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Holland, Michigan: True to its Dutch Heritage

30 April 201615 September 2024

As my family continues to grow, our vacations are typically based on two factors:  driving distance to our destination and space for all of the kiddos.   If we can find a beach (lake or ocean) and a list of fun attractions, that is also a plus.  After coming up with several ideas and narrowing our search, we all agreed to spend our summer vacation near Traverse City, Michigan with an overnight stop in Holland.

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I had recently visited Holland during a visit to the city’s annual Tulip Time Festival and recommended it as the overnight stop for our trip.  I was impressed with the local attractions, restaurants and shopping opportunities as well as its absolute charm.

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Our first stop in Holland was the city’s state park.  After strolling the beautiful coastline and watching the locals fish from the pier, we headed downtown for an early dinner.  We could not have asked for better weather with sunny skies and a cool breeze.

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The fish were biting and we saw a young boy taking his catch to the end of the dock to drop it into a bucket. Lake Michigan is full of fish including bass, trout, catfish, perch, walleye, bass as well as salmon.

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On the way back from the pier, we took a closer look at the beautiful red lighthouse on the opposite side of the channel.  We learned that the locals call it “Big Red” , but its official name is the Holland Harbor Light.  It plays an important role for guiding the boats through the channel between Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa.

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Strolling along the beach, we worked up an appetite and decided it was time to find a restaurant that could accommodate all of us.  The trip into Holland did not take but a few minutes and we were able to find parking on 8th street, the main shopping and restaurant district of town.

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We decided on Crust 54 where we ordered pizza and pasta.  The place was packed, but we were able to find seating for our group of six.   We stepped up to the counter to order and they brought our food to us when it was ready.  The Chicago Special pizza with Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers and onions was abundantly cheesy and delicious.

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The sun was beginning to set and we had a little time to shop before reaching the hotel.  Holland is typical small town America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.   It has won several awards and was ranked by the well-being index as the second healthiest/happiest town in the United States.  CNN ranked it as one of the top five places to retire in 2006.

Have you vacationed in Holland or live here? I would love to hear your suggestions for where to eat and shop if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my family vacation stay in Holland!  Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Holland State Park
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49424
Telephone:  616 399 9390

Holland Harbor Light
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI  49424
Telephone:  616 399 9390

Where to Stay: 

Baert Baron Mansion
120 S. Church Street
Zeeland, MI 49464
Telephone: 616 748 1953

Where to Eat: 

Crust 54 – Downtown Holland
54 E. 8th Street
Holland, MI  49423
Telephone:  616 394 3002

Where to Drink: 

  • Bam! Brewing
  • Big Lake Brewing
  • Brewery 4TWO4
  • Coppercraft Distillery
  • Great Lakes Winery Brewery Distillery
  • Hopland Brewstillery
  • New Holland Brewing Company
  • Our Brewing Companies
  • Warner Vineyards

What to Read:

  • Holland, the Tulip Town, by Randall P. Vande Water
  • Boats Made in Holland: A Michigan Tradition, by Geoffrey D. Reynolds
  • Holland, Michigan: From Dutch Colony to Dynamic City, by Robert P. Swierenga

Photo Guide for Tulip Time and Holland: 

  • The Fields of Tulips throughout the city
  • DeZwaan Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens
  • Sunset on Lake Michigan
  • Polder Molen Windmill at Nelis’ Dutch Village
  • Dutch Dancers
  • Nelis’ Dutch Village:  landscaped gardens, canals, carousel, brick walkways, gardens of tulips, petting farm, Carillon Bell Tower, The East Gate, Dutch houses
  • Windmill Island Gardens, merry-go-round, carousel, dutch dancers

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

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A Young Boy and his Fish

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Barbados Shore Excursion: Malibu Rum Tour and Beach

24 November 201531 August 2024

Update:  Malibu Rum Distillery is now The West Indies Rum Distillery

Barbados was one of my favorite ports of call when I worked for the cruise lines.  In addition to visiting all of the historic sites, I loved its coastal beauty.  So years later, when I had an opportunity to visit Barbados again, I wanted to visit the Malibu Rum distillery and its nearby beach.  Exiting the ship, I strolled through the duty free shops and found the taxi stand located outside of the shopping plaza.   I hired a driver for the short 7 minute ride.

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One of the Caribbean’s southernmost islands in the West Indies, the island is known for its rum, beaches, natural wonders and cuisine.  I was looking forward to a relaxing  afternoon soaking up the sun and drinking some fruity Malibu Rum drinks.

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It was easy to find a cab to take me to the Malibu Rum Distillery.  Malibu is the largest coconut rum producer on the island and I love its tropical taste. I entered through a small garden where I found the ticket counter to purchase my tour ticket.  The entry fee allowed me a tour through the distillery, a welcome drink which included the yummy rum and entrance to Malibu Beach with a complimentary beach chair to use for the afternoon.  With ticket in hand, I made my way to the guide for the start of the tour.

Update:  The Malibu Rum Distillery is now the West Indies Rum Distillery

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I learned the process of making rum, the secrets to perfecting the flavor where the tour guide walked me and the group through the process of fermentation, aging and the blending of the liquor.

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Following the informative rum tour, I could not wait to sink my toes in the sand and enjoy the stunning beach with its pure white sand and clear blue waters.  There was a variety of water activities that were free or available for purchase.  I pulled up a lounge chair and clearly enjoyed the beautiful surroundings as well as a couple of free (Malibu rum) mixed drinks.  The cold fruitiness of the drink, the summer breeze and the refreshing waters were a perfect ending to my limited visit on the island of Barbados.

After a couple of hours, I made arrangements for a taxi to return me back to the ship just in time for sailing.

Barbados is a beautiful island that I loved during my days working for the cruise lines.  I can’t wait to explore Barbados again on another cruise in the future.    What a beautiful day in paradise!

Have you visited the island of Barbados?  What did you enjoy the most about your vacation?  I would love to hear about your experience if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my wonderful visit to the island of flying-fish soup and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

The West Indies Rum Distillery
Brighton Beach, Barbados
Telephone:  246 425 9300

Home of Cockspur and Malibu Rum

Where to Stay:

Accra Beach Hotel
Rockley, BB15139
Christchurch
Bridgetown, Barbados
Telephone: 246 435 8920

Where to Eat:

Waterfront Cafe
The Careenage, Bridgetown
St. Michael, Barbados
Telephone:  246 427 0093

What to Eat:

  • Flying fish and cou cou is the national dish of the island
  • Black Cake is baked with dried cherries, prunes and raisins with a little rum added to it.
  • Conkies are sweet desserts made from corn meal, raisins, coconut, and pumpkins with sugar cane and spices which is then put inside of a banana leaf and steamed.
  • Cutters are small sandwiches usually made up of ham, cheese or egg and served with a salad.
  • Fishcakes and Bakes are weekend meals usually cooked for fishfrys. The fish is usually cod, fried in a batter seasoned with local spices and herbs.  Bakes are a form of bread made of flour, salt and water and once baked, dipped in hot sauce.
  • Jug Jug is a casserole made from a mixture of beef and pork along with pigeon peas, onions, hot peppers, corn and stewed.
  • Macaroni pie is similar to macaroni and cheese with onion, herbs and ketchup added to it and topped with breadcrumbs and baked.
  • Pig Tails are a local street food made from the meaty part of the pig tail.
  • Sea Urchins which are stewed or fried.
  • Souse and pudding is a pork and potato dish made from sweet potatoes seasoned with local herbs.

What to Read:

  • Triangular Road: A Memoir, by Paule Marshall
  • Captain Blood by Rafael Sabatini
  • A Tan and Sandy Silence, by John D. MacDonald
  • The Seven Lives of Lady Barker, by Betty Gilderdale
  • The Tale of the Body Thief, by Anne Rice
  • Testimony of an Irish Slave Girl, by Kate McCafferty

Photo Guide for Barbados: 

  • Andromeda Botanical Gardens in the east is home to over six acres of flowers and plants
  • The Animal Flower Cave in St. Lucy for spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and interesting formations in the cave
  • Barbados Wildlife Reserve in St. Peter to photograph the local Green Monkey.
  • Bath in St. John for stunning views and a popular picnic spot
  • Bottom Bay in St. Philip is known for its rugged, towering cliffs on the southeast side of the island.
  • Bridgetown in St. Michael is a lovely location to photograph its architecture, harbor and charming capitol.
  • Cattlewash and Bathsheba in the east are fabulous surfing locations with large boulders and spectacular beaches.
  • Codrington College built in 1743 is the oldest Anglican Theological College in the Western Hemisphere. The architecture and grounds are absolutely stunning and is one of the most photographed locations on the island.
  • Cove Bay in St. Lucy offers panoramic views of the rocky coastline
  • Culpepper Island is on the east side of the island and only accessible at low tide, located approximately on hundred yards off of the coast.
  • Crane Beach in St. Philip offers pink sand and rugged cliffs.  Most photographed from the Crane Beach Hotel, this location is on the southeast side of the island.
  • East Point Lighthouse is located at Ragged Point and provides a stunning backdrop for views of the coast.
  • Farley Hill National Park in St. Peter was built on a hill with outstanding views of the east coast.  Photograph the architectural ruins and cliffside structure.
  • The Flower Forest is located on the north side of the island that offers panoramic views of beautiful gardens
  • The Garrison in St. Michael is home to several historic buildings and attractions.  The Garrison Savannah is open seasonally offering horse racing.
  • Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary on the south side of the island is home to wildlife set on thirty five acres.
  • Grenade Hall Signal Station in St. Peter was once used to send signals across the island. Beautifully restored, its beautiful views include the surrounding forest and forest trail.
  • Gun Hill Signal Station in St. George is one of two signal stations recently renovated.  Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the large lion statue and panoramic views of the island.
  • Miami Beach / Enterprise Beach for white sandy beaches and turquoise blue seas
  • Morgan Lewis Windmill in St. Andrew was built in 1776 and on the site of the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill.  Cherry Tree Hill is north of the windmill and offers panoramic views of the east coast and mahogany forest
  • Orchid World in St. George to photograph a wide variety of orchids
  • Speightstown in St. Peter is great for photographing architecture
  • St. John’s Church in St. John offers stunning gothic architecture and awesome views.
  • St. Martin’s Bay in St. John is a charming fishing village with breathtaking views of the coastline
  • Sunbury Plantation House on the south side of the island is a historical plantation set in a mahogany forest.
  • Welchman Hall Gully in St. Thomas is a great place to photograph plants and the Barbados Green Monkey.  Welchman Hall is a spectacular building that measures nearly three quarters of a mile long.

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

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Visit Historic Dublin, Ohio

15 September 201531 August 2024

I settled into Dublin, Ohio after moving from San Clemente, California and loved the charm of this lovely Midwest neighborhood.  While I have since moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, here were some of my favorite places to visit.

Historic Dublin, Ohio is located on the corners of Bridge and High Streets.  Once an area home to the Scioto Indians, Dublin is a sought-after suburb in Columbus.  There are several business districts, a large number of restaurants and shopping venues with a historic district that has maintained its appeal.

La Chatelaine, a French Bakery and Bistro, made its debut in Dublin in 1991.  I couldn’t wait for Saturdays to purchase Brioche rolls for the week and choose from their large selections of fresh pastries as well.  From chocolate croissants to coconut macaroons, I enjoyed selecting a few for a late afternoon indulgence.

Happy Hours are best spent at the Dublin Village Tavern.  Before prohibition, the Tavern was only one of the many pubs that lined the street.  Considered one of the rowdiest, it is  most certainly referenced in this ballad.  “Dublin, Dublin, city of beautiful roses, Gouged out eyes and bloody noses, If it weren’t for the solid rock foundation, It’d be gone to hell and damnation!”   Fortunately, this lovely town is not as rambunctious as it once was and the Village Tavern is a great place to meet up with friends and make new ones.

Jeni’s Ice Cream (now Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream) was also a frequent stop throughout the week.  When out-of-town friends would stop for a visit, it was always such a great excuse to visit.  The company makes “one-of-a-kind flavors with Direct and Fair Trade ingredients and super fresh milk from family dairy farms”.  My favorite flavor was Queen City Cayenne which was a spicy, chocolate ice cream, but I am also a fan of the Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Salty Caramel, Gooey Butter Cake and Buttercream Birthday Cake.  There are so many amazing flavors!

For an amazing steak in historical Dublin, my favorite restaurant is Oscar’s Bar and Grill.  With a lovely, rustic setting, this restaurant offers an incredible selection of entrees, but in my opinion, their finest dish is the  8 oz. filet.  For a side dish, my go-to options are either the cranberry balsamic salad or the fried Brussel sprouts.

Looking for an Italian restaurant in historic Dublin?  Look no further than Mezzo.  From Arancini to Winter Squash and Radicchio Salad, there is a large number of dishes to satisfy that Italian craving.  For starters, the Truffle bread is one of my go-to selections but I am also tempted by the Cheese & Charcuterie board when I am dining with a friend or two.   My favorite soup and salad option is the Wedding Soup and Salmon Kale salad, but if I want a hearty meal that tastes like Italy, I can’t wait to dig into a Margherita Pizza or the rich, filling Carbonara.  Somehow, I always find room for the Spumoni or an after-dinner Limoncello liqueur.

J. Liu is the perfect place when you are craving Asian-inspired dishes.  My only problem is that the offer so many delicious appetizers, that I have a difficult time making a choice.  My favorites include the crab rangoons, spring rolls, potstickers and the lettuce wraps.  However, if I’m in the mood for an entree, I can never go wrong with the miso salmon or the poke bowl.

What to See and What to Do:

Le Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro
65 W. Bridge Street
Dublin, OH 43017
Telephone:  614 763 7151
Hours:  Monday – Saturday from 8AM to 3PM
Tip for your visit:  Arrive early for the best selections and breads and pastries.

Dublin Village Tavern
27 S. High Street
Dublin, OH 43017
Telephone:  614 766 6250
Hours:  Monday – Saturday from 11AM to 11PM; Sunday from 12PM to 9PM;
Tip for your visit:  Order their eggrolls and house-made chowder!

Oscar’s of Dublin
84 N. High Street
Dublin, OH 43017
Telephone: 614 792 3424
Hours:  Lunch:  Tuesday – Friday from 11:30AM to 2:30PM; Dinner:  Monday – Saturday from 5PM to close.
Tip for your visit:  Make reservations ahead as this restaurant books up during the summer.

Mezzo
12 West Bridge Street
Dublin, OH  43017
Telephone:  614 889 6100
Hours:   Monday from 4PM to 9PM, Tuesday and Wednesday from 4PM to 10PM; Thursday from 11:30AM to 10PM; Friday and Saturday from 11:30AM to 11PM; and Sunday from 11:30AM to 9PM.
Tip for your visit: The restaurant is now serving lunch!

J. Liu Restaurant and Bar
50 West Bridge Street
Dublin, OH  43017
Telephone:  614 718 1818
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11AM – 9PM; Friday: 11AM – 10PM; Saturday: 4PM – 10PM and Sunday from 4PM – 8PM
Tip for your Visit:  Bring lots of friends and order lots of appetizers!

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Exploring the Caribbean Side of Costa Rica

15 December 20148 February 2025

The view of the Arenal Volcano could be seen from miles away as we approached central Costa Rica.  The most beautiful blue background accented the green and grey contrast as thin clouds hovered over the peak.  Drawing thousands of visitors to central Costa Rica each year,  We had time to explore the volcano one last time before departing for the Gulf Coast where we would reach Puerto Limon.  It would be nearly a 7 hour drive to the coast with a stop in Poas.

We could not have had a more relaxing drive with just a few wispy clouds moving through to provide some relief from the hot, burning sun.  The trek was absolutely stunning with its scenic views, local gatherings and surprises behind each turn.  We shared the drive and I was happy when I could turn the car over, relieving my knuckles from holding so tightly to the steering wheel.  I quickly learned that the Costa Ricans drive somewhat aggressively, and the roads are a little unstable along the cliffs.

Reaching nearly 9,000 feet, the Poas Volcano is another one of the most visited attractions in Costa Rica.  This protected area in the Central Valley region is Costa Rica’s amazing geothermal feature with a milky blue sulfuric lake at its center.  Smoke and steam rise up through the cracks and crevices created in the hot rock.  Recorded as the largest active crater in the world, the hot water geyser shoots up over 820 feet high, but at that height is not dangerous to visitors.  We hiked up to the crater overlook trail which only takes about 10 minutes each way, measuring .3 miles for spectacular views.

I could have stayed here, mesmerized by its beauty, staring out over the volcano, but we had plans to reach the Caribbean side before nightfall.  We took in the amazing view and returned back to hiking the overlook trail leading to the parking lot.

Update:  Poas Volcano erupted on October 1, 2019 and the park is temporarily closed.

It took us nearly 8 hours to reach Puerto Viejo, but the ride was incredible with scenic views of farmland and tropical trees.  When we arrived on the coast, we were elated to find our hotel and unpack the car to explore the east coast for a couple days.

The next morning we sprinted down to the beach to find a great place to catch some waves and rays.  The weather was hot enough to take the cold edge off of the water, so we spent hours surfing the Salsa Brava.  We found hammocks to take some time to snack on the local food, especially the fruit and my favorite, ceviche.  With our suntans and sun-baked cheeks, we returned back to our room, showered and prepared for dinner and a night on the town.

Our hotel was close to the beach so we didn’t have far to drive.  I was ready before everyone else, so I took a seat outside of our room to enjoy the palm trees, beautiful bay  iguanas and a gentle breeze.  I enjoyed the few minutes to myself just taking in the scenery and wondering what lay ahead for dinner and drinks.  I was hoping we could stop by some of the shops as well to find a new bathing suit or cover up and another supply of Sex Wax for our boards.

We all agreed that we wanted to find a beachy restaurant where we could hear the waves and look out onto the water.  We could not get enough of the local ceviche and found an eatery that checked all of the boxes, Restaurante Tamara.  When it’s a place that the locals eat, it’s sure to be amazing.

A couple of drinks in and Edwin the owner introduced himself to us.  He was extremely hospitable and gave us a few tips for local attractions and sites.  The fresh seafood was absolutely fabulous, the ceviche did not disappoint and the drinks continued to flow.

After dinner, we walked over to the Salsa Brava Beach Bar for more drinks and dancing.  The reggae vibe of Puerto Viejo is infamous and the laid-back music made for a relaxing evening.   We were so tired from spending the day at the beach, so we left earlier than usual for another sunny day at the beach tomorrow.

Have you visited Costa Rica?  What was your favorite place and do you have any recommendations for where to spend my next stay in this beautiful country?  I would love to hear from you if you would leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my journey through Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Arenal Volcano
Alajuela Province, Costa Rica

Poas Volcano
Alajuela Province, Costa Rica

Puerto Viejo Beach and the Salsa Brava wave

Where to Stay:

Casitas Las Flores
Casa Amma Road
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
41001, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 8343 7810
Website: http://www.casitaslasflores.com/

Where to Eat:

Restaurante Tamara
Avenida 71
Limon, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
70401, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 2750 0148

What to Eat: 

  • Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
  • Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
  • Ceviche is raw fish that has been “cooked” with citrus juices.
  • Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
  • Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
  • Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

Where to Drink:

Salsa Brava Beach Bar
100 MTS South Discoteca Stanfords
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
70002, Costa Rica

What to Drink:

  • Agua Dolce (sweet water): which is sweetened with cane sugar
  • Cerveza (Beer):  Imperial
  • Guaro:  sugar cane liquor which sneaks up on you.   Cacique is the most poular brand.

What to Read:

  • It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
  • Oro by Cizia Zyke
  • Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
  • Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
    Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
    The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

  • Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
  • Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
  • Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

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The Untouched Beauty of Honduras

19 March 201431 August 2024

Amazing Hills in Honduras

I can still remember the first time I visited Honduras, I was working for the cruise lines in the 1990s. I was amazed at the pure, untouched landscape with endless views of the country’s hills and valleys.  Honduras was not yet an established cruise ship stop and  became a popular port of call because of its uninhabited jungle with rare sightings of exotic birds and animals.

The Ocean Spirit, a live-aboard dive ship, was one of the few vessels that was permitted to anchor off of  The Bay Islands of Honduras.  Divers were drawn to our ship’s itinerary as it provided some of the best diving in the world.  Second only to The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, dive enthusiasts had the opportunity to explore the underwater reefs of Roatan.

Beach at Roatan

Although the majority of passengers were drawn to the ship because of its spectacular diving, the Ocean Spirit also provided shore excursions for non-diving passengers to go ashore.  While in Honduras, these tours included either a boat ride to Roatan Beach (which also included lunch), or a catamaran cruise to Guanaja with a cultural trip into town.  The group sizes were usually small, so ship’s officers were welcome to tag along when space was available.

Beach in Roatan

The boat ride to Roatan included refreshments, musical entertainment and a tour guide providing commentary and insight to the lives and culture of the Hondurans.  Within a few minutes we had arrived on the West End of the islet where miles of white sand and tropical palm trees welcomed both sunbathers and explorers.   After four hours, which included lunch, the tourists would board the boat and enjoy the scenery on our way back to the ship.  This was the most relaxing of the two tours and I enjoyed each opportunity I had to visit.

Guanaja, Honduras

The most popular tour in Honduras included the opportunity for passengers to explore the Bay Island of Guanaja, also known as Bonacca.  To reach the island, we took small passenger boats, hugging the Honduran coastline.  Thatched huts and concrete homes came into view as we sailed along the shore.  Little dinghies were tied up to the palm trees in preparation for an afternoon of fishing as wives hung their laundry on a clothesline outside of their home.   The overgrown terrain acted as a shield to protect the families from the wildlife that lived deep in the unexplored jungle.

Guanaja was one of the more inhabited of the Bay Islands back in the 90’s.  The central town of Bonacca was the most populated with about 10,000 residents.  As the catamaran docked at a small pier near the downtown, passengers were provided their first glimpse of this poor, developing Honduran fishing village.

Stepping off of the tour boat, it was not difficult to see why the locals refer to Bonacca as “Little Italy”.  The maze of channels, backstreets and alleys remind me of the canals of Venice.  There are no roads here, so moving from one place to the next requires a lot of walking.  The homes within the interior of town seem to be more upscale and roomy.  I enjoyed losing myself among the walkways, stopping to watch children fishing here along the bridges.

Poverty in Guanaja, Honduras

Moving inland into the town of Bonacca, I was saddened to see areas of poverty and ruin.  Refuse filled the waterways and the smell of garbage was overwhelming at times.  I learned later that day that the town was undergoing renovation.  The Hondurans were optimistic that these areas would be cleaned up over the next couple of years in an effort to attract more tourists.  The government was hoping that this focus would lead to more visitors which would in turn improve the economy and provide local jobs.   Little did I know that tourism would eventually play a large part in the future of Honduras and that major cruise lines would vie for position to include Honduras on their ship’s itineraries.

It was soon time for me to reach the pier where I would join the other passengers and we would enjoy another boat ride back to the Ocean Spirit.  The ship anchored overnight which meant that divers and crew could experience the nightlife before the ship’s departure the next morning.  This was always my favorite part of the day.

Playing Pool at Bayman Bay

After the shore excursions returned and dive masters unloaded their boats after a day of diving, we would all catch a ride over to The Bayman Bay Club on Guanaja.  It became our most popular spot to escape our cruise ship life and leave the passengers behind.  Even if it was just for an evening, this was our special place.  From here we could escape, discuss our dives and catch up with one another over a couple of games of pool.

I took great comfort each week visiting Roatan and Guanaja with its unbelievable scenery and laid back atmosphere.  To us, the islands were so profound that it was hard to believe that a place like this could actually exist in a world that had become so commercialized.  I remember how each of us felt so privileged to have had the opportunity to spend time in a place that felt as though we were the only ones who existed.  It truly was a magical place.

Honduras will always have a special place in my heart as it was here that I passed my certification to become a diving instructor.   Looking back, it is hard to believe that I had the chance to dive at one of the most amazing dive sites in the world and I look forward to an opportunity to return to experience it all over again.  And of course, the day would not be complete without a few dive stories over a game of pool at Bayman Bay Club.

Have you had the opportunity to visit a location that was once your best kept secret and you had hoped it would stay that way forever?  Have you visited there recently to find that things have changed yet you have fond memories of its earlier existence?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  I am so thankful that you read my post about cruise life in Honduras and look forward to hearing from you. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to Eat:

The food from Honduras is certainly a melting pot of flavors.   Influenced by the Indian culture of the Maya, Lenca and Garifuna, it is also inspired by African, Caribbean and Spanish cuisine.  Here are a few dishes one should try while visiting Honduras.

  • Black Bean Soup:  A traditional staple, black beans are cooked with tomatoes and such spices as coriander and paprika.  I love to top it off with sour cream and hot sauce.
  • Horchata:  A milk-based drink, this concoction includes rice, water, sugar, cinnamon and vanilla, which is absolutely delicious.
  • Licuados:  Another drink that comes from Honduras, this is a fruity dessert drink that is sweetened with honey and milk.
  • Machuca:  This spicy dish is made of mashed plantains and then smothered with a jalapeno and garlic paste.
  • Pastelitos de Carne:  Translated as a Meat Pie, pastry is stuffed with ground beef cooked in wine, with tomatoes, onions and raisins and cooked a golden brown.
  • Traditional Baleadas:  Similar to a soft taco, a tortilla is filled with beans, eggs or beef, avocado and copious amounts of cheese and usually served at breakfast or lunch.
  • Yojoa Fish:  Deep fried lake fish is marinated in cumin, paprika, cilantro paste and sugar, this dish is usually served with pickled onions (put on the fish) and lemon slices.

What to Read: 

  • Diving and Snorkeling Guide to Roatan & Honduras’ Bay Islands by Sharon Collins
  • Roatan Honduras Dive Map & Reef Creatures Guide Franko Maps Laminated Fish Card by Franko Maps Ltd.

Photo Guide to Honduras: 

  • Copan Ruins:  Stelae (stone monuments), Maya Citadel, Step Pyramids, Ruins
  • Pico Bonito National Park: landscapes and scenic views
  • Utila:  an island off of the mainland of Honduras best for photographing whale sharks and coral reefs
  • Jeannette Kawas National Park:  lagoons, coral reefs tropical forests, swamps, and wetlands
  • Roatan:  mountains, coral reefs
  • Lake Yojoa:  lush landscape, birds, restaurants, coffee plantations, waterfalls and mountains
  • Comayagua: Spanish colonial architecture,

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Freeport, Bahamas: A Welcome Change in Itinerary

5 March 201431 August 2024

Updated December 24, 2019

Hurricane Gilbert stunned the port towns of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen in 1988.  Due to the devastating damage, our ship’s itinerary quickly changed to include the Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport over the next couple of months.

Our first stop was Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island.  This port offered many of the same amenities as our Yucatan Peninsula ports, so it was a perfect choice.   It was such a great stop for visitors who were interested in watersports, sightseeing, shopping and dining.

Recent Hurricane Dorian, touching down in the Bahamas on August 24, 2019, was one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the Bahamas in over 65 years.  Information provided throughout this post may require updating due to the recent event, so check for updated information online.

+International Bazaar, Freeport, Bahamas

Since the early days of cruise vacations, the islands of the Bahamas have been a popular destination.  During my days of working with the cruise lines, Freeport was a shopper’s paradise and offered a variety of activities in addition to its international restaurants.

One of Freeport’s most popular shopping plazas was the International Bazaar consistently bustling with  tourists.  I was surprised to learn that today, the Bazaar has become a ghost town, with limited shopping and dining, quite different than my past experience.  Much of the change has been attributed to a history of hurricanes that have left the island in need of repair.  A new shopping area has been developed near downtown Freeport and is much more visitor-friendly.  For shoppers who are into haggling for a deal, check out the straw market to practice your bartering skills for souvenirs and merchandise.

UPDATE:  The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

+International Bazaar, India

The bazaar, in keeping with the international theme, was divided into sections based on countries of the world.   The architecture of each designated location included France, America, the Orient and Scandinavia.  It remains one of the oldest shopping regions on the island.

UPDATE:  The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

+Bavarian Beer Garden, Bahamas

In front of the International Bazaar was the Bavarian Beer Garden which provided a wide range of lunch and dinner items.   Continuing the tradition today, the menu highlights the following options:  Conch salad, crab salad, fried chicken, lobster and French fries.  With the best prices in the Bazaar, they also offer deals on tropical cocktails.  Outdoor seating is perfect for people watching and enjoying the sunshine.

UPDATE:  The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.+Bahamas 700 Islands, Freeport

Outside of the International Bazaar is a brightly colored directional sign that shows the distance from Freeport to popular worldwide destinations.   It was the first time I had ever seen anything like it, so I thought it clever to know how far I was from some of the other islands as well as major cities including, New York:  1015 miles, Bimini: 53 miles, Montreal:  1323 miles and San Salvador:  285 miles.

UPDATE:  The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

+Princess Casino, Bahamas

A nearby attraction to the International Bazaar and Straw Market was the Bahamas Princess Resort and Casino.  Built in the 1970’s the resort was later named the Bahamia Royal Oasis Resort.  Sitting on close to 1,000 acres, which included a hotel with pools and casino, the property eventually closed due to hurricane and tropical storm damage.

The most recent information regarding the property came from a 2010 news story which reported that there was a fire at the Princess Towers, which started on the 7th floor.

+Port Lucaya, Bahamas

Another shopping area is the Port Lucaya marketplace and seems today to be much more popular than the International Bazaar.   Activities from this port include scuba and snorkeling, boat tours and rentals, as well as an opportunity to swim with dolphins  There is a shopping mall nearby which includes a drugstore and offers duty free deals on perfume and watches.  If you are searching for cheaper prices for alcohol, your best bet is to head downtown.

UPDATE:  Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

+Shopping in the Bahamas

In the Port Lucaya shopping area, you can also find restaurants, but downtown is where you will find Bahamian local dishes and fast food restaurants such as Burger King and Pizza Hut.

UPDATE:  Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

+Port Lucaya Lighthouse, Bahamas

While in Port Lucaya, stop by to see the lighthouse.  It has since been painted with red and white stripes and visible from the shopping area.

The town of Freeport has not been without its own natural disasters over the years.  And although they have faced many challenges, they have worked together to make a huge comeback in the tourism industry.  It was just a matter of time.  I look forward to returning again soon to see how things have changed since my last visit to the beautiful islands of the Bahamas.

UPDATE:  Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

Have you visited a port that has been affected by tropical storms and hurricanes? Have you since had an opportunity to see its restoration?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below and wishing you many  Happy Travels!

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