Anguilla – May 13, 2006
The sparkling gem that is the island of Anguilla will turn out to be my favorite place in the Caribbean chain. Were it not for the unfortunate fact that it’s located dead center in hurricane alley, with results both predictable and dire, the island would be an ideal paradise. Its beaches line the western shore and are as pure and white and lovely as any beaches could ever be. Not surprisingly, the place is home to two 5-star resort hotels. It has no marina, just a large bay for anchoring, and so is not especially friendly to yachts. On the day we arrive, a sailing regatta is underway with colorful spinnakers adding visual drama to an already tantalizing place. It also adds a party that night with the prevalent reggae music prominent on the scene.
Next day, after cavorting about the beaches, I meet at lunch a fun group of tourists along with a wonderful local couple, he from Germany and she from Egypt. On the spur of the moment (suggesting an absence of deliberation, a personal flaw that has sometimes led to unpleasant consequences, though not this time), I organize a party on Indigo, with several local Rasta guys, four local ladies, and the lunch group, all hauled out to Indigo’s anchorage via tender. The music is cranked up, booze and snacks served and a fine time is had by all. Next evening we, the lunch group, meet for dinner at a favorite spot among the locals then head out to a beach bar and the reggae scene. No wonder this is my favorite island!!