L'Olonnois: Bequia Island round trip

For the great pleasure of our English-speaking readers, Odd Erik and
Tone Anett tell about our stay on Bequia, 14.-16. January.

"Today we decided to go around the island by taxi. After a 5-minute
bumpy ride against the wind in the dingy we found our place at the dock
– our "friend Richard" from yesterday probably had a day off, as he did
not meet us to take care of the dingy (and get payed!) while we went
ashore.

A quick checkout at the tourist info returned with the answer:
approximately 80 Eastern Caribbean Dollars (approximately NOK 160 or EUR
20) per hour for a taxi. And in the middle of our discussion a driver,
Pikie, popped up - asking if we were interested in a ride? Off we went
with a big smile!

Pikie had many stories about buildings and places – and some strong
opinions on what was good for the country and not. He was born here and
his family has lived here for about 200 years (origin Scotland). Through
the last 40 years he has witnessed improvements: Previous speculation in
real estate by foreigners has now been effectively sanctioned and
conditions for poor people is getting better. He was looking forward to
see the new international airport at St.Vincent be finished (2013?) – as
tourism is the only way to make a living here, he said. He was satisfied
with their school system and the previous government, who has done a lot
to improve the conditions for poor people. Pikie knew most of the people
we met at the trip ("Yohh, Pikey!", "Pikey-hoh-a-yo-doin?!" and showed
us some fascinating scenery and nature at the north and south on Bequia
– much of we captured on photos :-) during the two hours it lasted.

Back in the city we could "inhale" the Caribbean rhythm sitting in the
1.st floor at Maria's restaurant, looking at the yachts bobbing in bay
and listening to the stray dogs barking - and the locals shouting
friendly(?) to each other. Their Planteur Punch and Club Sandwitch had
a pleasant taste!
This was a splendid way to make a day go by in the Carib's part of the
world!

This is our last edit of the L'Olonnois blog, and we want to say a big
Thank You to Marie and Thomas for a most enjoyable time these two weeks
onboard your ship in the Caribbean sea!

Tone Anett and Odd Erik"