Isla de Providencia & Santa Catalina are two small mountainous outcrops of land less than 8 square miles both situated 400 miles southwest of Jamaica and a quarter of the way on an imaginary line traced across the Caribbean from Punta Gorda, Nicaragua to Cartagena, Colombia. And a few hours after arriving, there I was, sitting behind this large, black, simpatico and unmet women who decided to take me on her small motorcycle to meet my friend Rolando in order to hand him some pictures I had taken the last time I was here. That type of kindness struck me since it is not very usual in many other places. Clearly on the maps says Col. (Colombia) after the name of the islands. How far is reality from the assumptions this abbreviation brings to people’s minds.

The hurricane season has hit few but strong blows on the islands. One of them came about in 1510 when the expedition of Diego de Nicuenza separated from Alonso de Ojeda (Colon´s Second Voyage) and was caught in a storm and its ships blown to a small island which Nicuenza named Santa Catalina, because it was common in those days to name sites after the Saint of the Day. To the other larger island just 200 meters across a shallow sea he gave the name Providencia in honor to the God that had just saved him.  The beautiful Lover’s Floating Bridge now links the two islands.

A name and a position on a map brought settlers. As the Spanish colonies in Central and South America grew more and more, slaves tried to escape from imprisonment and reached the islands.

So it was for 150 years when the buccaneers, having been given the Elizabethan wink to raze the Spanish galleons that traversed the region hefty with the New World richness, looked for a good place to establish their operations and cure their illnesses. They found these mountainous islands, ungoverned, hills ready to be used as searching periscopes over the Caribbean. Who else could find safety there but the famous Welsh pirate Morgan with also famous Paco, the parrot that sat on his shoulder? Legend says he buried the treasures stolen in Panama in 1671 in these islands.

After Morgan’s escape to Jamaica the Spanish took control of the islands but only by word of mouth since English men with their slaves from Jamaica and the Cayman Islands tried to establish cotton farming here but instead ended up raising cattle. By this time the population was as diverse as the vessels that traversed the Caribbean. Nevertheless, lovers were not interested in racial aspects and African, Anglo, Dutch (who were also around) and Latin mixed, populating the island with that distinct clear eyes-dark skin look of many persons in Providencia. After much give-and-take among governments and several entangled political moves that passed through England, Spain, colonial Guatemala, Chile (the son of Admiral Louis Aury, a corsair, claimed the islands for Chile), Nueva Granada (which included actual Colombia and Panama) and Nicaragua, Colombia would stay with the islands although, as so many islands nowadays, looking at a map it would never occur to anyone that they belong to this country.

Providencians feel Colombian but most of all they feel Providencian, a pride openly demonstrated when they start so many phrases with the words “Our island” talking to outsiders or when they speak a distorted English among them with distinct accents and Spanish words intermixed but very different to the ‘Spanglish’ spoken by Hispanic immigrants in the U.S. They even distill their own Providencia Old Bushi Rum (a little too strong for me I have to say) using spring water outbursting from the mountains. As kind and joyful as they are to other people, they don’t want their island becoming another San Andres, a larger island of the same archipelago with duty-free commerce all around and overpopulation problems. Residence in the island is controlled by a government agency called OCCRE and for outsiders is very difficult to get permanent resident status as more and more tourists that visit Providencia want to stay and share the secret. As I casually heard a woman saying to another: “that seems to happen to everybody that comes to the island. They come for eight days, fall in love with it and then don’t want to leave”.

I remember one night in Providencia as one of the most pleasing I ever had in my life. I was staying at one of the two cabins that a middle-aged fisherman named Van Britton had on Black Bay. That night the waves crashed against the lower wall of the cabin and through a glassless window I could see myriad stars while I slowly fell asleep. At morning a temperate breeze swayed my mosquito net in harmony with the ebb tide. That morning I felt I had found what peace and harmony are about.

There are no big hotels in Providencia, instead there has been an initiative toward having the natives install small cabins in synchrony with the colorful wooden architecture of the islands. The ‘native dwellings’ program surely established the islands as the place for a tourism more willing for nature’s calm rhythms but not entirely disregarding human conveniences or night life for that matter: it is a pleasure to go dancing reggae on one of the open-air bars just by the sea as I did one night with some friends. We arrived a little early by Providencian standards, so we just waited there talking, drinking beer and enjoying the warm night air. By midnight the dance floor was filled with people moving softly to Lucky Dube’s songs.  A longhaired Rasta told me: “this is great, everybody is groovying now” giving me a big smile. I couldn’t have said it better.

The next day I snorkeled from Black Bay to South West Beach passing in front of small beaches with cerulean bays in whose depths hid octopuses, eels, sea snakes and all kinds of coral fish luminous under the sun. I lingered in the water while some horses, one of the foreign contributions to the islands, were readied for a race on the distant beach. It was another Saturday for the Providencia derby and kids around twelve years old jockeyed horses along the shore, riding without saddles and hoping for a moment of glory, the horses’ owners expecting big dividends.  If it’s not horses it’s sail boats or dominoes. “People just love to bet even if they have no money” a young woman named Luz Marina Livingston told me.  But more than that they love the sea. These people are fishermen, sailors and even the most office-secluded person has to take a glimpse at the Caribbean waters daily. They depend on the sea for food in many ways: the staples are fish, sea snail, lobster, and the black land crabs that have to reproduce in the sea but most of the supplies also come by sea on twice-a-week (when lucky) ships from the continent: gasoline, potatoes, rice, flour, drinking water, etc.  If a ship breaks as it happened when I was there, everybody tries to move around the least possible. There are two occasions when everybody stays at their home in Providencia, everyone coincided: when the ship with the gasoline for the hundreds of motorcycles doesn’t come and when it rains.  So from late April to July during the rain season the other ubiquitous inhabitants of the islands come out and take control.

The phenomenon of thousands of crabs that live in the mountains, following their ancestral instincts, coming down the hills to the coast where they reproduce is a truly remarkable natural event. I had specially come at this time of year to witness the march. Confusion, however, was what I found. If somebody told me the crabs had already come down this year just a week before my arrival, a few hours later another person, with the same ‘I know for sure’ look on his face said that they were still to come. 12 days went by and I had to resign myself to watch the crabs eating decaying matter at night. There are many sites where this same reproduction spree takes place. In Christmas Island on the Indian Ocean 120 million crabs (a different species) do the same process and though such numbers are not reported in Providencia, the pictures I had seen showed black crabs covering the only paved road in the island which could be closed at this time of year at Crab Peak Hour Traffic.

After a heavy nocturnal storm I rose early one clear morning day and headed for shore where I found tiny little spiders moving in the pockets of rain. What I took for spiders were actually newly transformed land crabs heading to the mountains. There weren’t a lot of them but it was wonderful to see a life cycle completion, how endurance had worked for these little crabs after being dropped as eggs in the ocean without any other maternal care.

I had yet to see the beginning of the cycle, and it occurred one night when I heard scratching noises on my room door. I knew burglary wasn’t one of Providencia’s problems so I figured it could only be that the crabs had started their 200 meters migration to the shore. The females’ underbodies were full with eggs that looked like Iranian caviar ready to be spread on a cracker. As I moved through the wave of crabs they clapped their claws fiercely. I saw some entering the hotel’s kitchen, climbing walls, crossing the road painfully slowly, descending staircases and some even plummeted from high cliffs to fall unharmed on the rocky shore. The ones that made it to shore settled a little bit and then came forward to reach the gentle surf. At the first contact with the water the females raised their claws like in ecstasy and danced a trembling tropical ‘cumbia’ letting go of their eggs.

The day before departure I grabbed my hammock and decided to tackle The Peak, the tallest mountain of the island. I had never been on that part of the island and, as I would learn later, should have. I passed the last settlements where a few undernourished cows grazed over the dry grass. Then I followed the spring the owner of the hotel told me to look for. The spring was a trickle at this time of year and the tall trees cast a green tinge down over the rocks that formed every now and then small cascades where I sat massaging my back with the falling water. Apparently the mango trees had adapted very well to the environment and some were so plush with fruit that the rocks below were stamped with their explosions. A small shack appeared near the end of the forest assuring me I was in the right direction since this should be the cabin of a hermit Rasta man that makes a living with what he can reap from nature. A little farther up, the forest was one of short palm trees and scrubby vegetation; the ground was rocky which reminded me that this archipelago had risen through volcanic activity millions of years ago. On the top the metallic plaque that stated the 370 meters (1220-ft.) of altitude of The Peak welcomed me mirroring the setting sun.

 Since its eruption from the depths through all the years of political moves of possessive governments the island and Providencians have managed to keep the same peace and tranquility of always and that is their best kept secret.

Day in the Life: Providencia

Providencia

Slavery and sugar were two of the most valuable commodities that Jamaica had for 150 years. Spanish Town was the former capital of Jamaica.The Spanish named the town Santiago de la Vega and remained the capital until 1872 when the city of Kingston was named the capital. Queen Elizabeth 11 is the head of state, the Jamaican have given her the title of Queen of Jamaica. The Queen is represented in Jamaica by a Governor General who is nominated by the Prime Minister and the cabinet.

Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean. The major towns are Spanish Town, Negril, Ocho Rios, Kingston, and Montego Bay.

At the western tip of the island is Negril the most laid back resort with its 7 mile long beach. In the sixties the American flower children discovered Negril. The affluent landowners were worried about Negril becoming a Hippie Haven. This town is famous for is sunsets, cliff jumping water sports and Rastafarian culture.

Ocho Rios is well known for its nightlife, and has a laid back attitude. Ocho Rios is a popular tourist destination once a sleeply fishing village. Ocho Rios is also known as the home of Dunn s River Falls. It is a popular attraction that is visited by thousands of visitors each year. Dunn’s River Falls cascades down approximately 600 feet into the sea. Fed by springs located in the hills above, visitors take pleasure in climbing the falls as the water rushes around them.

The capital Kingston is the heart of the island and the largest English speaking city in the Caribbean. It has the seventh largest natural harbour in the world with the sea to the south and the St Andrew Mountain in the north.

Montego Bay is sheltered by Doctor s Cave Beach with clear turquoise waters and one of the most famous beaches on the island. It is best know for it duty free shopping and cruise line terminals at its Free Port.

Bob Marley the reggae musician was born here and was highly respected. The legend of Bob Marley comes alive as you walk through the village of Nine Miles, his birth and final resting place. Ian Fleming also lived in Jamaica.

The climate in Jamaica is tropical, with hot and humid weather, although higher inland regions have a more temperate climate. Some regions on the south coast, such as the Liguanea Plain and the Pedro Plains are relatively dry rain-shadow areas.

Your flight lands in Montego Bay and you are plunged into the hectic atmosphere of the airport crowded by the hordes of tourists: groups, couples and families. A jolly tune of a steel drum band welcomes you and so do hundreds of merchants trying to sell you almost everything: beer, cool drinks, newspapers, souvenirs. They greet you in the Jamaican manner: ‘Yah Mon’ (yeah man), ‘Y’allright?’ (are you all right?), ‘Whaapen’ (what’s happening?).

Finally you find the resort representative. ‘No worries mon,’ says he while helping you whith your luggage. Now brace yourself, the ride to your resort is about to star. The bus driver seems to have no regard to his, yours or pedestrians life and if you are motion sickness prone — you’d better get a paper bag ready. Oh no, he seems to be driving the wrong side of the street! ‘No worries mon’, it’s a tradition the Brits left here. By the way, this is a good reason not to rent a car in Jamaica.

Once you left the airport park you start noticing contrasts. The stunning Blue Mountains are surely a breathtaking view. But they are also a backdrop of the striking poverty reminding you that you are in a third world country. Shacks built of rusty metal and some unrecognizable materials occupy the sides of the road. They are homes for thousands of Jamaicans, and while you drive by you see some of them doing their daily business or simply sitting in the shade and relaxing.

You arrive to your resort which again is a striking contrast to what you have seen on your way there. Most Jamaican hotels are examples of luxury and comfort which are reflected in their far above average prices. You will find the resort staff friendly and welcoming. Let them care about your luggage and go to the nearby diner to enjoy some of the best food in Caribbean.

‘Nyam’ is Jamaican for ‘to eat’. Jamaicans are well known meat-eaters and their favorite dishes are jerk chicken and pulled pork. Patties are also delicious, filled with meat and vegetables, sometimes too hot and spicy. Be careful — most traditional dishes have bones in them, don’t be shy to pick them out of your mouth and place them on the side of your plate, everybody does so.

Be sure to try two famous brands of Jamaica: Blue Mountais Coffee and Red Stripe Beer. And don’t miss the awesome liquor they have there: Pimento Dram.

If you want to have some shopping fun, go to a local market, like the one in Ocho Rios. Enjoy the whirling atmosphere of a Jamaican marketplace where hundreds of merchants are desperately trying to sell you things you’d never need. Some will meet you before you get into their booth and take you inside constantly talking and piling one item on another into your face.

Jamaica’s gems are not just white beaches or glorious nature. Jamaican people, vibrant and friendly folk are the true treasure of the island. Good buy Jamaica, Jah Bless, Likkle more, I’ll be coming back soon!

Are you gearing up to plan your wedding? Although many couples opt for a traditional wedding back home, you may have another thought. You may want a picture perfect fairytale wedding in the Caribbean. If so, you want a destination wedding. Unfortunately, most couples mistakenly believe destination weddings are not only too costly, but too difficult to plan. Luckily, the entire process can be a lot easier and cheaper than you originally thought. How?

The first step is to decide on an area. The Caribbean includes many islands. Two popular choices include Jamaica and the Bahamas. If you are worried about costs, price compare. If you have a little bit of financial freedom, make your dreams come true. Opt for your first choice. Regardless, you will be presented with luxury hotels, tropical weather, and beautiful beaches!

Next, you must decide on a date. When doing so, give yourself time. Although you will have a Caribbean destination wedding, you still likely want a few close friends and family members to attend. Not only do they get to attend your wedding, but they get their own tropical vacation too! Still, it likely wasn’t a vacation they anticipated on taking; give them a reasonable amount of time to save money. Also, you and your guests need passports. Give these time to arrive too.

Once you have an ideal destination and date in mind, you will start to examine wedding venues. Your first look should be at all-inclusive resorts that offer free weddings. Yes, really free weddings! Many resorts provide guests with a free standard wedding, provided they meet a minimum stay requirement. The stay requirement varies depending on resorts, but it is reasonable, such as a 3-day or 5-day stay.

What else should you look for in a Caribbean resort when planning a destination wedding? The ability to have your wedding onsite. Not only that, but a choice of places. A large resort may give you the option to use their wedding chapel, a banquet room, garden, or their beach. You also want the ability to upgrade your free wedding package. Right away, Caribbean resorts claim you get a “standard wedding.” Look at the inclusions and you will be surprised, because it is actually a lot. Still, have the ability to include a tux rental, in-room hair and make-up, professional photography, and more.

Have your destination wedding double as a Caribbean honeymoon too. As previously stated, many all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean give you a free wedding with a minimum 3, 5, or 7-night stay. It will not take that long to plan your wedding, so meet the minimum required stay by combining your wedding and honeymoon. Choose a luxury all-inclusive resort, one with great onsite activities, a mixture of restaurants, and upgrade to a suite. You won’t feel as if you are shortchanging yourself. You still get the honeymoon of your dreams!

Contact the resort in question. To prevent scheduling conflicts, you may want to do this before officially booking your travel arrangements. Let them know you not only want to stay onsite, but have a wedding too. In most cases, you will be put into contact with a wedding planner, even when making use of a Caribbean resort’s free wedding. This wedding planner makes it easier to plan a destination wedding when you are located hundreds or thousands of miles away.

Order destination wedding invitations for your guests. You may also want to include information on area hotels and resorts. As previously stated, your destination wedding guests are unlikely to attend your wedding and leave. Many will use the opportunity to have a tropical vacation. For that reason, it may be a good idea to point them in the direction of other hotels and resorts. Your honeymoon and their Caribbean vacation may overlap. You love your mother, but do you want her sitting next to you at the pool on your honeymoon? Luckily, most free weddings include a couple of guest passes for those staying offsite. Additional passes should be available for sale too.

Bequia is a tiny Caribbean Island, tucked away in the Grenadines, almost unknown, especially compared to one of its illustrious closest neighbors Mustique, and it likes it that way.

Not so many years ago it wasn’t uncommon to literally walk into a glamorous rock star in a bar on Bequia, who could walk unrecognized around the bars of this very laid back island. This was, and still remains one of the major attractions of Bequia.

Bequia has less than six thousand residents and it has a feel to it, that is at once both magical and enduring, in the sense that you feel from the moment you arrive, that somehow this is a different Caribbean destination. You seem to have a sense that Bequia is somewhere you just know you will want to return to.

It’s different, it’s friendly, it’s unspoilt, and it’s probably the Caribbean you thought some of the better known islands would be!!

Bequia doesn’t have five star resorts and Spas, covering half a hillside, but what it does have is luxury hill top villas, air conditioned apartments, and absolutely first class small privately owned hotels. You will find friendly beachfront guesthouses, and don’t ever forget a privately owned yacht as your home for a vacation, because the Grenadines are famed for sailing. In other words, don’t come here if the trappings of twenty first century resorts are an essential part of your vacation.

Bequia isn’t for the type of people who need waiters at their beck and call, with London chefs and signature restaurants a necessary part of their cocooned vacation.

Bequia is for the old fashioned sort of family, who appreciate natural welcoming smiles backed by honesty. Bequia is for people who might describe themselves as travelers in the old fashioned sense of the word, as opposed to modern tourists.

All of this makes Bequia the perfect destination for everything from the best Caribbean Family Vacation to the real good old fashioned Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation, always providing you have old fashioned principles, and you appreciate what is genuine, and understand that not everyone has the good fortune to live and work where you do.

The people of Bequia respond to people who respond to them, and they can and will give you the honeymoon experience of a lifetime, or the best family experience you will ever have.

One of the great things about a vacation on Bequia is your choices of what to do. Here is the center of the best sailing in the Grenadines, and the harbour is full of chartered yachts, the bars and restaurants packed with sailors, creating a unique atmosphere of excitement. If you don’t sail, then you can dive in some of the most beautiful waters in the world.
Enjoy beautiful beach relaxation, explore on foot, by car, or by bike. Travel to the many other islands of the Grenadines and stay overnight to experience the differences between the islands.

You could on the other hand do absolutely nothing but enjoy the weather, the atmosphere, the beaches, and then in the evenings enjoy a breadth of cuisine that is truly astonishing from gourmet international to quite superb local food. You can go to a lively jump up to a steel band.

There really is something for everyone in the family on Bequia in this quiet corner of the Caribbean.

For more information go to http://www.caribbean-vacationspots.com/pages/Site-Map.html