in the boat, loading our stuff up. Pierre is crouched down on one knee, starting to untie the many ropes that hold the boat to the dock. He's wearing a rice hat, a pair of black shorts, and a grey T-shirt. Pierre may not speak the best English, but he is a very happy, positive person. 

          He turns around to greet my brother and I with a big Vietnamese smile, speaking in his broken accent. "Ah, there you is! Ready to visit most beautiful island you ever see?"

          "Yes, I am!" I remark excitedly. "We are all very grateful for this. Thank you so much."

          "Yeah, we really appreciate it, man," Shawn replies, tucking the cooler into a shaded corner. "If it wasn't for you, we'd probably be sleeping on the sidewalk tonight. At least we have some fun this way, you know?"

          Pierre smiles again. "Really, it's not a problem! I happy to take you there. Not many people know of the island, so you a lucky one!"

          "Yes, we sure are lucky," Christina agrees while applying suntan lotion to her neck. "Do you usually take tourists around in your boat?"

          "No—only the special ones," Pierre replies with a funny wink, making us all crack up.

          Oscar drops the bag of tents into the side of the boat. 

          "So, how long have you lived in Hanoi?" he asks curiously.

          "All my life—since I was young boy. I grow up with my father and old brother. We very close."

          "Did they teach you how to fish?" Shawn asks.

          "Oh, yes, yes. I been fishing since I was little boy." Pierre uses his hand to mimic a small child. "Only five years old!"

          "Wow, so you must be a pro then, hey?" Christina jokes.

          "Yes—lots of practice." He chuckles as he finishes with the ropes, then stands up. "So, you ready to go?"

          We all look around at each other, pretty much nodding our heads in unison.

          "Yeah, I'd say so." I'm the first to speak up, eager to set my eyes on this mysterious RockFord Island.

          "Well, get in!" Pierre laughs, signalling me and Oscar to enter the boat.

          I carefully step in. I do a quick double-check on the supplies we are bringing. The cooler is over in the corner, which is carrying our food, water, and of course—some alcoholic beverages. By Shawn's feet, lay the bundle of towels, blankets, and pillows. And, like Oscar assisted me with, nudged up beside the boat, is the bag of tents, which was kindly lent to us by Pierre and his family. I'm also bringing a small med-kit, considering this is an edgy move of us, but we can't let fear out rule such an opportunity.

          After pushing the boat away from the dock and letting it float into the sea, Pierre climbs inside the cabin and takes hold of the steering wheel.

          A few moments later, the small yet powerful propeller at the back starts chopping through the water, creating foamy, white ripples that remind me of the bubbles in a hot tub.

          "Here. We. Go!" Pierre calls out as we move forward. "Make sure you take lots of picture! This here called Ha Long Bay—very big and famous!"

          Oscar already reaches into the cooler, pulls out a beer, then glances back to Pierre. "Hey, Captain! Mind if I crack a cold one?"

          I hesitate—the last thing I want is to cause any trouble.

          "Maybe you should just wait till we get there," I say, nibbling on my fingernails.

          But Pierre makes it clear that he has no problem with him drinking at sea.

          "No, no, it's fine, the boy can drink!" he informs us with yet another deep laugh, wiggling his index finger side to side as if someone being naughty. "You Americans are crazy, you know that?"

          "Yes, sir!" Oscar agrees, raising the bottle for a toast.

          I shake my head with a smile, knowing I have the craziest group of friends and lovers.

          With the calm ocean breeze blowing through my hair, I start to really take in the wonders of Ha Long Bay. The entire cove is filled with other boats and tourists. They all bring a great vibe; it's such a charming feeling to be here.

          We, also, are already surrounded by dozens of uninhabited islands, some of them with rock faces that are so tall, I have to stretch my neck back just to see the top! I know that probably sounds pretty weird—a tall island. What exactly is a tall island? And more importantly, what creates it?

          Well, after spending countless hours on the internet back home, Googling interesting facts about Vietnam, I may have some answers.

          From what I read, over periods of millions and millions of years, it is the sea levels rising and falling that leave these islands in their unique shape. It just fascinates me knowing that nearly this entire bay, if not the whole thing, was underwater at one point. It's also the ocean waves, that during storms, crash and slam into the base of the islands, very gradually eroding their shapes. This slowly forms arches in the islands, and in some cases, even creates alluring caves that intrigue more tourists and local residents.

          In total, I believe there are approximately 1600 islands in Ha Long Bay. Even though the majority of them are unpopulated, that sure is a lot of islands to choose from! So this RockFord one better be damn worth it! But why though? This one particular island.

          Though from what we've been told, I think it's going to be just amazing.

          .   .   .   .   .

          We've probably been at sea now for a good two hours, maybe more. The islands around us have become more and more scarce over time, to the point there is only one more longing in the far distance.I glance around in every direction, completing a 360-degree turn, seeing almost nothing but water The island doesn't look any different than the ones we have already passed, which leaves me curious to know more.

          "There it is—Rock Island!" Pierre yells emphatically. It amazes me how he's able to distinguish this one particular island from all the others. He must really know these oceans.

          "Hell yeah," Oscar says, putting down the deck of cards. He and Shawn have been playing blackjack to pass the time.

          "Awesome!" Christina cheers, clapping her hands with excitement. "I can't wait to get up close and see what it looks like."

          "Same," Shawn agrees, standing up to get a better view. "I wanna go explore and find this so-called watering hole."

          I nod my head. "I agree. I say we quickly set up camp and go check it out while the sun's still up." 

          Everyone seems to enjoy that plan, including Pierre, even though he sadly won't be staying with us.

          "Yes, yes. Make sure you go see this! Watering hole in once in lifetime opportunity!"

          "You heard the man—once in a lifetime," Oscar repeats, confirming to the group that we'll be heading there.

          "Is it hard to find?" Christina asks Pierre, using her hand to block the sun.

          "No, no, not really." He makes a squinty face. "Where I gonna drop you off, it only five-minute hike from beach. The island is much smaller than you imagine it. Still beautiful!"

          Although, the closer we get to the island, I must admit, the waters are gradually becoming a little rough, and even slightly unpleasant. The wind is strong here, letting its presence be known by whistling in my ears...as if it's trying to tell me something I should know.

          "Ah, this here called the reef," Pierre informs us with a serious tone in his voice. "Very dangerous. That why you need strong boat like this to reach island."

          Before we know it, there are strong waves pushing us into the shore. I can definitely feel their power, and would never wish to test my swimming skills in a place like this. There is also an obvious riptide trying to pull us back into the sea. Pierre has to use some extra speed to get us through the mighty current. It's a little spooky, but thankfully, I have Shawn here to comfort me.

          "It's okay, babe," he says with a reassuring voice. "We'll be fine. Pierre knows what he's doing."

          "Thanks," I reply, feeling the boat rock side to side, up and down.

          "Just a bit farther and we'll be there. Trust me, Jane, it's gonna be worth it."

          And oh, is he ever telling the truth. Because once we eventually push past the remainder of chop, we are now peacefully cruising in the bluest fucking water I have ever seen in my entire thirty-two years of life. No movie, no magazine cover—not even a brilliantly photoshopped image, would be able to portray the crystal-clear, pale-green liquid I am starting at. We're not even near the beach yet, and I can already see the bottom of the sandy ocean like I'm looking through a brand-new glass window.

          "Holy shit," Oscar mumbles, taking off his sunglasses.

          Everyone goes silent, embracing the life-changing scenery, with the sound of the reef still crashing in the background.

          Pierre laughs loudly. "So, what you thinking!"

          "It—it's just...beautiful," I answer, somehow managing to choke out the words. 

          "I can second that," Christina agrees.

          Once the boat nudges against the shoreline, I can't help but hop out like a little kid excited on Christmas morning. I kick off my flip-flops and instantly feel the smoothest, warmest sand graze over my feet and in between my toes, tickling me. The little sensations are so calming and satisfying. I glance left and right down the beach, observing just how golden and perfect every single minuscule grain of sand is. I've been to a lot of beaches in my time, but none of them even came close to comparing with this one. It almost doesn't even look real—that's how nice it is!

          On top of that, the beach is surrounded by tall, luscious palm trees that gently sway back and forth, welcoming us with their elegant beauty. The way their precious green leaves calmly dance in the breeze reminds me of a conductor leading an orchestra, his baton moving in sync to the rhythm of the wonderful music. And behind the palm trees, resting in the dazzling jungle that we'll soon be exploring, I can hear some exotic birds chirping. They, too, bring a blanket of comfort I want to snuggle up in for the rest of my existence.

          "Oh...my...God," I whisper to myself, spreading my arms out like an eagle soaring above the trees. With my eyes closed, I tilt my head up to the sky and slowly spin around in circles, the warm sun shining down on me. It's like I'm in a trance; everything around me begins to slowly fade away. It's such an incredible feeling. I don't even know how to possibly describe it. All I know is that this is heaven—absolute heaven.

          .   .   .   .   .

          Gradually, after slowly unloading the boat, taking our time and enjoying ourselves with more enticing conversations, it's now time for us to say goodbye to Pierre until tomorrow morning. He has a family to get home to. He needs to be there to assist his wife Bian with dinner. Then, tend to his two children, Chi and Hui, so they can get ready for school tomorrow. 

          But before he can go, I want to make sure he gets his fair share of the deal. He's done so much for us today, it's the least we can do to help out.

          "Hey, Pierre! We got something for you." Shawn jogs over with something in hand—a gift from all of us. "We want you to take this—here."

          Pierre's eyes widen like saucers when he sees 150 American dollars being offered to him.

          "Oh, no-no-no, this here not necessary," he denies, kind of like I suspected he would because he's so humble.

          "We insist," Christina responds. "We want you to have it."

          "Yeah! We're not gonna let you leave this island unless you take it." Oscar places his hands on his hips, realizing his joke fell flat. "Okay...maybe we will. But still, it belongs to you now!"

          Pierre looks at the money. "Are you sure?"

          "Are you kidding?" I say with a firm, sarcastic tone. "We should be paying you double for all you've done today!"

          "Triple!" Oscar counters, nodding his head in approval.

          It's obvious that Pierre and his family are not the richest people in the world. That's why we want to lend a helping hand, even if it's just a small portion. And with that, he finally gives in.

          "Yes...yes I take the money then." Pierre almost looks emotional while receiving it. He gives Shawn a hug. It's such a sweet moment. Pierre is so short compared to Shawn; he barely even reaches his shoulders.

          "Oh, and one last thing." I announce, walking over with my phone out. "Can you please take a picture of us?"

          "Of course." He accepts the mobile device, still a little teary of joy. "Where you want it—here on beach?"

          Christina gives a thumbs up. "Yeah, right here. That would be perfect, thanks."

          The four of us huddle around one another as Pierre stands in front of us. Christina and I are in the middle of the shot, while the boys are on the outside each. We all link arms across our shoulders, posing for the picture, along with the indescribably beautiful setting in the background.

          Pierre holds the phone horizontally. "Okay, say cheese!"

          We flash our best smiles for the camera, as this single shot will remain in the back of our minds for the rest of eternity. It's going to tell so many stories. I'll show it to my kids one day, and they'll show it to their kids...and their kids after. So many memories, all wrapped up inside something as small as thousands of little pixels combined together to create a simple, basic photograph.

          "Done!" Pierre calls out happily.

          "Great. Thanks again, man." Oscar retrieves my phone for me. I tuck it back into my pocket. I decide that I'll look at the picture later, almost as if I'm savouring it like a tasty dessert.

          "Well, time for me to go!" Pierre giggles, pointing in the direction of his boat. "Do you need anything else of me? Something you wish to ask of me?"

          Shawn crosses his arms. "Absolutely not. You've done more than enough for us, Pierre. Once again, thank you so much."

          "Yes, thank you. For everything," I tell him one last time, meaning it from the bottom of my heart.

          We all say goodbye, shaking hands and sharing hugs. Oscar even takes a funny Snapchat selfie with Pierre on his own phone! That popular filter with the dog ears, nose, and tongue—or whatever the hell it is.

          Though it's now time for the fisherman to sail back across the great sea, and return to his home in Hanoi.

          "I be back first thing in morning!" Pierre steps into the boat, placing his well-deserved money in the cabinet. "Bright and early! No forget!"

          "Aye aye, captain!" Christina shouts, cupping her hands together around her mouth like a megaphone.

          We watch as Pierre slowly backs the boat away from the shoreline, gradually turning it around to face the sunny, beaming horizon.

          "Remember, no sleep in!" he yells. Once again, he wiggles his index finger side to side as a funny joke, making us all laugh for the hundredth time.

          And just like that, the man is off to conquer whatever journey lay next in his life.

          "Wow, what a guy, hey?" Shawn comments, yet again.

          "Yup. Ya don't meet many fellas like that nowadays," Oscar agrees, turning around to face the pile of supplies we've brought. "So, let's get these tents set up so we can go explore this cool-ass watering hole. What do you say?"

          "I'm so down." Christina bends over and starts to arrange the two tents. "Oscar and I will set up this one. Shawn and Jane, you take the bigger one?"

          "Sure. Although, with Oscar being so tall, do you think it will affect his sleep?"

          He shakes his head. "Nah, I'll be fine. I measured them both out before we left. It may be a little tight, but I'll manage either way."

          "Yeah—exactly," Shawn says, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "And besides, I don't think Christina will mind being up close with Oscar for the night, now would you?"

          Christina's jaw drops. "Excuse me? That's not cool, Shawn!"

          We all can't help but laugh—a little sheepishly of course—especially Christina.

          "I'm just joking." Shawn gives her a nudge on the shoulder.

          She rolls her eyes, a tiny smile spread across her face.

          "Well, while you guys tease each other and figure this out, I'm gonna go get my shoes," I say, remembering that I left my flip-flops down by the shoreline when I first hopped out the boat. "I'll be right back."

          I make my way back down to the unmatchable blue water, once again, feeling the picture-perfect, beige sand caressing my heels. I still can't get over how amazing this place is. I know I probably sound like a broken record player by now, repeating myself over and over, but this truly is something else. Ugh...why can't I just stay here forever.

          When I reach my flip-flops, I casually slide my feet into them, ready to make my way back over to the group.

          Yet absolutely out of nowhere, I begin to feel this strange sensation in the pit of my stomach. At first, it's just a gentle pinch, and doesn't really even phase me. But as time progresses, the feeling slowly becomes more intense, to the point it's actually starting to create some pretty unpleasant discomfort for me. It's almost like I'm having...anxiety? Though it's more of a sharp, stabbing kind of pain, and now beginning to slightly concern me.

          I place my hand over my chest and take slow, deep breaths, the other members of the group completely oblivious to what's happening with me. Things become quite disturbing. I start to feel, as if something is...inside me...like a small snake perhaps. I can quite literally feel its cold, slimy body slithering along the inner walls of my stomach. My eyes widen, and my body tenses up like it's been left out in the cold without a jacket. 

          Though just as abruptly as the feeling came, it disappears completely, and I return back to my somewhat normal state.

          What the fuck? I ask myself. Why did that just happen to me? I can't help but question my experience, knowing that not even ten seconds ago, I was on cloud nine, having the ultimate time of my life. And now I'm standing here, randomly wondering if there is some kind of serpent-like creature lurking inside my body. I look over at the group, seeing their smiles and laughter. 

          Though for the very first time, I actually realize to myself, that no matter how spectacular this island may be—no matter how edgy and passionate—we are in the middle of completely nowhere.

          In fact, I turn my gaze back to the horizon, seeing Pierre sail away in the distance, pushing past the reef. Of course, I want to be here on this island—it's all I've ever dreamt of. But if I'm brutally honest, there's now also a small part of me that wants to call out for him. To come back and pick us up, returning to the mainland.

          Though I watch as the boat slowly gets farther away from the island. Farther...and farther, until there's nothing left but a small dot hovering above the water.

          I exhale another deep breath. Should I tell the group about what I felt? Or am I just overreacting here? I don't know, I think we should be fine. I mean, that was weird, but it's not like I'm going to let it affect the rest of my beautiful vacation. There is simply too much positivity on the trip to be overshadowed by some random, bizarre occurrence. I've worked all my life to get to this point, so I'm not giving up now.

          Regardless, I need to help my friends out with the tents, so I make my way back to the upper half of the beach. 

          I'm sure exploring this mysterious watering hole will help take my mind off what happened.

          At least I hope so.