This holiday was already making huge inroads into my bucket list, but all my life I had wanted to swim with dolphins, and it was hard to take in that the moment had come. I set off over the never-ending Seven-mile Bridge, seemingly disappearing into infinity, to arrive at the Dolphin Research Centre.
I chose this place because it seemed so much less commercialised than others - the dolphins took priority and there were only basic facilities for visitors. The dolphins were cared for like family - they had plenty of space, the centre adjoined the ocean - and it was made clear to us that if the dolphins didn't feel like swimming with you, they were free to swim off! It was a massive learning experience too - and, corny though it may sound, every single second of my day there was magical. I hung around for hours after swimming, I didn't want to leave - I had encountered moments of great joy, and felt I had finally got in touch with my inner child. I won't bore you with every detail, suffice to say that I spent at least an hour with them in the water, in a very small group, that they were like friends, full of fun, giggles and loved the attention. Again, just pure, unadulterated joy.
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