When we first ported here, I was warned that there was nothing whatsoever to do – that I would set foot on shore, take one look around and head directly back to the ship to spend the rest of my day lazing by the pool. Which proves that even the best of people lack the blessing of looking beyond the surface of something.
It’s true that this far from a commercial port: no shopping centres, no traditional internet cafes, no jewelry stores in sight – but that doesn’t mean the place is boring. It’s truly a blessing to unplug once in a while; to sit with your back against a palm tree, the sea breeze ruffling your hair, and the sound of chimes being played in the local market hanging in the air around you.
I may be out for ten months, but I take my vacation in little four hour pieces where I can find it.
Of course, just as we’re examining them, the locals are examining us. In places like this I tend to find my naturally pale skin (and my inability to tan any further than the absolute palest of golds), a bit of a curse. Children especially will simply stand and stare at you with near frightening intensity (I swear, they don’t blink), until finally you find yourself forced to abandon your patch of grass and come back later in hopes that they’ve gotten bored and moved on.
As an aside, the other thing I find particularly appealing about this port is that I can explore everything that’s worth exploring and stay within eyeline of the ship. Ever since Rome, I’m afraid I’ve been a bit gun-shy of getting too far from my floating home.
Of course, the other unique thing is that I was finally able to drink out of a coconut (no, I didn’t put rum in it, and that’s one of those things that those of you who are “related” to me will understand)
All in all…not a bad day…for a port with nothing to do…