“Caribbean Vacation" (not starring Chevy Chase): Part 2

Leslie, my new-found guide to paradise walk over to a shelf filled with piles of brochures, gathered a select few and brought them over to the table. She sat down beside me and commenced with, “I have a picked a few of our more creative ideas for you to take a look at, based on the vision you gave me.” A little chest swelling on my end, and she continued: “Here’s the one I think was made, or dare I say created for this occasion. It is called the Caribbean Legacy Cruise (tidal wave swell in the chest) and is really for the discerning (more swell) adult who wants to find the treasures buried (more swell) in and around the magic waters (even more swell) of the Caribbean (stand back, there might be a swell explosion).

“Here’s the highlights,” she said while causally pointing to the rich color photographs melting across the pages of the glossy brochure:

• Multi-mast sailing vessel, The Caribbean Legacy;
• Ten-day islands getaway;
• Limited to 20 couples;
• Relaxing, exotic, luxurious, pampering, fine dining;
• Small, experienced crew understanding the meaning of “touch” and “service”;
• Private island visits, discoveries, swimming, snorkeling;
• The only schedule to keep…is yours;
• Bring your imagination;
• Experience a lasting and treasured legacy.

Considering myself a discerning adult (I am a professional; my business card says so), I listened quietly, expressionless, occasionally dimpling my brow (a professional “discerning” gesture) and nodding. This was to adroitly mask the images that were whirling around my imagination like a runaway carousel:

• LOTS of white linen clothing, and less…and romance;
• Sunning on the spacious deck like lazy turtles, gesturing periodically (with merely a nod) for the prompt arrival of a single-malt scotch for me and some bubbly for the lady…and romance;
• Scarlet lobsters literally bounding gleefully on board, with (sacrificial) buttery anticipation of our delicious appreciation…and romance;
• No phones, clients, deadlines…and (oh yes) romance.

“Well Leslie, I make it a policy to never say ‘yes’ to a first suggestion without hearing all the options; and because you have really ‘gotten’ what I am all about this might be the first time. I’m oblivious as to how, on your first attempt, you could possibly have found anything more perfectly suitable for Valerie and me.” I still portrayed a modicum of cool, unmistakable through my unflinching demeanor and monotone tonality (though my heart was pounding wildly).” I milked the ‘discerning’ pause a bit more, and then brought it down the home stretch. “I think that if I am correct, and I am a pretty good judge of people, you like to do business with people who know what they want…and claim it, right?” She smiled and nodded; I had her in the palm of my hand. Now, for the clincher. “I’d like to know the ‘real’ price if I were to write you a check, today -- that’s right, cash right now, as the deposit for this perfect vacation.”

Clear. Concise. Commanding. Deadly.

I had her in the palm of my hand.

“Wow, Brian…may I call you Brian (bonding attempt; good sign)? That sounds fantastic (better sign). Here’s the deal: The fixed inclusive price per couple for this ten-day journey is $20,000. And you’ll be pleased to know that this does include all your air, ground, food, drink and gratuities.” Pause. “So, should I go ahead and write this up for you, Brian?”

Clear. Concise. Commanding. Deadly.

She had me in the palm of her hand.

For emphasis – (b)