Cruise Ship Excursion in St. Lucia, The Catamaran Ride, Part 2

30 April 201821 September 2024

Dave and I had just explored the island of St. Lucia by coach and we were ready for the second half of our tour. Our cruise ship tour in St. Lucia included a stop at the Diamond Botanical Gardens in the town of Soufriere. Covering approximately 6 acres, the oldest gardens in St. Lucia includes the Diamond Falls Waterfall, Mineral Springs and Spa, the Nature Trail and Botanical Gardens as well as the Old Mill Restaurant. It is a popular tourist spot and has been open for visitors since 1983.

Red Prumalina

Pink Ginger

Red Ginger

Chenille Plant

Coconut Shell Retaining Wall

Bird of Paradise

Pink Torch Ginger

Lobster Claw

Diamond Waterfall

Sulphur Springs

Once we completed the Diamond Mineral Waterfall and Botanical Gardens, we boarded the catamaran for lunch, a stop for swimming and Caribbean dancing. The harbor of Soufriere is such a beautiful, tranquil location to start the ride.

A close up view of the harbor with the various boats, the tropical trees and mountains in the distance.

As all of us boarded the catamaran and took our seats, the view as we left the harbor was breathtaking. I had been waiting for this moment to see the two Pitons.

I am always fascinated by the structures that are built into the hills. It looks like another cozy harbortown in St. Lucia!

I could not seem to take my eyes off of the Pitons in the distance.

Out of nowhere a loud blast comes from the port side of the catamaran and we noticed a St. Lucian on his boat blowing out of a conch shell.

The catamaran started to slow down and we were taking a little swim break in the cove. We only had about 30 minutes before we would depart, but it was a refreshing opportunity for those that were interested and the scenery was paradise picture perfect.

I opted to stay aboard for a couple of rum drinks and hung out with this little cutie driving the boat.

Everyone was called back to the boat so that we could meet up with the cruise ship prior to departure. We were able to watch the tour guides and brave (or tipsy) ship passengers danced to the island music.

Coming back into the harbor of Castries, we saw the ship in the distance. I was sad to leave because it was such a great day to visit St. Lucia and I looked forward to the opportunity of coming back again soon.

When you cruise, do you take the shore excursions or go out on your own? I would love to hear your pros and cons for both if you would kindly leave your message in the comments section below. Many thanks for joining us on our catamaran excursion in St. Lucia and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Diamond Falls & Mineral Baths
Soufriere Estate
PO Box 1020
Soufriere, St. Lucia, West Indies
Telephone: 758 459 7155

Admission Fee: Adults: $17.50 EC (US $7); Children: half price; Private Baths: $17.50 EC (US $7); Public Baths $15 EC (US $6); +10% VAT tax.
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 5PM. Open Sunday from 10AM to 3PM. Open public holidays from 10AM to 3:00PM.
Amenities: Diamond Falls waterfall, Mineral Baths & Spa, Botanical Gardens, Nature trail, Old Mill Restaurant.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Bring a bathing suit and additional change of clothes to enjoy the waterfall. Pool shoes are also recommended.

Where to Stay:

Fond Doux Resort
PO Box 250
Soufriere, Saint Lucia
Telephone: 758 459 7545

On a return trip, I stayed at the Fond Doux Resort on the southern side of the island in Soufriere. Booking a 1 Bedroom Cottage with a pool, I enjoyed the fabulous amenities of the property and enjoyed a long weekend of rest and relaxation. The Fond Doux Heritage Tour offers a fascinating look into the art of chocolate making and the opportunity to learn about local vegetation.

Where to Eat:

Fond Doux Resort
PO Box 250
Soufriere, Saint Lucia
Telephone: 758 459 7545

The Bamboo Restaurant & Bar serves lunch, so I ordered the Creole Fish to sample some of the local flavor, served with rice and salad.

For dinner, I was excited to see Lamontagne’s Cous Kaye with octopus and conch, served at the Cocoa Pod Restaurant

What to Eat:

Boudin – black pudding
Bouyon – beef soup with dumplings but other meats can substitute for beef
Callaloo soup – made with seafood or cuts of meat, okra, potatoes and garlic
Cassava Bread
Cow Heel Soup – a hearty soup with cow foot, carrots, pumpkin, chayote squash and yellow yam with dumplings
Curried Meats
Fried Plantains
Green figs and saltfish
Grilled Fish
Lambi – conch meat seasoned with multiple spices and then fried
Lobster
Pemme – cornmeal, pumpkin, cinnamon, sugar and dry coconut leaves then wrapped in banana leaves
Pepperpot – Caribbean dish made from onion, garlic, cinnamon, brown sugar, thyme, cloves, orange peel, cassareep and meat
Smoked herring and breadfruit – breadfruit is cooked until tender

What to Read:

Omeros, by Derek Walcott
A Room on the Hill, by Garth St. Omer
Don’t Believe It, by Charlie Donlea

Photo Guide for St. Lucia:

The Pitons from the Water
The Pitons from the Tet Paul Nature Trail
Sulpher Springs
Toraille Waterfall
Paradise Beach
Honeymoon Beach
Quarry Hill

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Downtown Walking Tour

19 March 20184 January 2025

At dawn, I caught my first glimpse of the beautiful island of St. Thomas with its sailboats and yachts in the harbor. A softness settled over the tranquil Caribbean Sea as the cruise ship approached the dock. The morning chill would soon be replaced by the heat of the sun rewarding us with another tropical day in paradise. Nestled in the cove of Charlotte Amalie, the ship had soon docked at Havensight, only a mile’s walk east of town.

Soon after the ship was tied up and the gangway set out on the dock, I grabbed my belongings and set off towards the village of Charlotte Amalie. The large shopping plaza, located between Post Office and Market squares, offers duty-free liquor, European imports and souvenirs for passengers and crew. Convenient for passengers who prefer to remain close to the harbor, I prefer to shop in town where prices are discounted at a higher rate.

After passing the market at the port, the start of my walk was hardly picturesque with older, industrial buildings lining the roadway. Yet within minutes, approaching Yacht Haven Grande, I explored several upscale shops and restaurants. Luxury cabin cruisers were docked along this popular plaza, ten minutes from the center of town.

The wooden boardwalk soon evolved into a concrete stretch of walkway passing the picturesque cove. With extraordinary views of the nearby islands, sailboats and working boats anchored nearby. One of sixty-eight islands that comprise the US Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is the largest of the four islands that are inhabited.

The sun burned off the last of the morning fog and the view stretched out for miles. A cool breeze masked the 95 degree heat as the walkway narrowed and curved towards the oceanfront village of Charlotte Amalie.

Before the US Virgin Islands were sold to the US, the islands were settled by the Danes in the 17^th century. The final stretch of my walk into town was the Legislature Building on the left and the Virgin Islands Museum. The beautiful museum, originally the 17^th century Fort Christian, is the island’s oldest building in continuous use. Converted into a jail, a church town hall, courthouse and governor’s residence, this museum displays the history of St. Thomas from the Stone Age to present.

Approaching the charming center of Charlotte Amalie, I immediately noticed the second story restaurant, Bumpa’s, with a spectacular view of the cove. Ordering a drink, I found the perfect 2-seater table to take in the picturesque view and map out my tour of the town. The cobalt waters and small boats bobbing along the bay tempted me to stay for the view, but I was excited to explore and learn more about the island’s history.

Stepping out of the restaurant, I found Dronningens Gade (Main Street) where numerous shops stood along the alleyway. Store attendants were standing outside offering discounted rates on jewelry and promised the best deals on the island.

After losing my way for a few minutes, I eventually reached a set of stairs that led me to Hotel 1829. Built as a residence for a French Sea Captain, this former home is now a hotel. Walking towards the entrance, I learned that there was a wedding taking place inside and it was closed for the private event.

Directional signs pointed me towards the scenic attractions I had planned to visit. Looking out into the ocean, I noticed a small clearing in the trees that framed the port of St. Thomas and its beautiful harbor. A set of steps, known as the 99 Steps, continued up the hill. Similar to the stairs I had seen in San Juan, these were also made from the stone ballasts once used to balance the load of old sailing ships.

The island is rich with pirate history so I was excited to visit Blackbeard’s Castle. Originally built by the Danes in 1679, the property, which is now a hotel, was a supposed location where Blackbeard would hang out on occasion.

The Skytsborg Tower sits on five acres, referred to as “The Williamsburg of the Caribbean”. Built in the 17th century this amazing stone structure by the Danes, offers a spectacular view of the harbor.

Making my descent back into town, I stopped to admire “The Three Rebel Queens of the Virgin Islands Fountain”. Unveiled in 2005, this beautiful monument created by Richard Hallier, commemorates the Fireburn Revolt. The Labor Riot, led by Queen Mary, Queen Agnes and Queen Mathilda, started out as a peaceful protest on the island of St. Croix due to small wages and difficult work conditions. Rumors began to circulate within the group that a laborer had been killed in police custody which led to the rioters looting the town and setting fire to the buildings and plantations. The three women were imprisoned as a result of the destruction and are represented in the sculpture carrying a lantern, torch and harvesting tool.

Continuing down the walkway towards town was the Crown House, a vibrant yellow colorful house with purple shutters came into view. This beautiful structure was built in the mid 1800s as the home of the island’s governor, Peter von Scholten. Designed in the style of West Indian architecture, it is currently a private residence.

In the heat of the day, the stroll back to the ship brought me to the Yacht Haven Grande once again. I took a seat on the patio at The Fat Turtle, facing the yachts and enjoyed a drink before checking out Paradise Point.

I decided to ride the cable car to the top of Paradise Point to have a couple of drinks and enjoy the view of the harbor. Although I had the option to take a taxi to the top, I paid the $21 for the St. Thomas Skyride. Boarding the gondola, the weather was just as perfect as the view. I could see the cruise ships and yachts docked in their assigned slips and all of the anchored boats and sailboats dotting the harbor. There were islands as far as the eye could see.

At Paradise Point, there was a shop that sold treasures from a sunken ship that was recently discovered. I had an interesting conversation with one of the divers and checked out the artifacts. I was hoping to take the 1/4-mile trail for views of St. Croix, but the trail was closed due to the previous week’s weather. Instead, I took a seat at Bailey’s Bushwacker overlooking the harbor and placed my order for the local Bushwacker and Key Lime drink. The Bushwacker is made up of 1 oz of the following: Pusser’s Rum (suggested), Vodka, Kahlua, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Amaretto, Frangelico and Crème de Cacao. That’s a lot of alcohol in this tiny, but yummy drink topped with whipped cream and a cherry on top, After a couple of Bushwackers, it was time to call it a day.

Do you have a favorite Caribbean port? I would love to hear about your preferred island and what activities or attractions you prefer. Just leave a comment below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Blackbeard’s Castle aka Skytsborg Tower:
Lille Taarne Gade
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 776 1234

If you would like to check out the attractions in Charlotte Amalie, download the Self Guided Downtown Historic Tour and Charlotte Amalie Map from www.virginislandsthisweek.com.

September 6, 2017 Update: This site is CLOSED due to the destruction of Hurricane Irma. A re-opening date is not available at this time.

Villa Notman in Kongens Quarter: next door to Blackbeard’s Castle

September 6, 2017 Update: This site is CLOSED at due to the destruction of Hurricane Irma. A re-opening date is not available at this time.

St. Thomas Skyride:
9617 Estate Thomas
St. Thomas, VI 00802
Phone: 340 774 9809

Admission Fee: $21 for Adults, $10.50 for children 12 and under; children under the age of 5 are FREE.
Hours: Open Monday from 9AM to 4PM, on Tuesday from 9AM to 5PM and on Wednesdays from 9AM to 9PM. Hours may vary depending on when ships are docked in the port of St. Thomas.
Amenities: Restaurant, Tram, Shopping Deck, Sundeck, Dining Room, Patio, Harbor Terrace, The Nest, a reception room for events.
Scenic View: Breathtaking views of St. Thomas’ Harbor from Paradise Point
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: You can also drive or hail a taxi to the top of Paradise Point.

Where to Stay:

Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham – St. Thomas
6080 Estate Smith Bay
St. Thomas, 00802, US Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 775 8300

Where to Eat:

Bumpa’s
38-A Waterfront Hwy
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The Fat Turtle is now permanently closed
Yacht Haven Grande
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
Phone: 340 714 3566

What to Eat:

Bull Foot Soup – also known as cow heel soup, it is made from the heel of a cow, vegetables and local spices
Conch
Fungi – Polenta made from ground cornmeal, Caribbean-style
Johnny Cakes – snack made from flour, butter and sugar
Kallaloo Soup – similar to gumbo, this soup is made from fish, greens, onion, okra and local spices
Lobster
Pate – similar to empanadas; dough filled with chicken, fish or beef
Roti – flatbread wraps filled with meat or vegetables

What to Read:

Caribbean: A Novel, by James Michener
Right Place, Wrong Time by Judith Arnold
Land of Love and Drowning: a novel, by Tiphanie Yanique

Photo Guide for St. Thomas

St. Thomas Ride Paradise for spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie
Megan’s Bay for pristine beaches
99 steps
Government House
Coki Beach for corals and amazing underwater life
Secret Harbour for squid, turtles and barracuda
Drake’s Bench for panoramic views
Brewer’s Beach Bay for viewing airplanes
Blackbeard’s Castle

The St. Thomas Harbor

The Yachts in St. Thomas

A View of the Ship from Town

The Islands Surrounding St. Thomas

Panoramic View of Charlotte Amalie and the St. Thomas Harbor

The exciting view of St. Thomas from Paradise Point

The cable cars on the St. Thomas Skyview Ride

The Carnival Liberty as seen from Paradise Point

The Port of St. Thomas

Drinks at Bumpa’s

St. Kitts Walking Tour

5 February 201816 September 2024

Today Dave and I will be escaping the Port Zante shopping plaza to visit the heart of Brassaterre in St. Kitts. Beautiful pastel colored structures welcomed us, just as with many other Caribbean ports, but we were eager to experience the West Indies feel of the island and could not wait to leave the crowds behind for a more relaxing day.

The security and welcome center sits at the end of the dock where cruise ship passengers must show their credentials to obtain passage to the dock. Once we crossed through the check point, we followed the signs that would take us into the island’s historical center. To our far left was a pier for the island ferry that connects St. Kitts to Nevis’ capital of Charlestown.

Before escaping the pier, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to pay $5 for a few photos with the island’s green vervet monkey. I was tempted to bring him back with me, but he wouldn’t fit into my bag. Such a fun start to my day on St. Kitts.

Immediately we arrived at the historical district starting with a visit to the National Museum. Formerly the city’s treasury building, it is quite noticeable with its large rotunda and archway entrance. When sugar cane was once the primary income for St. Kitts, this building was an important part of the island’s economic structure.

Walking deeper into town, the charming architecture mimics that of Sint Maarten with its gingerbread trim. We noticed a green cast iron clock with fountains on each side. Located in the center of a circular roundabout, it is known as “The Circus”, reminiscent of London’s Piccadilly Circus. Where several roads meet in the middle, the Berkeley Memorial Clock pays respect to the former president of St. Kitts’ Legislative Assembly, Thomas Berkeley.

Our walk takes us towards the right, away from the clock tower and approaching Independence Square. Originally named Pall Mall, this was once a slave market where enslaved Africans would congregate to sell their merchandise.

Surrounding the park were 18th century warehouses where slaves were held prior to being sold. These structures stand as a reminder of St. Kitts’ past. In 1983, it was renamed Independence Square to commemorate the independence of St. Kitts and St. Nevis from the rule of Great Britain.

Leaving the square, we found Cayon Street which led us to St. George’s Anglican Church. This beautiful, brownstone chapel was constructed in 1869 and sits on a former battle site. Built over land where soldiers had died, many believe its location is the reason for its series of catastrophes dating back to 1670 when it was first erected.

Walking towards the back of the church, we learned from an older couple that visitors could climb to the top of the bell tower. If there is one thing that I love, it is a scenic view, so I headed back inside where I noticed a small door. Although the opening was tight, there was a small winding staircase and another set of stairs that led to the top.

The stairs were steep so a few who had set out for the climb decided to return downstairs. I was glad I reached the top because the view was worth the climb. There were small cut-outs in the rock were I could capture a view from each side of the bell tower. From one location I could see the neighborhood streets of St. Kitts.

Towards the north was the cloudy peak of the mountain.

The cruise ships in port dominated the scenery at the south.

And on the east end, I caught a glimpse of the island’s football (soccer) field. I was careful not to step directly on the tin roof in fear that it may collapse. As I was taking the steep ladder and stairs down to the bottom, I was alarmed by the sound of the bells as they rang from the clocktower.

The cathedral marked the end of our walking tour and Dave suggested we stop at a local restaurant for a couple of Caribe beers. We ordered the special, 3 for $5 before making our way back to the ship.

We passed through security and continued our walk on the pier greeted by two ships in the distance. There was plenty of time between now until our departure, but we decided to board early for some time to recharge and reminisce about another beautiful day in paradise.

Do you prefer taking a ship excursion for each port or would you rather go out on your own? I would love to hear your pros and cons in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about our time in St.Kitts! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The National Museum
Bay Road
Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

Admission Fee: Adults and Children: US $3
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9:15AM to 5PM. Open Saturday from 9:15AM to 1PM on Saturday and on Sunday from 9AM to 1PM.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The museum is within walking distance from the port.

Independence Square
Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

St. George’s Anglican Church
Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis
Telephone: 869 465 2167

Where to Stay:

Royal St. Kitts Hotel
406 Zenway Boulevard
Frigate Bay, St Kitts & Nevis
Telephone: 869 465 8651

Where to Eat:

Marshalls
Horizon Villa Resort
Fort Tyson Rise
Basseterre, St. Kitts
Telephone: 869 466 8245

The view from Marshalls is spectacular with the restaurant overlooking the gorgeous harbor. David and I decided to order several starters because their descriptions were enticing. We selected the Freshly Caught White Ceviche marinated in lime, red onions, cilantro and hot peppers, garnished with green plantain chips, the Conch Fritters spiced with bell peppers, onion, celery, served with tartar sauce, the crab cake served with remoulade sauce and escargots. For our main entree, we shared the Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass enhanced with olive tapenade served with lemon beurre blanc. The carrot cake was decadent and we could not pass up the chocolatey molten chocolate cake.

What to Eat:

Blood Pudding, a cuisine influenced by the island’s former British rule
Conch Fritters
Cook up, also known as Pelau, this dish is a local favorite with a mix of meats (usually beef, salt fish and pork), additional ingredients include rice, pigeon peas and a number of vegetables.
Goat Water – local goat stew
Johnny Cakes a sweet, flour based cake that is deep fried
Lobster
Roti – unleavened flat bread filled with a variety of meats and/or vegetables
Salt Fish and Dumplings, the island’s national dish, this meal is made of local salt fish, breadfruit, coconut dumplings and spicy plantains.
Sugar Cake – a desert made of sugar, coconut and ginger

What to Read:

The Reef, by Nora Roberts
Sweeter than Dreams, by Olga Bicos
Swords, Ships and Sugar: History of Nevis, by Vincent K. Hubbard
Returns, by Shannon Shaw

Photo Guide for St. Kitts:

Cockleshell Beach
Historic Basseterre
Mount Liamuiga
Romney Manor
Timothy Hill

Another entrance into Independence Square, St. Kitts

Inside the Church of the Immaculate Conception

Inside St. George’s Anglican Church

The beautiful Stained Glass Windows inside of St. George’s Anglican Church

Shopping in St. Kitts

Standing between two towering ships!

Leaving the port of St. Kitts!

Ship’s Ahoy! Pirate Boat Shore Excursion, Antigua

17 November 201531 August 2024

Cruising through the Caribbean, I finally reached the island of Antigua. Known for its beautiful beaches, historical forts and dockyard as well as its natural landscape, I was interested in purchasing the “Best of Antigua” excursion. Unfortunately, it was sold out. With limited options available from the ship, I decided to board a local Pirate Cruise for the afternoon which included a stop at the beach with drinks included.

Announcements were made for passengers holding tickets for the ship’s excursions to make their way to the meeting area prior to leaving. Crowds of passengers headed down towards the dock where we awaited the arrival of the pirate vessel. According to the literature, this tall ship was used in the filming of “Pirates of the Caribbean”, which made the experience even more exciting. Anyone up for a sword fight against Jack Sparrow?

We boarded the Black Swan and checked out its main deck and masts as well as the Jolly Roger flag. The crew gave us a safety presentation followed by an overview of the parts of a pirate ship. We learned how pirates would circumnavigate the Caribbean in search of trade ships to plunder as we sailed the open waters.

The small white caps of the waves were proof of a calm, gentle sailing. It was the perfect ship to shore experience. The informational session continued as we coasted towards Deep Bay beach. We would have an hour and a half to explore the coast by hiking the trail towards Fort Barrington on Goat Hill or take the opportunity to sunbathe.

The craggy rocks would have made sailing these waters dangerous for both merchants and pirates. The outcroppings and coves would have been the perfect protection for pirates surviving the islands, raiding merchants ships and stealing their cargo.

Cruising through the passageway we noticed a stone fort perched upon the hill. Just as we were passing by, the sound of cannons boomed from the mound and pirates threatened to board our ship. So the battle began.

The reenactment between the pirates on the island lasted about 10 to 15 minutes. It was just enough time to bring us to the beach where we hopped off for some fun in the sun.

We safely approached the bay and were greeted by other sailboats and pontoons in a beautiful harbor setting.

We were tendered off of the pirate ship to the beautiful sandy beach of Deep Bay. From here, we climbed the trail towards the fort in search of buried treasure taking in the stunning coastline of the harbor. It was a short hike and I had some extra time to enjoy the surf and sand.

The clouds began to roll in protecting us from the heat of the day. The water was crystal clear and the perfect temperature for a short swim. In the distance, sailboats were anchored off shore providing a picture perfect view and the salty air was the best therapy I could have ever imagined.

On our return, we indulged in the unlimited, free Pirate Punch provided by the pirate ship crew. We enjoyed the music and dancing as we tried on our pirate headgear looking fierce and ready for a take-down. The brave ones were challenged with the opportunity to “steer” the boat while the rest of us relaxed, sipping on pirate juice.

We arrived at the dock with about an hour remaining. I had time to stop by The Island Beehive, a popular bar for cruise ship passengers that specialized in fruity cocktails and people watching. Shops surrounding the square filled with tourists shopping for local deals while Antiguans were dancing in the streets, entertaining us with their local zydeco music.

It was finally time to stroll back to the ship where I could see a pier off into the distance. I was happy to have the short visit, but as always, cruising reminds me of my former life as a cruise ship purse. Always a great time with the friends I made from one ship to the next. How I miss those laid-back, worry-free days.

The cruise ship was within sight and I had plenty of time before departure. I couldn’t help but think back to my days at sea when I would return to a port each week, but unfortunately those days were gone. I learned so much from my work with the cruise lines, such as the island culture and its history. I always look forward to an island cruise to reminisce about those irreplaceable memories.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Antigua/Barbuda? Did you arrive by cruise ship or stay for an extended period of time? I would love to hear about the places you visited, the restaurants where you dined and the memories that you made if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Thank you for taking the time to read about my experience in Antigua and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Black Swan: This excursion was booked through the cruise line.

Where to Stay:

Cocobay Antigua
Hughes Point
St. Phillips, Antigua, West Indies
Telephone: 268 736 8000

Where to Eat:

Sheer Rocks at Cocobay Resort
Ffryes Beach, Valley Road
St. Mary’s, Antigua, West Indies
Telephone: 268 463 6161

We started with the Seafood Risotto, Pan Roasted Grouper and a glass of Muscadet Sevre et Maine. Saving room for dessert, we ordered the Banana and Rum Cake as well as the Passion Fruit Mousse. The meal was spectacular!

What to Eat:

Antiguan black pineapple is sweeter than the traditional pineapple and lower acidity.
Antiguan butter bread – a staple bread in Antigua
Ducana is dumpling filled with sweet potato, grated coconut, sugar and spices and placed between banana leaves. This delicious appetizer is either fried or boiled.
Fungee and Pepperpot Stew is a hearty stew with meat and vegetables that is simmered for hours; paired with a cornmeal and okra based bread for dipping
Saltfish, an abundant seafood of the island.

What to Read:

Books by Jamaica Kincaid
Sailing for Home, Theo Dorgan
Journeycakes: Memories with My Antiguan Mama by Monica Matthew

Photo Guide for Antigua and Barbuda:

The colorful port of St. John, best taken from the end of the fishing pier
View of the English Harbor from Shirley Heights
Galley Bay, the island’s most popular beach
The white sands of Ffryes Beach
Half Moon Bay, Antigua
Pink Sand Beach of Barbuda
Betty’s Hope Historic Sugar Plantation
Fort James
Nelson’s Dockyard
Sunset from Jolly Beach and Jolly Harbour, best seen from helicopter
Red telephone booth at Dickensen Bay at Antigua
The Causeway in English Harbour, Antigua

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Five Reasons You Should Visit the Grand Canyon This Summer

18 August 201431 August 2024

2016 is a special year for the United States National Park Service as they celebrate their 100^th anniversary. What better way to commemorate this milestone than to visit one of their amazing parks this year?

Maybe you should consider The Grand Canyon National Park located outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. This is one of my favorite parks to visit in the US for several reasons, but here are my top five:

The Winding Colorado River, Grand Canyon

The Scenery and Landscapes
How could I even begin to describe the awe that comes from viewing the Grand Canyon? It seems unimaginable that the power of one river, the Colorado, could carve out something so beautiful over a long period of time. With a length of 277 miles and stretching 18 miles wide, this geological phenomenon attracts close to 5 million visitors each year.

April Snow on the Grand Canyon

In addition to the enormity of the canyon, the layer upon layer of color is the perfect backdrop to a kaleidoscope landscape. The park is divided into two sections, the North Rim, reaching heights of about 1,000 feet over the South Rim. This difference in elevation means that the North Rim’s temperature is colder and access to this section of the canyon is limited during the winter season. During one of our visits in April, there was evidence of a recent snowfall.

Depending on the weather, the South Rim is typically open all year round while the North Rim is generally open mid-May to mid-October.

The Fabulous View of the Colorado River, Grand Canyon

History
The Grand Canyon has been inhabited for thousands of years with its first settlements erected by the Native Americans. Known by the Indians as “Ongtupqa”, this was a holy site and pilgrimages were made to this canyon and its many caves. One of the most interesting sites of Indian habitation is located at Nankoweap Creek where ancestral granaries can be found along the Colorado River. Fast forward a few hundred years and the area would eventually be visited by the Spanish and later the Americans. It would one day become a preserve established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906 and then declared as the 17^th US National Park in the year 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson.

Desert View Watchtower

Driving or Tram Tour
Many of the buildings, sites and attractions are located on the South Rim and are easily accessible from Grand Canyon Village. The park provides a tram on the grounds which is also very convenient, stopping at the major sites. Here are some of the points of interest on the South Rim.

There are several structures on the South Rim that were designed by Mary Colter to include Bright Angel Lodge, Hopi House, Lookout Studio and one of my favorites, Desert View Watchtower.
Considered the most luxurious of all of the Grand Canyon hotels is the El Tovar Hotel. It was designed by Charles Whittlesely and completed in 1905 in the style of “National Park Rustic”.
Verkamp’s Curios was a popular place to pick up souvenirs and local arts and crafts. It was reopened in 2010 as a visitor center dedicated to the history of the Grand Canyon Village.
Buckey O’Neill Cabin is the “longest continually standing structure”, built in the 1890s. It is currently open as a popular guest house requiring reservations many months in advance.
Kolb Studio was built by two brothers in 1904 as a photography studio on site. The structure became an art gallery after Emery Kolb’s passing in 1976.
One of the most interesting buildings that remains in the park is the Grand Canyon Railway Depot which is said to be one of the last log cabin train stations ever built in the US.

You can also choose to drive the route yourself which will allow you ample time to enjoy the attractions at your own pace.

Stairs Leading down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Hiking

Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular activities within the Grand Canyon. There are several trails that follow the rim of the canyon as well as take hikers deep down into the gorge, reaching the Colorado River. In addition to the strenuous activity of hiking, there are other factors to consider before hitting the trail, such as altitude and weather. Temperatures can reach over 100° F down in the gorge during the summer months and can fall way below freezing in the winter. Hikers must be aware of such effects as sunburn, dehydration and hypothermia.

Plants and Animals
If you are a lover of plants or animals, the Grand Canyon is your paradise. According to Grand Canyon National Park, there are “approximately 1,737 known species of vascular plants, 167 species of fungi, 64 species of moss and 195 species of lichen found in Grand Canyon National Park”. I agree that the plant life is a very important part of the Grand Canyon’s ecology, but I have a greater interest in the wildlife and I am overwhelmed by the number of species that make the canyon their home. Within the park and its environs are an abundance of mammal species. In addition there are birds, fish, amphibians as well as reptiles. Here is an abbreviated list of some of the animals that have been found in the canyon:

· Abert’s squirrels	· Feral burros	· Red squirrels
· Antelope squirrels	· Gray foxes	· Ringtails
· Beavers	· Mountain lions, rare	· Rock squirrels
· Black bears	· Mule deer	· Shrews
· Bobcats	· Muskrats, rare	· Spotted skunks
· Coyotes	· Pocket mice	· Tassel-eared Squirrels
· Desert bighorn sheep	· Porcupines	· Weasels
· Elk	· Raccoons

It is always appropriate to remain cautious should you encounter one of the wild animals at Grand Canyon. Do not feed the animals and stay far enough away to ensure your well-being as well as the animal’s safety.

Although the Grand Canyon is not the deepest canyon in the world, it certainly is spectacular. From hiking to driving, rafting to camping, there are so many other ways to explore this amazing national park. And just when you think you have exhausted all possibilities of things to do, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of this magnificent gorge by helicopter. With its colorful landscape and fascinating geology, it is one of the most interesting of all of the National Parks in the United States.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon? What is your favorite activity? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Grand Canyon and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Telephone: 928 638 7888

Admission Fee: $35 per vehicle for seven days; $30 per motorcycle for seven days; $20 per individual (biker, hiker, pedestrian) for seven days; Annual pass for Grand Canyon only: $70
Hours: The South Rim is 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The North Rim is closed during the winter, so check the sites website for the most recent information.
Amenities: Shuttle system, picnicking, hiking, camping, guided tours, ranger programs, river trips, mule trips, backpacking
Scenic View: Sunset and sunrise from most anywhere in the canyon are spectacular, but the website provides a great list of stops for enjoying sunrise and sunset. ;
Length of Visit: Several days
Tips for Your Visit: The park’s website has a few suggestions such as bring an extra set of keys in the event you lock yourself out because it could be a long wait for a locksmith. Major car repairs in Flagstaff or Williams, Arizona. Keep your gas tank full as the closest gas station may be quite a distance. Finally, carry plenty of water in your car, especially during the summer months.

Where to Stay:

Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Telephone: 928 638 7888

There are several hotels on the South Rim to include Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, Maswik Lodge. There is also an RV park, Yavapai Lodge. For reservations, contact 888 297 2757. If the onsite accommodations are full, there are several hotels surrounding the Grand Canyon.

Phantom Ranch offers dormitories and cabins who are exploring the Grand Canyon by mule or by hiking. Reservations are made through Grand Canyon National Park Lodges via an on-line lottery 15 months in advance.

Where to Eat:

Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Telephone: 928 638 7888

For a list of restaurants and groceries at The Grand Canyon, select the following link: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/restaurants.htm

What to Eat:

Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig. This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
Tamales!

What to Read:

The Emerald Isle: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko
Grand Canyon, by Jason Chin
The Exploration of the Colorado River and the Canyons, by John Wesley
Over the Edge: Death in the Grand Canyon, by Michael P. Ghiglieri and Thomas M. Myers
The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey
I am the Grand Canyon, by Stephen Hirst

Photo Guide for the Grand Canyon:

South Rim Viewpoints: Yavapai Point
Mather Point
Desert View Drive
Shoshone Point
Yaki Point
Grandview Point
Navaho Point
Desert View Watchtower
Hermit Road
Horseshoe Bend
Bright Angel Point
Point Imperial
Cape Royal
Toroweap / Tuweep
Havasu Falls
Best places to watch the sunset:
- Lipan Point
- Navajo Point
- Yavapai Point
- Toroweep
- Point Imperial
- Cape Royal