Day Nine: Island Time!

Today's adventure is island hopping on an Island Time rented 24' Contender. Before heading over to Nanny's Cay, we load up the cooler with drinks and stop at Bobby's for water and ice.

Upon arrival, Katrin asks what our plans are, where we are going, and what we like to do best---snorkel, drink or eat. We advise her we're headed to Jost van Dyke and she proceeds to fully brief us on the various coves on Jost and Tortola. She lets us know where not to go, what docks to use, what side of the dock is best and tells us about the great food at Foxy's Taboo.

Island Time's boats are very well maintained and Katrin's briefings probably help keep the equipment in good condition. At the entry way to Island Time's office, there is a Tree of Shame, where damaged props have been hung. There is no way we want to add to the tree and we listen to Katrin very carefully.

In addition to the emergency equipment, VFH radio, ample storage, lines and bumpers, on the boat, there is a great stereo system as well. We hadn't brought any CDs, but Katrin found Mongoose Radio for us, which plays some great clasic tunes.

We left Nanny Cay and headed towards West End and ducked into Soper's Hole to take a few photographs. On the way in, we saw the Blue Moon headed around the point and we got to say "hello" and "thanks" to Captain Jim one more time. At first he didn't recognize us...guess everyone looks different on a boat versus land.

After a few photos and video clips, we headed over to Jost. White Bay, Great Harbour and Diamond Cay were extremely quiet. We docked at the Government Dock in Great Harbour and walked over to Foxy's. A bit early for lunch and only one other table occupied. We enjoy a drink (love Foxy's Punch!) and take a few photos and video clips. I also stop in Foxy's gift store and find a shirt for our daughter Heather.

Before we leave a catamaran from the Ritz Carlton comes in with a group, which heads over to Foxy's. As we depart, we compliment the crew aboard the cat on their vessel. They in return, compliment the Contender. We agree, the Contender is a pretty nice looking boat.

We head over to Diamond Cay, dock at the t-dock and grab a table at Foxy's Taboo. Again, only one other table occupied. Gary orders a pizza. I order the beet and gorgonzola salad....best salad I've ever had in the BVI!

After a few photos and video clips, we head back over to Tortola, cruise over to Shark Bay, Brewer's Bay, Cane Garden, Little Apple Bay, down Long Bay, over to Smuggler's, then around the point back towards Nanny Cay. Tortola has a big dark rain cloud over it and we can see the rain. Fortunately for us we haven't had to dodge any showers in the boat.

We return the boat around 4:30 p.m., fuel up replacing the $90 worth of gas we consumed, and then let Katrin know we were back. She checks out the boat and notes no damage and is happy it returns in the same condition it went out.

Before heading back to Brewer's Bay, we stop by Island Surf & Sail to see Scott and Debs. The shack is closed up and the sign says they are out on deliveries and will return at 2:30. It's 5:00. Guess they're on Island Time.

Back at Casa Allamanda we enjoy the pool even in the rain. We watch the clouds cover the mountain tops and watch clouds rise into the air from the valley's below. Very cool to watch.

Phone the US to check in with our bird and house sitter. Michelle tells us Abaco, Bacardi, Lola Marie, Tobago and Frick (the cat) are doing well, but know they are anxious for our return. Last trip to the BVI, when we returned, Tobago wouldn't talk for a few weeks. Wonder if we'll get the cold shoulder treatment this trip?

Tonight is clean the refrigerator out night (aka pot luck) in prep for our Wednesday departure. Tomorrow evening we'll dine out to salute a wonderful trip and our approaching 20th wedding anniversary (June 24).

All evening the rain continues, along with distant thunder. Our current stays on, but the opposite side of the bay is dark. Within a short time, lights begin to appear again. We laugh remarking we'd better eat fast before our current goes off, which it never does.

This week the weather has been influenced by a tropical wave. Today's radio reports state the system is passing over the British and American Virgins. Even with the wave, there is enough sun and dry periods to enjoy the water and beaches.

Tomorrow's agenda: return the ICE system, grab a few 'thank you' gifts in town, and hopefully grab some more sun before returning home on Wednesday.

Day ten's report will most likely be posted next week. This has been a great trip...very relaxing, very laid back, and full of laughter, old friends and new friends. Already looking forward to and planning the next adventure.

Day 8: Smuggler's, lobsters, Belmont stakes, and full moons

Today we make our trip pilgramage to Smuggler's Cove, the first BVI beach we fell in love with.

When we arrive, we find only six to eight other people on the beach. We head to the shaded area under the palms and sea grapes just to the right of the parking lot. The ladies are just beginning to set up their bar and gift shop area, two couples sunning, another in the water snorkeling.

Gary decides to walk the beach. When he returns, I'm surrounded by an extended family, who had traveled to the BVI for a wedding the night before. I can see the laughter in his eyes. The drill here is if you support the bar, the beach chairs are free. Within the first 10 minutes, four Bushwackers, five Pina Coladas, six Heinekens, and ample virgin portions guarrantee the bar this will be a banner day.

The highlight for the visiting kids and adults at Smuggler's was seeing a local walk from the water with a lobster in his hand. Some of the adults first thought it was a crab (put on your glasses). The highlight for us was watching newbie snorkelers gearing up before they were in the water and walking down the beach with fins on and legs going out to accommodate the gear, masks on but fogging up, and already using their snorkels for breathing. Keeping a straight face is very hard.

Finally around two o'clock (unbeknowst to us right before the heavens decide to open up) we decide to head back to Casa Allamanda. In honor of the Belmont Stakes, on the way back to the villa, we stop at Brewer's Bay new equestrian center to visit the petrified ponies. No, we didn't over indulge at Brewer's Bay. There are actually statuesque ponies in a fenced area of Brewer's Bay. Why are there ponies there. Have no idea, but see the photos.

We enjoy some pool time after the afternoon showers, then ready for the Trellis Bay Full Moon Party. We arrive early, take in the sights, and enjoy listening to the band. The barbeque brings back memories of our time in St. Vincent and the Grenadines---curried goat, stewed chicken, mahi mahi, island provisions (mixed vegetables), roast potatoes, and slaw. Jeremy and crew keep busy refilling the food trays and keeping cups filled.

Later, a spirited steel drum band entertains the crowd. Gary videotapes the action and all of a sudden announces the moon has gone away. Not a good sign. Within seconds, raindrops begin to fall, first lightly, then hard. We head for cover to protect the camera. By this time it's after 9 p.m. After 15 minutes, we decide to forgo the Mock Jumbies and fireballs and head back to Brewer's Bay. I won't go into detail, but driving in a heavy rain, at night, up and down the mountains isn't for the light hearted. Needless to say, both of us were happy when we arrived back at Casa Allamanda.

The rain continued during the night. If fell long and hard, mixed with thunder, something we'd never heard before in the BVI. Gary went out to the patio during one of the showers and remarked on how the wind was howling around the house. Had I been less tired, I would have joined him and added a blanket to the bed. Very cool, very nice. Looking forward to more island explorations via water in the morning. Night, night!

Day 7: Road work on weekends only; marooned at Brewer's Bay

A good rain shower around 5 a.m. followed by more brief showers and rainbows. Gary remarked he was getting tired of seeing rainbows.

Hang the audio of yesterday’s Talkin’ Tourism radio show on the blog while listening to the street paving crew coming down the street. Gary finally wanders out to see what’s up and learns that road construction is only done on weekends. The crew is paving the street along Casa Allamanda and promises they will be out of the way by 10 a.m.

Try to update my blog and upload photos, but current goes out again. Seems like a daily occurrence. No problem, we have many diversions to keep us occupied.

We booked the boat for Monday, knowing today’s weather forecast includes a 40% chance of showers. Sunday and Monday the rain probability decreases to 30%.

The rain never seems to last long, so we take a vote and decide to head over to Josiah’s today for some beach fun. Tomorrow we’ll hit Smuggler’s, followed by the full moon party at Trellis Bay in the evening.

Pack up the car for Josiah's Bay. Head up the driveway and uh, oh. Heavy equipment on the road to the left, road crew sleeping in the seat. Gary begins to maneuver the car to make the right turn instead of a left and a road crew walking down the hill tells us we can't go that way. Gary asks if they can move the roller so that we can pass to the left. Neither of the workers are 'authorized' to run the equipment, but they make a cell call. We wait 10-to-15 minutes and finally decide we're not going any place fast. Gary proceeds to back down the very steep incline...yes back down. Those of you who know the drive probably know how I felt at that very moment--mortified! Needless to say, I'm typing this blog so we survived; and so did the car--no scratches or mashed windshields.

Road equipment ran up and down Anderson Hill all day long. We took it in stride and enjoyed the pool and mountain breezes. We didn't try to venture out until around 6 p.m. Due to the new pavement, Gary left some rubber at the top of the driveway when we left. The road is very slippery and 4-wheel drive is probably going to be a requisite until the road cures a bit. Going down the hill towards Brewer's Bay, we encounter barricades. We're still blocked in, but manage to get around them. When we later return, the barricade's are gone. Tomorrow when we venture out, we'll know to take the Brewer's Bay roads instead of the Road Town / East End roads since the road crew only works on the weekend.

Jimmy Buffett needs to write new lyrics. Instead of 'no plane on Sunday,' new lyrics to read 'no road on Sunday.'

Day 6: Radio shows, drinking rum and emptying bottles of Red Stripe is hard work.

Up with the roosters! We grab a quick caffeine boost, toast and banana, then head off to Soper’s Hole to set up the ‘studio’ at the Jolly Roger for Talkin’ Tourism.

Lou is ready for us and Gary begins putting the tables and equipment together. Soon Candace and Malcolm show up; next Captain Jim of the Blue Moon; then Cheryl and her granddaughter Charlie, and during the first half of the show, we spot Captain Rick and Kim aboard the Sophisticated Lady arriving into Soper’s after a couple of nights at Jost van Dyke.

After a few telephone line hiccups, the show is rolling. Malcolm is a great co-host and he and Gary are enjoying the back and forth banter. Candace shoots a few photos for Malcolm’s “ego-book” and I gather some b-roll and photos for the radio show’s blog.

Gary and Malcolm manage to cover land-based and water-based adventures, history, folklore, pirate tales, accommodations, and more. Lou, Cheryl, Captain Rick and Captain Jim provide details on sailing, dining, accommodations, and places not to miss.

Here's the LINK to the radio show and the Talkin' Tourism blog.

After the show, we enjoy ‘refreshments’ and some good laughs. Malcolm really stirs up the pot with the staff at the Jolly Roger. Thank you Lou for your wonderful hospitality! Captain Jim, hope you had a nice nap.

Afterwards we head over to Island Time at Nanny Cay to explore renting a boat. We talk to a couple just returning their 26’ Contender, which they had for several days. They were adventurous and had hit all the hot spots, including Saba. At their recommendation, we reserve the 26-footer for Monday to do some water-based exploring on our own.

Malcolm had invited us to stop in on our way back over to Cane Garden Bay, so we take him up on the offer. What a beautiful view he and Candace have! And, a beautiful white deserted beach right in front of their villa. We enjoy some great conversation and a few Red Stripes (thanks Malcolm!) then take off for Bobby’s in Cane Garden Bay for some light provisions. We find everything we need and even things we don’t need, then head back to Casa Allamanda for pool time.

Tonight our dinner menu consists of a lemon roasted chicken, fresh broccoli, and garlic mashed potatoes, followed by the DVD Babble, which we’ll have to finish tomorrow….too sleepy to see the end. All this fresh air, rum, fun and laughter is hard work.

Day 5: The beach, cheeseburgers, no current and cool breezes!

Beach day! (Just for you Debbie!) Hit Brewer's Bay around 10 a.m. There were only two other people on the beach. Eventually a few more join the ‘crowd’ bringing the number on the beach to eight—that includes me and Gary. The water was clear, warm and refreshing. Some small bait fish close to shore and one snorkeler came ashore saying he'd spotted turtles close to the western rocky shore.

Gary walked the entire beach, while I relaxed with a good book. No showers this morning, nice cooling breezes coming over the mountains, and enough shade from the palms and sea grapes to keep us from turning red. My Blue Lizard bottle kept turning blue reminding me to lather up. Fortunately I did as later in the evening my legs showed more sun than I expected.

Eventually we wandered over to Nicole's for a cold drink and hopefully a cheeseburger in paradise. Nicholas was watching his favorite sports program, and served up cold drinks with a smile. Unfortunately, Gina "had someplace to go," so no food today...and it even wasn't a Monday, the typical day of no food. Once we finished our Coronas….two for Gary since he kept knocking his first over….I convinced Gary to travel over the mountain to Cane Garden Bay for a cheeseburger and lime daiquiri (yum) at Stanley's.

A few boats were in at CGB and a few soul's limin' in the water, but definitely no cruise boats in port. Just the way Cane Garden Bay should be. After finishing a great burger, ordered a second frozen lime concoction, but ‘no current,’ which means no blender. I tell the waitress to surprise me with some thing cold and rum based, she brings back a Lime-rita. Mmmmm, but very powerful. Siesta time (rum induced), so we head back to Casa Allamanda for relaxing around the pool.

Later, we freshen up and head over to Island Surf & Sail for Scott and Debs' Thursday Ladies Night for some windsurfing action. Ladies were inshore mastering their boards, while the guys ran races offshore. The wind coming off of the water is so cool that I know next time I’ll be packing a pair of long pants and a light jacket. Once the racers are back in, Debs fires up the grill for hot dogs. The beer and wine are flowing. A nice night for all.

Gary and I make a light dinner, read a bit, then find ourselves falling asleep on the couch. Early to bed, early to rise! Plus we have a radio show to produce tomorrow. A few rain showers during the night, cool breezes, and solitude!

Jolly Roger Web Cam

For those who are following this blog, tune into the Jolly Roger web cam tomorrow (Friday, June 5) from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. to view the Talkin' Tourism action: http://Jollycam.BACORP1.com:81/.

Links to audio of the show will be uploaded to this blog and http://talkintourism.blogspot.com/ in a day or two.

Day 4

Less action and more limin' today...

• Met with Lou at the Jolly Roger in the morning to discuss the radio show, determined phone numbers for the station to call in, and where the set would be.

• Did a sound check with the station from the villa at noon time. Perfect! They couldn't believe how clear we sounded. Per Greg from WPSL, "Sounds like you're right next door."

• Watched the rain showers come and go and relaxed around the pool. Surprisingly, even sitting on the covered deck, the sun finds me. Fortunately, I realized it before the damage was done. Blue Lizard to the rescue! The intermittent sun and clouds are keeping things cool. No need for air-conditioning at night and no need for paddle fans on the patio in the morning or evening.

• With all the rain and new construction around Brewer's Bay, run-off from the east and west sides of the bay very evident. Not good for the reef and water clarity.

• Early in the afternoon, prepare a pot of marinara sauce and put it on the stove to simmer for a few hours. Will later bake garlic bread and make a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

• Tasks for tomorrow: Pick up another bottle of rum and some limes; hit the beach; enjoy a cheeseburger and Pina Colada in paradise; and photograph fake horses lined in Brewer's Bay.

Mas(t) confusion at Nanny's Cay.

Successful sound check for Friday's Talkin' Tourism to be broadcasted LIVE from Tortola.

BVI-Day 3

What day is it? I keep forgetting. :)


Day three went by quickly but we were on the go in the morning. Here are the bullet points for the day:

• Ran to the Jolly Roger in the morning to try to connect with Lou on using the restaurant for the Friday live remote of Talkin' Tourism (http://talkintourism.blogspot.com/). Missed him but was told he'd be back around 4:30. Ran into Cheryl from Purple Pineapple who had just finished up having breakfast with two other TTOL members.

• From the Jolly Roger, headed over to Soper's to walk the docks and check out a couple of big yachts in the harbor.

• Before heading back to the villa, stopped at Nanny Cay to say 'hi' to Scott at Island Surf & Sail. Thanked him for setting us up with Rusty at BVI ICE for the mobile Internet service. Headed back Thursday evening for 'Ladies night out' so we can say hi to Debs.

• Enjoyed pool time at the villa until the afternoon showers began. The entire island is very green and I'm sure cisterns very full---a good thing.

• Made a second trip to Jolly Roger to talk with Lou. He wasn't there, so ordered drinks and used my iPhone to tap into the free WiFi to send him an e-mail. Within minutes, Lou was on the phone, spoke to Gary, and we made plans to meet Wednesday morning to discuss all the particulars. Meanwhile, met the owner of Gemini house, who is on island with friends...all hailing from Pittsburg. We discussed kayaking and I told her about Island Surf & Sail's inflatable 2-man kayak. Scott...I'll take my commission in adult libations on Thursday evening. :)

• Headed to Myetts to meet Malcolm, Captain Rick, Kim and Lucky for happy hour. From there we moved on to Quito's and with the bartenders help, convinced Kim to try her first Bushwacker. I think she'll be enjoying more of them in the future. Cane Garden Bay was quiet, but a few sail boats and sport fishing boats were in the harbor.

• Finally headed back to the villa to enjoy a grilled steak dinner and beautiful night time views of Brewer's Bay. Priceless!

Scott, Island Surf & Sail.

Mary had a little lamb....Jevon had a little goat. Every where that Jevon went, that goat was sure to go.

Daily rain showers resulting in a green island, lots of rainbows and filled cisterns.

BVI-Day 2 Adventures

1. Mix of rain and sun---no sunburn!
2. Picked up an ICE-BVI device that gave Casa Allamanda Wi-Fi high above Brewer's Bay. Thank you Rusty for meeting us at your Wickams Cay II office on Whit Monday (a national holiday) to ensure we had Internet access. Having Internet access from the villa a time saver and fully satifies every need we need in a holiday destination.
3. Disappointment of the day---check out girl at Riteway didn't know what the holiday was on Monday...she stated "I'm not from here." Gentleman behind us in the check out lane explained the holiday. Thank you.
4. Exchanged car at Jerry's. No more scraping of vehicle's under-carriage when entering villa's driveway. Thank you Jerry!
5. Good news: Lots of newly paved roads. Bad news: slippery roads. Learned must engage 4-wheel drive when it rains. Slipped backwards on the switchback just below Banakeet. Didn't freak but two cars behind us and two cars coming down the hill stopped and gave us space to recover. I think the strong rum drink I packed for the drive kept me from freaking out. Not sure how Gary remained so calm and collect.
6. Heard Gomez, the skimming bat who drinks from the pool, visit but couldn't see him due to electricity going out. Thank you Freddy and Susan for putting two flashlights and candles in the kitchen to help when there is 'no current.' Cooked burgers by candlelight. By the time dinner was on the table, current was back on. Dinner very streamlined but perfect.
7. Provisioned at both Riteway and Bobby's. In my humble opinion, Bobby's wins. Great cheese, meat, fresh produce, and wine selections.
8. Taught Gary how to make a movie on Picassa and set up a Google blog. Used the laptop (on battery) to entertain us when power went out. Lots of fun.

P.S...tried to upload June 2 photos, but Blogger software being picky and didn't want to upload. Will try to upload in the a.m.

BVI June 2009 - Day One Highlights

The launch of this BVI trip was smooth and easy! Highlights below:

• Travel from Stuart to Fort Lauderdale via I-95 quick and accident-free.


• Found parking location opposite elevator, down three floors, walked right to Spirit check-in counter.


• Check-in line, one-deep; wait time 5 minutes!


• Security line, two in front of us; clearance time less than 5 minutes.


• Aircraft on-time, big front seats. Magic!


• All luggage arrives (unlike June 2008 trip), Island Magic there to greet and transport us to ferry landing.


• While waiting for ferry to West End, enjoy our first libation while watching sea planes land and take off (slide show attached).


• Ferry on time, transport to West End non-eventful, Customs & Immigration line took less than 5 minutes. Wow!


• Jerry from Jerry's Car Rental there to greet us outside the ferry terminal. Takes us to pick up our wheels for our 10-day adventure. Gary remarks when he sees the vehicle that he's concerned it might be too big to make Casa Allamanda's drive-way. Jerry has an alternative car with a malfunctioning window he offers, but we decide to give the 4-wheel Suzuki XRS7 a try.


• Head over to Elms in Cane Garden Bay to meet Manpot, Candace, Captain Rick, Kim and other TTOL'ers at Elms for Sunday night barbeque. Good food, wine, conversation and laughs. More to come. Photos courtesy of Captain Rick.


• Leave Elms and stop at Bobby's to gather provisions for a late evening cocktail and breakfast in the morning. Bacon, eggs, coffee, tea, bread, rum, wine, diet coke, regular coke, beer, limes, butter, sugar, roll of paper towels, juice add up quickly----over $1oo. Not to worry--tomorrow's provisioning will make this look small. :)


• Travel over to Brewer's Bay to Casa Allamanda, which is situated 400 feet on Anderson Hill overlooking the bay. Uh, oh...bottom of car scrapes when we turn into the driveway. Gary was right; the car is too big. Oh, well. One more added chore in the morning---get a smaller car from Jerry's.


• Unpack provisions, grab the iPod, turn on the tunes, pour a rum and Coke, put on our suits and hit the pool. Heaven!!