So ... I admit my view of Grenada has changed dramatically

Grande Anse Beach - Grenadian regatta Feb. 2011

Some time ago, I wrote in this 'electronic journal' that I wasn't all that fond of the people of Grenada. At the time I mentioned that many seemed indifferent at best and rude at worst. I have been here for just over two months now, and I can tell you that there are many I have encountered since my last post who are down right delightful. I have realized - I think - that Grenada is not very unlike many of the Islands down here. And, for that matter, anywhere else in the developing world. There are those who see folks like me - I'm still a tourist no matter the tan that suggests I live here - as being as from wealthy _______ (you pick the country and fill in the blank), and therefore are (understandably) envious of those of us they may see as 'rich', and coming to take advantage of them in some way.  And, by the way, I've now been  to most Islands down here, so it's not as though I've not encountered this type of attitude/culture before .... So ... perhaps I should have given it a bit more time for me to acclimatize.

On to more positive commentary.

As I have been touring about, I have discovered a most beautiful Island that boasts incredible topography featuring arable valleys surrounded by lush rain forest; beautiful vistas overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and a (smallish) number of fantastic beaches. Note: There are 43 beaches on the Island. I've been to about 10 of them. So far, I'd say that a half dozen are great. The others not so much.

Tomorrow we travel to the second of the 3 main Islands comprising the country: Carriacou. With only 7,000 inhabitants, we expect to find a much slower pace (how slow can  you go?) and an economy built almost solely on fishing, agriculture and to a much lesser extent: tourism. (There are only a handful of B&B's and Inns on the Island.) We do hope however hope to swim with the turtles!

Once back, I'll put together a quick posting.

One last observation. We met good friends off of the Celebrity Millennium this past week. They were loving the trip and, it was apparent to me that others seemed to be enjoying St. Georges.

Finally, I'll be trying to include a slideshow of some of the better images I've made of the Island and it's people. I hope you  enjoy!

Some interesting news about Crystal that I came across on the web ...

Crystal Cruises Now Offering Reduced Mexican Riviera Fares

Crystal Cruises has debuted dramatic discounts for its 10-day Mexican Riviera cruise sailing round trip from Los Angeles. 

Departing March 31, the getaway offers new per person tiered rates at 30-45 percent less than previous fares:  $1995 for Deluxe Outside Staterooms with large windows, $2995 for Verandah Staterooms, and $5995 and $7995 for its butler-serviced Penthouses and Penthouse Suites, respectively – plus $500 “All Inclusive – As You Wish” shipboard spending credits.

Sailing round-trip aboard the award-winning Crystal Symphony from L.A., ports-of-call include San Diego; the villages of La Paz and Loreto; and renowned Mexican Riviera towns Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

As a “Mind, Body, and Spirit”-focused cruise, Crystal has lined up expert speakers and instructors in world affairs, medicine, tai chi, yoga, dance, and golf.  While ashore, guests can swim with dolphins, zipline through jungles, fly to Guadalajara, join a You Care, We Care voluntourism event, or learn to dance, or make, salsa.

In addition to Crystal’s renowned “Six-Star” service and many inclusive amenities, spending credits can be used for boutique excursions, spa services, gift shop purchases, exclusive Vintage Room dining experiences or any of Crystal’s fine wine and spirits.