2016-17 CCL Caribbean POC R1 by Onboard Media

FUN ASHORE 2016 –17 CARIBBEAN SAILING SEASON REGION 1

FUN ASHORE GETTING THERE WITH CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

FABULOUS FIVE The making-over of five in the fleet

KEEPING IT CLEAN Environmental efforts show care for the planet

ISLAND WEDDINGS What to do before ‘I do’

STAR SEARCHES Celebrity sighting in the tropics

PLEASE READ, ENJOY AND LEAVE IN STATEROOM AT CRUISE’S END

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2 016 -17 CARIBBE AN SAILING SE ASON

TIM McGRAW Country superstar joins Carnival LIVE

GUIDE TO PORTS

What to do, where to shop starting on page

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WELCOME ABOARD!

CONTENTS

A message from Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

2016–2017 Sailing Season

FUN TAKES / Keeping Up With Carnival Cruise Line

New ships on the horizon, new ways to explore the ports and more news from the fleet.

THE FABULOUS FIVE

A look at the making-over of five ships and their exciting new ways to sip, savor and shop. By Lena Katz

PRETO PEROLA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CARNIVAL SHOWS IT CARES

The cruise line is a dedicated steward of the environment, with technology and practices meant to help create a sustainable future. By Kelly Liszt

COVER STORY / Tim McGraw

The country superstar, who joins the 2017 Carnival LIVE lineup, looks back on his roots, his meteoric rise and how he stays on top. Plus, two legendary comics and a Grammy Award-winning band will also perform with the innovative concert series. By Lauren Comander

CARIBBEAN WEDDINGS

Here’s what to do before ‘I do.’ By Lena Katz

STAR SEARCHES

Celebrity sighting in the tropics.

A FUN DAY IN PORT

What to see, where to go, how to save — it’s all at your fingertips with the Fun Finds Map.

OBJECTS OF DESIRE

Jewelry and watches from the top names in design are sparkling keepsakes of the perfect cruise vacation.

GUIDE TO PORTS

History, culture and attractions in the ports of call, including the top shore excursions. 6

You are here (or will be soon).

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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1691 Michigan Avenue, Suite 600, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Tel: (305) 673-. 0400, Fax: (305) 674.9396 www.onboardmedia.com Robin Rosenbaum-Andras Senior Vice President, Marketing Carrie Julier Vice President and General Manager Editorial & Design Virginia C. Valls Publishing Director Kate McClare Managing Editor Beth Wood Senior Art Director Dayana Ramirez Art Director Christian Rosario Associate Art Director Raquel Figueroa Associate Art Director Jose Cuevas Graphic Designer Kat Williams Graphic Designer James Perdomo Production Coordinator Gail Abrams Ad Services Director Violeta Manco-Rojas Ad Services Manager Contributing Writers/Editors John Anderson, John Bigley, Christine Blank, Suzanne L. Carmel, Richard Carroll, Sara Churchville, Lauren Comander, Michael De Freitas, Michelle da Silva Richmond, Ginger Dingus, Joanna Hall, Jen Karetnick, Lena Katz, Marjorie Klein, Marty Leshner, Kelly Liszt, Linda Marx, JoAnn Milivojevic, Raymond Niedowski, Paris Permenter, Cele Seldon, Lynn Seldon, Jonathan Siskin, Iliana Soto, Jim Thompson, Richard Varr, Chelle Koster Walton, Deborah Williams, Deborah Wilson, Eleanor Wilson, Gerald Zarr. Advertising Sales Anna Riekstins Director of International Sales & Brand Marketing Rod Musum Executive Director of Sales Tyler Condon Sales Manager Stephanie Yonskie International Sales Coordinator Video/Film Production Todd Hedge Executive Producer Dan Shaw Director, Operations Kevin Maschke Senior Editor Juan Carlos Peña Director of Photography Enrico Caschetta Assistant Editor Alexa Caravia Videographer/Editor Port Shopping Revenue Robert Yonskie Manager of Cruise Revenue Vince Mikulus Regional Marketing Manager Andrew Vrzal Regional Marketing Manager Jimmy Marks Retail Program Manager Port Shopping Jennifer Szewczyk Director of Operations Rina Alvarado Operations Coordinator Anaias Gonzalez Operations Sales Coordinator Nadine Winter Customer Relations Manager

©2016 Onboard Media. No claim to original works of CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE or advertisers. Ships’ registry: PANAMA AND THE BAHAMAS All rights reserved. The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner. Printed in CANADA. All articles, descriptions and suggestions concerning activities, tourist attractions and other vacation opportunities described in this publication are merely expressions of opinions by contributing writers, do not constitute the opinions of Onboard Media Inc. or CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE, and under no circumstances constitute assurances or guarantees concerning the quality or safety of any such attraction or activity. Onboard Media Inc. and CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE specifically disclaim any liability for damages incurred due to the attendance or participation by readers of this publication in any such activity or attraction, and the attendance or participation in any such activity or attraction shall be made solely at the reader’s own risk. We and our content providers (“we”) have tried to make the information in this publication as accurate as possible, but it is provided “as is” and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. Cover image by: Mary Ellen Matthews/Corbis Outline

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Deep roots bloom forever.

Diamonds International | Na Hoku | R&I Patton St. John, USVI | Mati Jewelers Made in the USA | kabana.com

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MESSAGE

MT ID S E HE PR

Dear Valued Guest, On behalf of all of us at Carnival Cruise Line, I’d like to personally welcome you aboard and say thank you for allowing us the privilege of creating fun, unforgettable vacation experiences for you! Looking for innovative ways to enhance what we offer our guests has been a hallmark of the Carnival culture for 45 years. Our team takes great pride in continuously bringing new and fresh programs and features to life onboard each of the 25 ships in our fleet. And we are proud to showcase some of these exciting new experiences in this edition of Fun Ashore. As you can see from our cover photo, we continue to invest in world-class entertainment offerings such as the Carnival LIVE concert series, bringing new, exciting talent to the lineup every year. Tim McGraw, Jeff Foxworthy, Jay Leno and Little Big Town are among the acts joining the family in 2017. In addition to Carnival LIVE, we have added many new entertainment options across our entire fleet that will delight the whole family. Be sure to check out the Fun Times each day and listen for announcements from your cruise director so you can experience everything we have to offer! We also continue to make investments in our fleet. Carnival Magic, Carnival Valor and Carnival Inspiration, for example, have all undergone enhancements and are all featured in this issue. We are excited to share the details, which include new dining and bar venues, such as a new Guy Fieri restaurant and Cherry on Top! We think you’ll love them. Of course, we know that some of the best vacation memories can also be created ashore, which is why our shore excursion team has been hard at work to bring new, one-of-a-kind experiences to our ports of call, such as the new Cozumel Plus program. You can read all about these features and much more in the following pages. Once again, thank you for choosing Carnival, America’s Cruise Line, for your vacation! Have a great time and Bon voyage!

Christine Duffy President Carnival Cruise Line

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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™ and A Diamond is Forever™ are Trade Marks used under license from The De Beers Group of Companies. ™, © Forevermark Limited 2016. Forevermark™,

I T ’ S A LO N G J O U R N E Y TO B E CO M E T H E O N E . In our constant pursuit of absolute beauty, every Forevermark® diamond undergoes a journey of rigorous selection. This is why less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are worthy of the Forevermark® inscription our promise of beauty, rarity and responsible sourcing.

1-800-51-JEWEL • www.DiamondsInternational.com

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FUN TAKES: Keeping Up With Carnival Cruise Line

ON THE

HORIZON

Looking ahead to Carnival Horizon with a few of our favorite things about the Vista Class.

The new Carnival Vista is a hit, praised for technological achievements and for an impressive list of program innovations. But while the rest of us were thrilling at IMAX or chilling at the Havana Bar and Pool, the dedicated designers and builders at Carnival were working at the drawing board, coming up with a second Vista Class ship to be launched in March 2018. The subsequent ship in the next generation of fun is Carnival Horizon. She’ll offer many of the hugely popular indoor and outdoor dining, bar, entertainment and activity options available on Carnival Vista, with a few surprises of her own. While you wait for the new sibling, we thought we’d share just a few of the features that have made Carnival Vista such a winner: Excellent entertainment. It’s all kinds of fun: first-run movies at the first IMAX theater at sea; ultra-cool 3D shows at the Thrill Theater; and cool themed events like the South Beach-inspired Serenity Nights, the Rock-N-Glow 80s Deck Party and an Island Deck Party. When in port, you can even see top singers, musicians and comedians performing on the ship as part of the Carnival LIVE concert series. Tasty treats. There are lots of palate pleasers — nearly 30 different dining and bar venues — but the sweetest spot is Cherry on Top, the candy-and-more store. This is the biggest Cherry on Top in the Carnival fleet, stocking more than 120 kinds of bulk candy as well as a wide selection of party accessories. It’s also the first to have its own ice cream parlor, with lots of tempting ice cream flavors and luscious toppings. Dig in! Thrills and spills. We’d call it groundbreaking, but a lot of the action is way off the ground: 150 feet in the air, in the case of the SkyRide aerial attraction. A little lower but no less mind-blowing is the Kaleid-o-Slide, which sends you on a colorfully crazy ride down a twisting, turning slide.

FROM TOP: Zipping along SkyRide 150 feet in the air; the Kaleid-o-Slide, a new twist on cruising. 14

Room to shop. On Carnival Vista, The Fun Shops take up two decks of retail bliss, making room for an irresistible shopping experience. It starts with the glamorous main shopping venue, Effy Fine Jewelry, known for meticulously crafted and utterly original gemstone designs. Brands are meant to satisfy the most style-conscious shoppers; you’ll find top names like Tommy Bahama, Fossil, TAG Heuer, Ralph Lauren, Estée Lauder and Tom Ford. The stores were built for maximum visual impact, designed for the first time with boutique shops showcasing key merchandise categories and highlighting top assortments across major brands. The goal is to keep guests coming back again and again for new brands, new products and especially for new experiences. One thing hasn’t changed: The Fun Shops are still staffed by expert associates who love nothing more than helping guests find perfect gifts for loved ones or themselves.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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GOT KIDS? BUT WAIT — THERE’S MORE! Why stop with just one new ship? Carnival Horizon will be followed by a second and then a third new ship, debuting in 2020 and 2022, respectively. At 180,000 gross registered tons and about 5,200 passengers each, they’ll be the largest in the Carnival fleet. They will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the world’s cleanest-burning fossil fuel, under Carnival Corporation's exclusive “green cruising” design — an initiative that extends Carnival’s tradition of environmental stewardship. (See “Carnival Shows It Cares.”) “These ships signify an extraordinarily exciting future for Carnival Cruise Line and the opportunities that lie ahead to introduce a variety of magnificent new features and innovations to further enhance our outstanding guest experience,” says Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy.

The 5 best things for kids (and teens) on your cruise. It’s 3 p.m. Do you know where your kids are? If they’re aboard this cruise, they’re probably not with you. There’s just too much cool stuff for them to do everywhere else onboard, from getting wet and wild at the waterslides to getting their groove on at the teen club (in which case, check the spa for pre-party prep).

HERE ARE JUST FIVE OF THE BEST: 1. WaterWorks. Thrills and spills for all ages, from spritzing toys for tots to fast-moving slides for big kids. Perched on the top deck of select ships, it’s good clean fun. 2. SkyCourse. Best for older kids, this adventurous attraction is a ropes course 150 feet above sea level. After slipping into their safety harness, they‘ll traverse an adventurous aerial course that includes rope bridges and suspended beams. It’s offered on select ships. 3. Teen Worlds. The older sibs of Camp Ocean cruisers get special spaces, too, with Circle “C” for 12- to 14-year-olds and Club O2 for 15- to 17-year-olds. There’s so much to do: active sports and video games, dance parties and karaoke jam sessions and, on select ships, learning how to mix beats at Spin U, created with Carnival’s official music master, DJ Irie. 4. Seuss At Sea. On select ships, kids and their families get immersed in the whimsical wonders of Dr. Seuss. An exclusive program by Dr. Seuss Enterprises, it offers all the fun you’d expect, from the zany Seuss-a-Palooza parade to special character breakfasts featuring — what else? — green eggs and ham. 5. Build-A-Bear Workshop At Sea. Carnival has joined with one of the world’s most beloved toy makers to offer the first of its kind off land. Build-A-Bear Workshop At Sea provides children of all ages an opportunity to make their own cuddly bear that can be customized with a variety of outfits and accessories, from tutus and high-top sneakers to, appropriately enough, vacation wear like bathing suits and sunglasses. This is all so much fun — no wonder Carnival hosts 700,000 kids every year! Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Fun Takes | Keeping Up With Carnival Cruise Line

Exploring the beach at Tulum.

MORE TO

EXPLORE

There’s only one thing wrong with a visit to Cozumel. Eventually, you have to leave. Luckily, that time will come a lot later if you’re on a Cozumel Plus itinerary, which gives you hours more in one of the most diverse ports in the Caribbean. Hours more to spend snorkeling or diving. Hours more for exploring fascinating Mayan ruins or enchanting caves and caverns. Hours more to savor that incredible Mexican cuisine. You get up to eight hours in port on Cozumel Plus itineraries, which depart from six U.S. home ports on the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico. They’re offered on 17 ships sailing more than 750 four- to eight-day cruises. The longer time in por t ma kes Cozumel’s shore excursions more exciting than ever. You can spend the whole day experiencing ruins like Chichen Itza — one of the Seven Wonders of the World, dating back to A.D. 750 — or snorkeling the exquisite turquoise waters

of Xel-Há, a magnificent group of lagoons connected by a series of bridges. Explore the famed underground waterway known as the “secret river,” swim with whale sharks or discover why Cozumel is world-renowned for its fishing and diving. Relax on one of Cozumel’s pristine beaches or at a seaside café. No matter what Cozumel itinerary you sail on, your arrival begins at Puerta Maya, Carnival’s modern three-berth facility which offers easy access to the various tours. Save a little time for the shops, boutiques and restaurants there. “Cozumel is the Caribbean’s premier cruising region,” says Christine Duffy, president of Carnival, “and our Cozumel Plus itineraries provide our guests with the opportunity to create wonderful vacation memories.” To get more out of your next cruise to Cozumel, just look for the “Cozumel Plus” notation on itineraries listed at Carnival.com or call 1-800-CARNIVAL

Pyramid at the Maya ruins in Chichen Itza.

PHOTOS BY: (BEACH) IRINA KLYUCHNIKOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (PYRAMID) SUBBOTINA ANNA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Cozumel Plus itineraries give you more time in port.

JOURNEYS OF ENRICHMENT Cozumel Plus is one more way Carnival is helping guests make the most of their cruise experience. Here’s another: Carnival Journeys, a series of longer cruises which provide enriching experiences aboard and amazing destinations ashore, delivered with the flair of classic cruising. In this case it truly is about the journey as much as the destination, for you also get to enjoy special onboard experiences in dining, entertainment and enrichment. Opportunities are varied and depend on your itinerary. You might get to sample an onboard cooking demonstration, or watch performances of local music, dance and other folkloric shows. Some Journeys offer Throwback Sea Day, taking you back to 1987 and all the trimmings of 1980s cruising. Or you could enroll in the Academy of Fun for a lively education in celestial navigation, social media, photography or other topics. You could even get an inside view of shipboard life from the ship’s captain, cruise director, hotel director or other crew member. Start your Journey at carnival.com/journeys.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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T H E PA N D O R A S T O R E AT ARUBA Paseo Herencia Palm Beach Noord, Aruba 297.586.5625 ST. THOMAS 31 Main Street St. Thomas VI, 00802 340.774.3672

ARUBA L.G. Smith Blvd 15 Oranjestad, Aruba 297.587.7060

ST. MAARTEN 12-2 Front Street Philipsburg, St. Maarten 1.721.542.1109

ST. THOMAS Havensight Mall • Bldg. 2 Suite B St. Thomas VI, 00802 340.776.8550

ST. MAARTEN 5 Harbour Point Village Philipsburg, St. Maarten 1.721.542.9364

MIAMI INTERNATIONAL MALL 1455 NW 107th Ave Doral, FL, USA, 33172 305.471.4713

BAHAMAS 329 Bay Street Nassau, Bahamas 242.698.0539

BRICKELL CITY CENTRE 700 Brickell Ave Miami, FL 33131 305.450.0000

CURACAO Heerenstraat 4B, Punda Willemstaad, Curacao 5999.465.4774 THE MALL OF SAN JUAN 1000 San Juan Blvd. Puerto Rico, 00924 787.302.0404

Find us on Facebook

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Fun Takes | Keeping Up With Carnival Cruise Line

DIAMONDS ARE FOR EVERY

Day

Fun ways to rock your daytime style.

That old rule against wearing diamonds before evening is as obsolete as the one against wearing white before Memorial Day. (But you still can’t wear your tiara to the office. Sorry.)

If you want to add some sparkle to your day, we have a couple of ideas: The Right-hand Ring. Why wait for some guy to put a ring on it? Or limit yourself to one diamond ring? The right-hand ring is for anyone who can’t get enough of those brilliant flashes of dancing light. This rule is for all the single ladies (and married and engaged ones too): “Left hand for We, right hand for Me.”

Need some more inspiration? Visit The Fun Shops onboard and speak with one of the Fine Jewelry associates. They love helping you conjure up dreamy new ways to wear diamonds.

AVEMARIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Diamond Studs. Hardly new, but their total practicality is. They can be worn at any age, in any situation: a 2-yearold toddler, a 97-year-old grandmother, and anyone at any age in between. You can wear them to work, shopping, to the PTA meeting, relaxing at home, swimming — and, of course, to a formal event. You literally never need to take them off. This is one purchase that gives you so much for your money, why not spend a little more and get the pair you really want? No matter the occasion, diamond studs fit beautifully.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Fun Takes | Keeping Up With Carnival Cruise Line

CRUISE

CONNECTION

You take a vacation to disconnect from the workaday world, but not from your world — your family, your friends, your cat video sources. You don’t have to cut the links you like when you’re at sea, thanks to Carnival’s enhanced Internet packages. The packages give you dramatically increased bandwidth and speed, and you can choose from a variety of packages: from unlimited Web access for using a wide range of applications and checking email, sports scores and weather; to a premium package that lets you use video calling sites like Skype. You’ll never miss a moment with your social network, now that you have unlimited access to Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, Pinterest and other popular social media sites. You can also stay up to date with what’s happening on the ship, with the Carnival HUB mobile app. Available for download at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, Carnival HUB gives you a convenient, at-a-glance view of the ship’s many facilities and features, along with updates on events and happenings taking place on your cruise. The app is free; for a nominal fee you can add a mobile chat feature. It includes dayby-day schedules of hundreds of onboard events, information on food and beverage venues, searchable deck plans, itinerary details, your Sail & Sign account balance and more. “Fast, affordable and reliable social media channels and the Internet have become essential on today’s cruise ships,” says Gabriela Gonzalez, vice president of guest technology. “We have thoughtfully approached this area to ensure we are providing options that guests sailing throughout our fleet find truly valuable and reliable.”

PHOTO BY: MICHAELJUNG/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Enhanced Internet packages make it easy to stay in touch.

Download your free Carnival HUB at the Apple or Google Play app store.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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C AV I A R C O L L E C T I O N S

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M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

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RUMS, RUM CAKE & GOURMET TREATS

Proudly Baked in Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Bahamas. We Ship Worldwide

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Available throughout the Caribbean. www.tortugarumcakes.com #tortugamoments

10/10/16 5:38 PM

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The Fabulous Five | Ship Makeovers

THE

FABULOUS FIVE

BELOW: Selections to savor at onboard dining venues (clockwise from top left): Entrée from Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse; sausages on grill at Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse; tacos from BlueIguana Cantina; sushi from JiJi Asian Kitchen.

A look at the making-over of five ships and their exciting new ways to sip, savor and shop

Key West inspirations. Craft cocktails with a hipster twist. Partnerships with Food Network icons. Nobody can dispute that when it comes to fabulous dining and top-notch beverage experiences, Carnival has always led the cruise industry. While Carnival Vista has gotten most of the limelight since its launch, the other ships in the fleet have received plenty of TLC. In fact, five ships — Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Magic, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Triumph and Carnival Valor — have received exciting Fun Ship 2.0 updates. From a Fantasy-class favorite to one of the relative youngsters in the Dream class, these ships are made over not just cosmetically, but also experientially. Here’s an overview of all that’s new and exciting onboard the fabulous five.

By Lena Katz

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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DINING: CASUAL, DIY AND DELICIOUS

Guy’s Burger Joint

Guy’s Burger Joint, a partnership with Carnival and Food Network star Guy Fieri, has been a massive success on every Carnival ship to receive it. The formula is simple but unbeatable: a selection of sizzling-fresh burgers and handcut fries made to order, with a condiment bar to load up your burger the way you like. All five of the featured ships welcomed Guy’s burgers onboard in their last major round of renovations. Carnival Magic, though . . . She’s making the other ships jealous, especially over the spanking-new addition of Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse. This first in fleet ’cue joint does slow-smoked meats and comfort food sides, offered with typical over-the-top Fieri sass. Less flashy but still very satisfying to the tummy is BlueIguana Cantina, another poolside eatery which serves Mexican-American burrito and taco standards with a salsa bar for cruisers to customize their selection. This venue is also an under-the-radar treasure for freshly made breakfasts with a bit of spice. All five featured ships received BlueIguana Cantina during Fun Ship 2.0 updates. As the middle sister in the young and shiny Dream class, mega-ship Carnival Magic has been well appointed with outlets and offerings since her debut, and the latest updates even beyond Guy’s are sure to make everyone drool. Expanding upon Carnival’s legendary 24-hour pizza concept, Pizzeria del Capitano is a 24-hour eatery serving hand-tossed crisp-crusted pizzas with the family-style Italian ambience of the popular Cucina del Capitano. Carnival Magic is one of only a few ships fleet-wide to have this concept.

Pizzeria del Capitano

Guy’s Pig & Anchor

And what are the others? Well, Carnival Vista, of course, is an easy guess. But the other ship with serious WOW factor on the dining front is the gloriously reimagined Carnival Sunshine. She’s enjoying a second youth after the most extensive stem-to-stern renovation ever seen in the cruise industry, with specialty restaurants that lead the Carnival fleet. She has Cucina del Capitano and the Pizzeria offshoot; she has Guy’s and BlueIguana; she also was the first to get alternative Pan-Asian eatery JiJi Asian Kitchen. Rounding out the dining offerings, the sleek Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse is where trendy design meets classic steakhouse taste. It’s a highlight of the cruise experience for a nominal per-person surcharge. “Our guests are loving the additional dining venues, evident by the one-thousand-plus burgers and five-hundred-plus tacos and burritos we serve daily,” says Cyrus Marfatia, vice president of food and beverage. “The Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse is truly smoking with thirteen-hundred-plus guests addicted to the mouth-watering barbecue on Carnival Magic on sea days. Watch out,” he promises. “More surprises to follow!” Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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The Fabulous Five | Ship Makeovers

BARS/LOUNGES: FROM CRAFT COCKTAILS TO SELF-SERVE SIPPERS No, you’re not seeing double. Three featured ships now boast two distinct RedFrog watering holes. Carnival Magic and Carnival Valor have been entertaining cruisers for years in the RedFrog Pub, while Carnival Sunshine got the biggest-ever pub in the fleet during its major makeover. And post-updates, all three ships have an additional RedFrog Rum Bar on the Lido pool deck. Carnival Triumph and Carnival Inspiration also received their own RedFrog Rum Bar — a first in this bar brand for each of them. Moreover, all five of the ships got a BlueIguana Tequila Bar, located exactly across the Lido deck from RedFrog Rum Bar. Cruisers can switch up their cocktail rounds — margaritas today, rumrunners tomorrow, and so on and so on and so on . . . Carnival Sunshine might just have the most intellectual day-drinking concept at sea: the Library Bar, which offers self-serve wine dispensers to improve your quiet afternoon of reading. Full bar service also is available. Another new addition to the five featured ships: Alchemy Bar, a popular contemporary cocktail concept where the menu is themed, tongue-in-cheek, after an old-fashioned apothecary’s stash of elixirs. The menu offers some straightforward classics like the French Kiss, and Caribbean twists on standards like the Island Old-Fashioned made with rum instead of scotch and “The Antioxidant” vodka martini with Belvedere Grapefruit. All the featured cocktails are made with top-shelf liquor. Customers can also make their own cocktail requests. Finally, sports fans should take a peek at the updated SKYBOX Sports Bar on Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Triumph and Carnival Valor. This venue offers video games to entertain fans even when there isn’t a big game to watch.

FROM TOP: Mixing it up at RedFrog Pub; game on at SKYBOX Sports Bar; smooth moves at Alchemy Bar.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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The Fabulous Five | Ship Makeovers

SHOPPING FUN

Ready to browse and buy? The elegantly glossy new aesthetic and temptingly expanded product lines in The Fun Shops of Carnival Magic, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Triumph and Carnival Valor elevate the shipboard retail experience. New developments include an enhanced jewelry section, an exciting new selection of luxury timepieces and dedicated trunk show space for featured brands. Adding to the fun factor: special trunk show events that take place two or three times per sailing, creating “pop-up shop” buzz within the already fizzy energy of the Fun Ships. “This newly enhanced shopping environment allows us to create true retail theater, whether we are unveiling an exciting new trunk show with lots of attention or creating a more intimate moment within a semi-private consultation area,” says William Butler, vice president of retail services.

PRECIOUS TIME

Watches have always been one of Carnival’s most popular gift selections, and there are more choices than ever in the expanded and enhanced timepieces boutique. Lending dazzle to the displays: the latest, greatest and sexiest new designs by longtime favorite brands including TAG Heuer, Invicta, Citizen and Fossil. Additionally, new designers have been added to the mix, including Nixon and TechnoMarine. Besides watches, Butler says, Carnival is shining a brighter spotlight on fine jewelry, fashion jewelry, beauty products and apparel. All five categories have been updated to reflect what the modern-day cruiser wants from a shipboard boutique.

SWEET SPOT

Three ships — Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Triumph and Carnival Valor — were treated to Cherry on Top, Carnival’s popular candy-and-more store. Life is truly sweet in this shop, where you’ll find bins of bulk candy, fanciful gifts and novelties, custom apparel and lots of other treats. If you’re sailing on one of these ships and crave a sugary mid-afternoon treat, or you’re buying a souvenir the grandkids will happily devour, this colorful store is sure to satisfy.

FROM TOP: Elegant surroundings for timepieces; Carnival-branded apparel and souvenirs; they all scream for ice cream at Cherry on Top. 30

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Carnival Shows It Cares | The Environment

CARNIVAL

SHOWS IT CARES The cruise line is a dedicated steward of the environment, with technology and practices meant to help create a sustainable future. By Kelly Liszt When it comes to choosing the right cruise, travelers have always considered things like choice of accommodations, onboard amenities, level of service and range of destinations. But with the rise of environmental consciousness, more guests are also factoring in how well a cruise line minimizes its carbon footprint. Carnival Cruise Line stands out in its measures to protect the planet. “We know it’s our duty to promote environmental responsibility toward a sustainable future,” says Rabih Aboudargham, environmental operations director for Carnival. “Our ultimate goal is to reduce our carbon footprint and reduce environmental and social impact.” The line’s newest ship, Carnival Vista, has a number of measures in place to do just that and is setting environmental standards that future ships will follow. Carnival Vista: A Shining Example One feature that guests will notice right away is long-life LED lighting in every stateroom, which saves replacement costs. A behind-the-scenes measure (or, rather, an underneath-the-waterline measure) is an innovative Azipod propulsion system. Located at the very bottom of the aft end of the vessel, twin 170-ton propellers rotate a full 360 degrees, optimizing maneuverability and increasing fuel efficiency. The ship also features different engine sizes, creating

more efficiency by optimizing the engine loading. An indirect cooling glycol system reduces the amount of refrigerant circulating throughout the vessel. Carnival worked with naval architects to optimize Carnival Vista’s hull design, reducing drag in the water. The ship also features an advanced wastewater treatment system plant, a first for the cruise line. In addition, the ship’s waste heat recovery system was fitted with a power-generating steam turbine, which helps recapture the exhaust heat of the engines. Carnival Vista boasts the most measures to reduce its carbon footprint, yet other ships in the fleet feature fuel-efficiency and waste-reduction measures. These include different engine sizes, chillers with glycol, non-ODS (non-Ozone-Depleting Substance) Freon and exhaust gas cleaning systems. Subsequent Carnival ships will feature more efficient hull designs, energy-efficient lighting and waste heat recovery systems. That will start with two new ships launching in 2020 and 2022. They will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the world’s cleanest-burning fossil fuel, under Carnival Corporation’s exclusive “green cruising” design. “These new ships are being designed for maximum energy efficiency and environmental friendliness,” says Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. It’s an innovative approach that is becoming the standard for Carnival.

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Carnival Shows It Cares | The Environment

BEYOND THE ENGINE ROOM

Carnival’s environmental stewardship approach includes use of shore power in select ports, as well as a donation program for used but serviceable items from its ships, such as mattresses, furniture, unused paint and building materials. Crews volunteer their time at beach cleanups and tree plantings. In addition, the cruise line provides training and education programs for shipboard and shoreside personnel, ongoing fleetwide efforts to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, and an extensive management plan for all waste generated aboard Carnival vessels. Carnival also engages guests in its shipboard recycling activities and encourages them to conserve water, towel and air-conditioning within their staterooms. It has also developed an education program for kids, where they can visit their ships to see firsthand how their environmental program works.

RECOGNITION FOR A JOB WELL DONE

TELLING THE WORLD

Doing more than what is required extends to Carnival’s transparency and reporting. Carnival Corporation, Carnival Cruise Line’s parent company, publishes an annual detailed sustainability report, including all data from Carnival ships as well as the processes and proactive approaches taken. “We are very transparent,” says Aboudargham. “Our stakeholders, whether they’re guests, employees or investors deserve to know what we do, what has worked, how we can do better and our commitment to constantly improve.”

TOP and CENTER: Carnival Vista under construction. RIGHT: A clean beach is what environmental stewardship is all about. 34

PHOTOS BY: (WELDER) WI6995/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BEACH) AVESUN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Carnival’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Carnival Vista has been awarded the ECO Class Notation (Environmental, Construction and Operations beyond statutory requirement) certification from Lloyd’s Register. “This certification demonstrates Carnival’s commitment to go above and beyond the expected,” says Aboudargham, “by recognizing the voluntary standards we adopted for environmental ship design, construction and operation.” In 2016, the cruise line was honored by the Port of Seattle with the inaugural Program Innovator Award, recognizing creativity in environmental practices, including innovations in fuel efficiency and waste reduction. In addition, Port of Seattle praised Carnival for partnering with the Nature Conservancy, developing groundbreaking exhaust gas cleaning technology and implementing an environmental program for shipboard employees. Carnival also received the 2016 Green Gateway Partners Award for exceeding regulatory requirements and helping support Port of Seattle’s mission to be the most energy-efficient port in North America. Aboudargham feels inspired to be acknowledged by one of the leaders in seaport environmental innovation: “Receiving this recognition is truly an honor.”

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Cover Story | Tim McGraw

e l b m u H and

Tim McGraw’s love of country music goes back to his childhood trips with his stepdad, a long-haul trucker.

PHOTO BY NINO MUÑOZ

d n i K

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e l b m u H and That’s not just a lyric for country music superstar Tim McGraw, one of the top acts on the 2017 Carnival LIVE roster. McGraw looks back on his roots, his meteoric rise and how he stays on top (hint: “I try not to get thrown off!”)

m d i n T Ki w By Lauren Comander

When Tim McGraw was a little boy, he’d hit the road in an 18-wheeler with his stepfather, a trucker who hauled cottonseed around Louisiana and Texas. They’d pass the hours by singing along to the tunes of country greats, the likes of Merle Haggard, Charlie Pride and George Jones. When they’d get to a truck stop, little Tim would find his favorites on the jukebox. He still remembers every time “Country Bumpkin” came on; it’s one of the first songs he knew all the words to as a kid. “My first memory of singing songs was country music,” McGraw recalls. “I remember being at the truck stops at four in the morning, getting ready to ride horses and round up stray cattle down in Louisiana with my stepdad, having breakfast and listening to all those old, great songs.” Now it’s Tim McGraw’s songs that the kids and parents sing so often they’ve memorized the words. He’s one of the best-selling country music artists of all time, a three-time Grammy Award winner who has sold more than 40 million records worldwide, with 41 singles hitting No. 1 and 11 albums debuting at No. 1. You can call it the golden touch. Or the platinum touch. Regardless, there’s no slowdown in sight for McGraw, a seemingly ageless heartthrob who turns heads not only with his powerful voice but also with his six-pack abs and buff biceps — all making for a memorable tour with Carnival LIVE in March 2017 in Nassau, The Bahamas.

a r G c

MODEST BEGINNINGS McGraw’s icon status is a long way from his humble

PHOTO BY NINO MUÑOZ

childhood in Louisiana where, back from the road, he spent much of his time outside amid cotton fields and the bayou, fishing and riding bikes. When he was 11 years old, he found a copy of his birth certificate and discovered his biological father was baseball legend Tug McGraw, but they didn’t grow close until years later. “We didn’t have a lot growing up, but most of our friends didn’t have a lot growing up either so we never felt like we were without,” McGraw says. “But I certainly appreciate what I’m able to do for my children. And in turn, you hope that they realize how fortunate they are — and that they take advantage of that to do something great for the world.” McGraw graduated as his high school’s salutatorian and dreamed of becoming a lawyer, inspired by Al Pacino in the movie …And Justice for All. But when he got to Northeast Louisiana University, he instead picked up a guitar and became a hard-partying fraternity bro. On the day his hero Keith Whitley died in 1989, McGraw quit college, sold his belongings and bought a one-way Greyhound bus ticket to Nashville. Five years and a lot of hard work and persistence later, his Not a Moment Too Soon became Billboard’s best-selling album of the year. The musical successes have been piling up ever since. After the elder McGraw passed away of brain cancer, the singer released “Live Like You Were Dying,” the lead single from the album of the same name. It spent seven weeks atop the Billboard country music charts and was later dubbed the biggest country song of the year.

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PHOTO BY DANNY CLINCH

Cover Story | Tim McGraw

“It’s a tightrope walk, a balancing of the very emotions that propel achievement.” — Tim McGraw, writing in his book, Humble and Kind.

HOMERUN ON THE HOMEFRONT Meantime, he’d found a different kind of success on the homefront, from a lasting love with his wife of 20 years, country star Faith Hill, to their three teenage daughters, who have impressed fans with their poise. He and Hill married in 1996, after he proposed to her in his trailer dressing room and found her answer — “Yes” — scribbled in lipstick on the mirror after the show. They’ve worked to keep their daughters, Gracie, Maggie and Audrey, out of the spotlight of their fame. “We just try to live our life normally and do things with our kids — go to high school football games, go to our kids’ functions, go out to dinner with our kids and be involved in their lives and the things that they’re doing,” McGraw says. “When it’s time to go to work, we put on the cowboy hat and the high heels and go to work…me with the cowboy hat, her with the high heels. Although occasionally we’ll switch it up!” They love to travel as a family, especially to The Bahamas. “I love the sand and salt water. Our whole family does — it’s just part of who we are,” he says. “Any time we can get in the ocean and go spearfishing, snorkeling and spend time on the beach and in the sun, we’re happy.” HUMBLE TRIUMPHS McGraw’s personal life intersected with his professional one when, inspired by his oldest daughter leaving for college, he recorded “Humble and Kind,” a poignant song offering advice for graduates that prompted him to reflect on his own values. “[Humility] is something that you work on,” he writes in the introduction to Humble and Kind, a keepsake book inspired by his song of the same name. “It’s a tightrope walk, a balancing of the very emotions that propel achievement: proud, but not boastful; good, but not self-righteous; confident, but not arrogant; grateful, but never entitled.” McGraw relies on his work ethic and laser-like focus to stay on top. 38

Or, put another way, “I try not to get thrown off!” He doesn’t have a secret to success, exactly. “You work hard and be prepared for a moment that you can stand up and do something,” he says. “When I’ve had the most success, focus is the thing that really works.” When McGraw resolved to focus on his health, he didn’t look back. He quit drinking the day he launched his Live Your Voice tour, adopting grueling customized CrossFit workouts and a meticulous Paleostyle diet. He credits his wife and three daughters for the motivation to give up partying, telling Men’s Health in 2014: “When your wife tells you it’s gone too far, that’s a big wake-up call.” A man of many (cowboy) hats, McGraw — dubbed country music’s first metrosexual by W magazine — has garnered rave reviews for roles in award-winning movies like Friday Night Lights and The Blind Side. His latest flick, The Shack, is a Christian drama. “It’s a very moving film,” he says. “I’m very proud of it. I like acting because it expands your artistry, and it sort of makes you see music differently in a good way.” ACTS OF KINDNESS Fans are seeing kindness in a new way, thanks to a movement McGraw inspired on StayHumbleandKind.com, where thousands of people write about everyday acts of kindness. For his part, McGraw has long been known for his work with military veterans, partnering since 2012 with Chase and Operation Homefront to provide 144 homes (as of this writing) for military families. “It doesn’t matter what your views are politically,” McGraw says. “We can all agree that the people who put their life on the line for us in an all-volunteer military deserve our praise, our congratulations, our support, our thank you’s — and they deserve our respect.” Spoken like a truly humble and kind country soul.

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Cover Story | Tim McGraw

CAR EER

highlights ST U DIO A LBUMS

1993 Tim McGraw 1994 Not a Moment Too Soon 1995 All I Want 1997 Everywhere 1999 Place in the Sun 2001 Set This Circus Down 2002 Tim McGraw and the Dancehall Doctors 2004 Live Like You Were Dying 2007 Let It Go 2009 Southern Voice 2012 Emotional Traffic 2013 Two Lanes of Freedom I know you got mountains to climb But always stay humble and kind When the dreams you’re dreamin’ come to you When the work you put in is realized Let yourself feel the pride But always stay humble and kind

— “Humble and Kind,” Tim McGraw

2014 Sundown Heaven Town 2015 Damn Country Music MOV IES

2004 Friday Night Lights 2006 Flicka – Feature role and executive producer of soundtrack album 2008 Four Christmases 2009 The Blind Side 2010 Country Strong 2016 The Shack

PHOTO BY NINO MUÑOZ

2015 Tomorrowland

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Shopping Made Easy

Find the FUN in Shopping. For only $25, this value package includes over $2,000 in deals from our guaranteed shops ashore. You’ll also find hundreds of dollars in free gifts — even diamond jewelry! Whether you’re looking for luxury items or souvenirs for family and friends, the Fun Finds Coupon Book brings the fun to shopping in our ports of call.

See your Shopping Expert to purchase your very own Fun Finds Coupon Book.

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Cover Story | Carnival LIVE

SHOWTIME AT SEA

Carnival LIVE offers big names, big laughs and big hits in 2017.

Country music great Tim McGraw is part of a brilliant galaxy of stars featured in the 2017 lineup of Carnival LIVE, the innovative and intimate concert series that brings the best in live music and comedy to cruise guests. Legendary comedians Jay Leno and Jeff Foxworthy will bring the funny aboard in 2017, while chart-topping country band Little Big Town returns with their Grammy Award-winning sound. Performances take place while the ship is in port and are staged in the main show lounges, which range in capacity from 900 to 1,300. The smaller onboard venues create “an incredibly intimate experience for the artists and fans alike,” says Carnival LIVE Director Bernie Dillon. “With a state-of-the-art sound system and sight lines that are second to none, our artists can literally make eye contact with everyone in attendance,” he says. “This creates an enormous energy level that

feeds back and forth between those in attendance and the artists. Intimacy is the one word that best describes Carnival Live.” Performances take place while the ships are in port. Leno, whose long tenure as host of NBC’s The Tonight Show helped put him in the Television Hall of Fame, performs in Cozumel in May 2017 on Carnival Vista and Carnival Victory. Foxworthy is the biggest-selling comedy recording artist in history, a TV and movie star best known for his “You might be a redneck if…” jokes. He performs in Nassau in June 2017 on Carnival Freedom and Carnival Ecstasy. Nassau also hosts Little Big Town, the Platinum-selling band that has earned nine Country Music Association awards. Returning for a second round of tour dates since touring with Carnival LIVE in 2015, the band takes the stage in May 2017 on Carnival Dream and Carnival Valor. Dillon loves to watch guests respond to the performers. “You can feel the buzz that starts from the arrival terminal right through the performance,” he says. “Our guests leave feeling that Carnival has provided something no other cruise line can. To see their favorite artists in a wonderful setting while they are on vacation with Carnival makes the entire experience the time of their lives. You can see it in all the faces and hear it in the comments and for me, it is tremendously gratifying.” For a full listing of all Carnival LIVE performances, visit www. carnival.com/CarnivalLIVE. For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

Tim McGraw

Jay Leno

Little Big Town

Jeff Foxworthy 42

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Jeff Foxworthy

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for Him

for Her

Men’s Fine Leathers

Gold • Blue Diamonds • Mexican Exotic Opals Tanzanite • Pearls • Tennis Bracelets • Men’s Rings • Watches Sapphire • Ruby • Emeralds & Diamond Jewelry

OLD SAN JUAN: 151 Fortaleza, San Juan, Puerto Rico • 787 723 8420 COZUMEL: Puerta Maya Pier & Downtown on Rafael E. Melgar Ave • 213 291 8164

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SO, YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT A CARIBBEAN CRUISE WEDDING?

Here’s what to do before ‘I do’ By Lena Katz A cruise wedding in a Caribbean destination is truly the best of two wedding experiences. You’re getting a pop-up wedding that’s also a vacation, with as many bells and whistles (or violins and veils) as you want. If you prize barefoot fun and photo ops over tradition and extended family obligations, a cruise-powered destination wedding could be ideal for you. Here’s how to plan the perfect wedding with Cupid’s (aka Carnival’s) helpers at host venues on-island. Trust the Experts This might go without saying, but don’t try to cut corners and book a cruise wedding without the line involved. “When we receive direct calls from couples interested in booking a destination wedding as a part of their cruise, the resort encourages them to book through Carnival. This way if there are any issues at port or changes to the cruise itinerary, Carnival coordinates,” says Lorena Leonard, romance director at the Bolongo Bay resort in St. Thomas. Booking a cruise wedding doesn’t mean all the anxiety and perfectionism around planning will disappear. It’s normal to stress the details. However, the coordinators at Carnival and on-island are professional romantics. They’ve vetted the vendors (florists, officiates, musicians) and will help arrange each detail with ultimate care. Bolongo Bay actually encourages brides and grooms to call and introduce themselves before setting sail, so that upon arrival, they know what friendly face will greet them. “A wedding is one of the most important days in a couple’s life. We prefer that the vendors who have proven their ability be the ones to help us orchestrate the experience,” says Jennifer Levering, catering manager at Westin Key Resort & Marina in Key West.

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The happy couple gets to actually enjoy paradise when the cruise line’s wedding experts plan the details.

Honey, I Do — But We Can’t Elope The wedding experts at Carnival and at its partner venues on the islands have arranged weddings in six months, six weeks, even six days in advance. But generally, more notice is better. You want to allow everyone plenty of time to get the details right. In order to get a Virgin Islands marriage license, for instance, the St. Thomas courthouse must have your completed application eight business days before you arrive. In The Bahamas, you and your intended need only apply in person 24 hours prior to the ceremony. “Not researching the legal requirements of the intended host country is the biggest mistake that would-be-weds make,” says Jean Anderson, marketing manager at Grand Lucayan, Grand Bahama Island. The workaround if you don’t want to deal with local paperwork is to get legally married at home and then have a celebratory ceremony during the trip. Getting to the Church — and Back — On Time Everyone has that one friend or cousin who’s prone to going AWOL during social events and causing panic in the group. One of the major benefits of a cruise wedding is that cruise lines are logistics experts. While bride and groom go collect the marriage license, cruise line vendors will systematically wrangle guests over to the ceremony venue, make sure gifts/attire are sorted and ensure everyone’s properly rehearsed. The host venue will arrange flowers, music, catering and the rest. After the celebration, the same logistics magicians will make it their priority to get every guest — even Cousin AWOL — safely back on the ship. Enjoy the Moment “Some couples will try to plan every moment of their big day, but we find that the attendees may have different likes and interests. With a wide variety of activities available, it’s best to keep everyone’s schedule open,” says Jean Anderson of Grand Lucayan. So, what’s possible in a cruise destination wedding? A private island ceremony. Brunch on the beach. A deep-sea fishing bachelor party. Bachelorette spa day at sea; 18k gold gifts for the mothers-in-law; champagne and strawberries for the bridesmaids. Basically, anything you could dream of, and much more. The bride and groom’s role is simply to enjoy it. To start planning your dream Caribbean wedding, contact Carnival at 800-933-4968 or weddings@carnival.com.

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THE BEST BUYS OF YOUR VACATION ARE RIGHT HERE ONBOARD!

LOOK FOR THE BEST BUYS SYMBOL IN

TAX & DUTY FREE

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RIGHT, FROM TOP: Eric Clapton, Sir Richard Branson, Cameron Diaz, Mariah Carey, Lenny Kravitz, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Gwyneth Paltrow.

STAR SEARCHES

CELEBRITY SIGHTING IN THE TROPICS Seeking famous faces? Here’s where to look. They’re prettier, richer and usually better dressed than most of us, but Hollywood stars share one trait with those in lesser galaxies. They, too, are irresistibly drawn to the romance and beauty of the Caribbean. They’re also drawn to the anonymity that faraway tropical lands afford them; it seems the more remote the island, the more celebrities you’ll find there. It’s not hard to spot the stars, and with the help of our Hollywood star chart you might just run into one of your favorite personalities. If you do, remember to play it cool — make a fuss and you could ruin it for the rest of us!

OPPOSITE, FROM TOP: Oprah Winfrey, Selma Hayek, Ryan Seacrest, Sofia Vergara, Nicki Minaj.

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PHOTOS BY: (ERIC CLAPTON) FEATUREFLASH PHOTO AGENCY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (RICHARD BRANSON) S_BUKLEY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (CAMERON DIAZ) HELGA ESTEB/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (MARIAH CAREY) TINSELTOWN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (LENNY KRAVITZ) HELGA ESTEB/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (RIHANNA) TINSELTOWN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (TAYLOR SWIFT) HELGA ESTEB/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (GWYNETH PALTROW) HELGA ESTEB/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (OPRAH WINFREY) DFREE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (SALMA HAYEK) DENIS MAKARENKO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (RYAN SEACREST) TINSELTOWN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (NICKI MINAJ) HELGA ESTEB/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (SOFIA VERGARA) DFREE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (JAMAICA) RUTH PETERKIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Star Searches | Celebrity Sighting

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ANTIGUA

The secluded beauty of Antigua romanced entertainment empress Oprah Winfrey and rock legend Eric Clapton to buy homes here. You might also see Virgin mega-entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson on its sister island, Barbuda, although he’s more likely to be hanging on his private Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands.

BAHAMAS: HARBOUR ISLAND, ELEUTHERA

Solitude also marks the spot on this sparsely populated outpost that draws actress Cameron Diaz, singer Mariah Carey and musician Lenny Kravitz.

BARBADOS

Generous portions of British Colonial days remain on Barbados, which has often lured actress Gwyneth Paltrow for quiet vacations. It’s no vacation for singer Rihanna, a native Barbadian who’s simply going home when she returns to this island paradise.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Grammy-laden superstar Taylor Swift was not only spotted in Virgin Gorda with beau-of-the-moment Harry Stiles in 2016, but she also thrilled her many fans by posing for photos with them. The B.V.I. was already well known to such stars as actresses Selma Hayek, Jaime King and Molly Sims.

MEXICO CABO SAN LUCAS/CANCUN

The Mexican Riviera has long appealed to Hollywood royalty since Liz (Taylor) and Dick (Burton) first appeared in Puerto Vallarta. These days, it’s a playground for reality star Kim Kardashian and celebrity maven Ryan Seacrest.

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Top pop star Nicki Minaj often goes home to Trinidad & Tobago, which also calls out to singers Shakira and Sting.

TURKS & CAICOS

If you’ve ever been there, you know why actress Sofia Vergara and actor Joe Manganiello chose this romantic island for their honeymoon in 2015. Actors Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner also married here, in Providenciales, although their happily ever after hit a few bumps.

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FUN DAY IN PORT

Bring your Fun Finds Map into port. Tuck it into your purse or pocket and put the port at your fingertips.

CAN BALCIOGLU/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The Fun Finds Map is available from your onboard Shopping Expert at any of their live events or scheduled desk hours. Check your Fun Times for more information.

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OBJECTS

DESIRE

Perfect your look with one of these little luxuries: a dramatic pendant, a sparkling ring, a shimmering bracelet or a top-quality timepiece. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a vacation memory of the best kind.

Le Vian Ocean Wave Gladiator ring

TAG Heuer Carrera Heuer 01 watch

Crown of Light Orchid ring

Kabana Alhambra Collection earrings

Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Grande

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OBJECTS OBJECTS

DESIRE DESIRE

Jewelry to rock your world: Diamonds top the must-have list, but they’re not the only way to attract a crowd. The looks that matter? Whatever matters to you.

Marahlago Surf necklace

Danyal Paraiba Orion’s Belt ring

Safi Kilima Kilehe Trillion Tanzanite bangle

TrueLove Diamonds Infinity bracelet

Forevermark Halo ring

Fendi Selleria watch

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OLD SAN JUAN: 151 Fortaleza, San Juan, Puerto Rico • 787 723 8420 COZUMEL: Puerta Maya Pier & Downtown on Rafael E. Melgar Ave • 213 291 8164

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CARLOS AMARILLO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

OF THE

See our guide to the distinctive creations that make the Caribbean so exceptional, in select ports.

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Guide to

PORTS Amber Cove Antigua Aruba Barbados Belize Bonaire Canada Charleston Cozumel Curaรงao Fort Lauderdale Freeport Galveston Grand Cayman Grand Turk Half Moon Cay Key West Mahogany Bay Montego Bay Nassau Ocho Rios Port Canaveral San Juan St. Kitts St. Lucia St. Maarten/St. Martin CARLOS AMARILLO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

St. Thomas

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Seattle

Los Angeles Catalina Island

San Diego

Ensenada

New Or Galveston

Hawaii

Cabo San Lucas

Mazatlรกn

MEXICO

GULF OF MEXICO

Progreso

Puerto Vallarta

Belize City CENTRAL AMERICA

BELIZE

GUATEMALA

PACIFIC OCEAN

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Canada

Charleston

Bermuda

Mobile Jacksonville

New Orleans

PORTS of Call

Port Canaveral

Tampa

FLORIDA Freeport Fort Lauderdale Miami THE BAHAMAS

Key West

Nassau

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Half Moon Cay

CUBA TURKS AND CAICOS

greso

Grand Turk

Cozumel

Amber Cove

Grand Cayman

Montego Bay

DOMINICAN St. Thomas San Juan HAITI REPUBLIC PUERTO RICO

Falmouth Ocho Rios JAMAICA

St. John St. Maarten/ St. Martin

St. Kitts

Antigua

Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatรกn

CARIBBEAN SEA HONDURAS

St. Lucia Barbados

Aruba Curaรงao COSTA RICA

Bonaire

Cartagena COLOMBIA

VENEZUELA

PANAMA SOUTH AMERICA Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Ports of call | Amber Cove

Colorful cottages welcome you to Amber Cove, a multi-faceted destination on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic.

AMBER COVE

This idyllic spot in the Dominican Republic offers all you could ask for in a Caribbean vacation: a little history (including pirate lore), a little culture (fine and folk art, delicious food) and a lot of fun with the many recreational opportunities. Does your idea of fun involve relaxing on a beach with a tropical drink in hand? Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of that, too.

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FUNTREKS

TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port

Here are just a few of the many tours you can experience during your visit. See your onboard shore-excursion specialist to book today. Please ask about age requirements, physical considerations, proper dress and other details.

Coco Caña Lounge

Coco Caña Lounge offers a unique gastronomic experience mixed with the warmth and the party soul of the local people. Come to enjoy the best Dominican cocktails while dancing with us!

Amber Cove Port, Maimon Bay; Buildings 18, 7 & 30 Instagram: @cococanaloungerd

El Cibao Coffee Shop

El Cibao is entirely dedicated to the ancient and noble drink of coffee. In a friendly environment you can: • Enjoy the taste of espresso, cappuccino, different cold coffee drinks, smoothies and desserts • Learn about the process of coffee manufacturing • Buy high-quality Dominican organic coffee, packaged in different sizes

Amber Cove Port Building 2/B, Maimon, Puerto Plata 829-974-5996 or 809-895-6376 lscordari@naturabellasrl.com Facebook: Cafeteria "Café el Cibao"

VIP Catamaran to Cayo Arena with Lunch

Enjoy a unique coral island in the Dominican Republic. Prepare to be served as royalty onboard a VIP catamaran equipped with bar, comfortable seating and restrooms. You’ll cruise to the amazing Ensenada beach and then to Cayo Arena for a guided snorkeling tour, swimming or just relaxing.

Deluxe Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

Relax on one of the island’s finest luxury catamarans during a fun-filled adventure on the high seas. Soak up the scenery on the way to Sosua for a guided snorkeling tour that brings you among Sosua’s living corals and a myriad of tropical fish in every color of the rainbow.

Outback Dominican Adventure with Lunch

Experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for over a century. You’ll see how coffee and chocolate are locally grown, harvested and processed, then meet a local family in their countryside home and visit a local school (subject to local school holidays). The last stop of the day is at a beautiful secluded beach.

Island Treasures

Dolphin Swim & Ocean World Day Pass

Next to the Amber Cove sign at the dock 829-344-4613

All Inclusive Coconut Cove Beach Break

Your one-stop shopping emporium, Island Treasures offers gifts for everyone on your list. It is locally owned and operated, with friendly service and great prices. Island Treasures carries over 2,000 items, from local arts and crafts, souvenirs, Caribbean décor, chimes and apparel to table and wall art and a wide variety of T-shirts. Stop by and say hi to Ana — hers is the friendliest store in town!

Quick Guide Famed for: Endless fun at pools and beaches; shopping and dining along the Malecón; swimming with dolphins, stingrays and even sharks at Ocean World.

You’ll interact with two playful dolphins on a 20-minute swim in deep water. After a brief orientation, you’ll get to hug, kiss, dance with and feed the dolphins. A dorsal pull by two dolphins, foot push and swimming with dolphins is sure to be the highlight of your visit to Amber Cove Puerto Plata.

Have it all when you visit our private Coconut Cove Beach. An open-air truck takes you on rugged outback roads for a peek into rural life. Then enjoy our white-sand oasis at your leisure. Experience the many water sports, take a short trek on local trails or just lounge on the beach with an island cocktail. The day includes a buffet-style lunch of sumptuous Dominican cuisine and locally grown fruits.

It’s a Fact: Fort San Felipe in nearby Puerto Plata is one of the oldest military colonial period fortresses in the region, dating back to 1577. Signature Souvenirs: Jewelry made from top-quality amber, found in great abundance here; art and handicrafts from local galleries and markets. Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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PHOTOS BY: (VIEW OF ENGLISH HARBOUR) ERIC BAKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Antigua

Boaters find many cozy spots to drop anchor.

ANTIGUA

Part of the two-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda, this locale is even more focused on the waters surrounding it than you might expect. The most zealous beachgoers and sailors now favor its scalloped shores, but they were once beloved by colonial navies and smugglers.

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FUNTREKS

TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS Here are just a few of the many tours you can experience during your visit. See your onboard shore-excursion specialist to book today. Please ask about age requirements, physical considerations, proper dress and other details.

Deluxe Lobster Lunch & Champagne Cruise

Enjoy a day of luxury and relaxation on the water aboard the catamaran Mystic. Guests dine on lobster and sip champagne as they sail beside the beautiful coastline of Antigua, taking in its white-sand beaches and boutique resorts. The day includes a stop at one of the beaches for sunbathing or swimming and more refreshments.

4x4 Island Safari & Beach Escape

PHOTOS BY: (VIEW OF ENGLISH HARBOUR) ERIC BAKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

This convoy of open-air, safari-rigged Land Rovers goes where ordinary bus tours can’t reach. The off-road expedition explores the breathtaking south coast, passing through quaint Bendal’s Village by the Body Pond to view rare tropical plants. The expedition continues through the rainforest along Fig Tree Drive and ends with a swim at the beach.

See Antigua by Sea

A five-star catamaran takes guests to secluded Green Island for an afternoon of sun and serenity. Calypso and reggae music serenade passengers on the trip to the island, where the crew serves lunch and offers an open bar. On the return trip, the catamaran sails across English Harbour to the famed Nelson’s Dockyard.

Beach Horseback Riding

Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride along land and beautiful beaches, and then ride to Antigua’s historic fort.

Canopy Tour & Challenge Course

Quick Guide Famed for: Beaches, sailing and rich maritime history. It’s a Fact: Rock legend Eric Clapton owns a home on the island, and you can see it from the bluffs of Shirley Heights.

Participants soar across a lush forest, gliding along zip lines and through a challenge course. The experience includes walking across suspension bridges and flying along several zip lines with a ropes-challenge course that does not require much physical strength but offers an excellent view of the landscape below. Safety instructions and equipment are included.

Signature Souvenirs: Rum, hot pepper sauce and toy steel drums. How to Get to Town: The lively center of St. John’s is an easy walk from the pier. It takes only a minute or two, and you may not even lose sight of your ship.

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Ports of call | Antigua

PORT VIEW

Life in St. John's is centered on the harbor.

Things We Love About Antigua Called “the Gateway to the Caribbean,” Antigua has been favored by sailors since Britain’s Adm. Lord Horatio Nelson sailed into port in 1784. Today, Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is the world’s only remaining Georgian naval yard, a favorite with yachties and the site of one of the world’s top five regattas. Historic stone buildings house boutiques, restaurants and museums. Antigua’s beaches offer everything from family fun and romantic relaxation to challenging watersports. And shoppers can dive into two special areas on the island. Duty-free shopping reigns at Heritage Quay, where shops sell fine jewelry, perfumes, clothing and more. At the waterfront Redcliffe Quay, shops in colorful colonial 64

buildings sell handicrafts and Caribbean artwork. When it’s time for a break, restaurants tempt visitors’ palates with Antigua’s national dish: fungi and pepperpot, a thick vegetable stew made with yam, squash, okra, eggplant, dasheen leaves (similar to spinach), plantains and pumpkin, served with salted meat and fried cornmeal dumplings. Dessert is an extra-sweet Antigua black pineapple. Don’t be surprised to see familiar faces in Antigua’s restaurants. Through the years, Eric Clapton, Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman have owned homes on this island, named the best in the Caribbean for celebrity spotting. — John Bigley and Paris Permenter

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Ports of call | Antigua

HARBOR HISTORY By Deborah Williams

It was 1671 when Sir Charles Wheeler, governor of the Leeward Islands, first urged the British Crown to consider the deep, expansive bay called English Harbour, Antigua, as a seaport for the Royal Navy. By 1704, the harbor was sheltering a large part of the British fleet, which set out from here on raids and forays over the next 100 years — a period of constant power struggles between British, Spanish, French and Dutch explorers, settlers and pirates. The only remaining Georgian naval dockyard in the world achieved its greatest fame when Adm. Lord Horatio Nelson, the man who was to become Britain’s most celebrated naval hero, was headquartered there. During Nelson’s days in Antigua, the Antillean islands ranked higher in importance than the North American

colonies, thanks to sugar. The crop was so lucrative that the British government spent a fortune on the dockyard to maintain the might of the Royal Navy and to discourage invaders who sought this precious natural resource. The yard was officially abandoned by the Royal Navy in 1889, and soon fell into disrepair. It was restored and reopened in 1961 by a group of Antiguans and expatriates who formed an organization known as the Society of Friends of English Harbour. Now a national park, this area is a lively center for sailors, history buffs and anyone who enjoys a nautical atmosphere.

PHOTOS BY: JULES SWICKARD/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

LEFT: The dockyard where ships and sails were overhauled and repaired. BELOW: Adm. Lord Horatio Nelson, commander of the dockyard for the Royal Navy’s West Indies Fleet during the late 18th century.

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Ports of call | Antigua

Antigua and Barbuda

MUSEUM

For a look back at Antigua’s colonial past, visit this historical museum, housed in the Old Court House. Colonial artifacts, sugar-plantation displays and a life-size replica of an Arawak Indian dwelling can all be found here.

Shipping was important to Antigua’s past.

PHOTOS BY: (POTTERY) THANAPUNSHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (SHIP ILLUSTRATION) ROBERT FREEMAN.

Ancient pottery

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Spend time during the day on our cool veranda overlooking Heritage Quay. Featuring tropical drinks and a

menu of delightful soups, salads, sandwiches and a large variety of Caribbean seafood. In the evening, enjoy

PHOTOS BY: (POTTERY) THANAPUNSHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (SHIP ILLUSTRATION) ROBERT FREEMAN.

the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best Creole cuisine in a romantic and authentic West Indian setting.

Monday - Saturday - 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

www.hemingwayantiqua.com Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Ports of call | Antigua

OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port

Baobab Company

The Baobab Company, located upstairs, represents a collection of casual, stylized and highly graphic impressions on certified organic T-shirts, cover-ups, dresses, shorts, baggies and button-downs for men, women and children. We convey the ethnic soul and culture of Antigua.

35 Heritage Quay baobabcompany.com | 268-562-8305

St. John’s

Zemi Art Gallery

Zemi Art Gallery offers a modern and unique approach to local arts and crafts. This intimate gallery carries an exclusive collection of indigenous and authentic art, which steps away from mass-produced souvenirs.

Redcliffe Quay | 268-764-9627

St. John's is a charming stop for duty-free shopping.

STYLE

SARAH CHERITON-JONES/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Originally a busy trading area for merchants and shopkeepers surrounding the harbor, St. John’s has retained much of the charm and scale of the past while offering excellent duty-free shopping at several international retailers. Popular Antigua attractions, such as Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights, are only a few minutes away by car from the ship’s dock at St. John’s.

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Noreen Phillips haute couture designs have graced the Caribbean fashion arena for three decades. Her collections are fashionably current, timelessly detailed and globally seamless. She says, “Women’s alluring attire should reflect elegance and drop-dead glamour.” Her store includes a range of prêt-à-porter clothing, hats and handbags.

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s, Antigua Tel/Fax: 268-462-3127 Email: noreenphillipscouturiere@hotmail.com

www.noreenphillipscouturiere.com

antigua’s favourite

SARAH CHERITON-JONES/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

pizzas wings burgers sandwiches wraps & more

Pizzas in Paradise, Redcliffe Quay, Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, 268 480 6985 17º61º, V.C. Bird Intl Airport, Old & New Terminal Open daily 7am-9pm, 268 480 6979 www.bigbanana-antigua.com

hotel, restaurant, sushi bar & lounge

With its understated yet sophisticated décor, exclusive waterfront location and first class concierge services, South Point offers a truly unique and sophisticated boutique hotel experience in the heart of historic English Harbour, the Caribbean’s yachting capital. The restaurant boasts a dining deck entirely over the water, covered by a state of the art pergola – Our International menu, live sushi counter and signature cocktails is sure to become a favorite choice for lunch or dinner during your stay.

info@southpointantigua.com tel: + 1 268 562 9600

www.southpointantigua.com

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Ports of call | Aruba

Colorful boats tie up at the dock on Palm Beach.

ARUBA

It has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean and interesting inland landscapes. Aruba also draws visitors to its capital city, Oranjestad, where the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dutch heritage is evident in colorful architecture and the wares in its shops.

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FUNTREKS

Best of Aruba & Beach

Two of Aruba’s natural and man-made wonders, one of its lovely beaches and an aloe factory, are featured on this tour by air-conditioned motor coach. Sights include the California Lighthouse, the Casibari Rock Formation, the collapsed Natural Bridge and the Baby Natural Bridge; the tour also offers a one-hour beach break.

Sailaway Snorkel & Beach Cruise

Enjoy sailing, snorkeling and beach combing, as well as a delicious barbeque lunch, on this fun-filled catamaran excursion.

De Palm Island Beach & Snorkel

JO ANN SNOVER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

This all-in-one getaway offers three hours of fun on De Palm Island. Besides its white, sandy beach, the island boasts a water park and a coral reef that is one of Aruba’s best snorkeling spots. A buffet lunch, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are included; the island is equipped with lounge chairs, freshwater showers and changing rooms.

Atlantis Submarine

Guests ride the U.S. Coast Guard-approved Atlantis VI submarine on a 50-minute viewing of a sunken airplane or the wreck of the retired Danish sailboat Mi Dushi I, together with the sunken coaster Morgenster. Exotic marine life comes into sight during the descent that goes as deep as 130 feet.

Natural Pool Off Road Adventure

Quick Guide

Explore Aruba off the beaten track and experience its famous Natural Pool in off-road safari style in your customized Land Rovers.

Famed for: Palm Beach, windsurfing and jeep rides into the countryside. It’s a Fact: The unusual, sculptured-looking watapana (aka divi-divi), the national tree of Aruba, always points to the southwest. It’s shaped by the trade winds that constantly blow from the northeast. Signature Souvenirs: Wheels of Gouda and Edam cheese, aloe products and Delftware porcelain. How to Get to Town: To reach the colorful shops and attractions of Oranjestad, just walk through the cruise terminal and turn left onto L.G. Smith Boulevard.

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Ports of call | Aruba

PORT VIEW

Colorful architecture lines Aruba’s streets.

Things We Love About Aruba Everything Dutch comes alive in Oranjestad — from gabled architecture to delicious cheeses and exquisite blue Delft china. But not all of its attractions are imported. Oranjestad’s picturesque harbor boasts many tempting boutiques at the Renaissance Mall and Marketplace. Treasures such as Mopa Mopa art await in the shops along Caya G.F. Betico Croes, a delightful setting with classic Dutch-gabled, pastel-hued store facades. The legacy at the Numismatic Museum is a rich one — literally. It contains some 40,000 historic coins and paper money from more than 400 countries. More heritage is on display at the Aruba Historical Museum. It can be reached with a walk down

bustling L.G. Smith Boulevard to Fort Zoutman and the King Willem III Tower. At lunchtime, try a bowl of tasty keshi yena, an island specialty made with minced tenderloin and chicken stewed with golden raisins, prunes and nuts, all stuffed into a round ball of Dutch Gouda cheese. Adventurous types can explore the rugged, arid north side and famous natural bridges, or head to De Palm Island for snorkeling and swimming. It might be wise to first visit the Aruba Aloe Museum and Factory, where Aruba’s signature moisturizing miracle and sunburn remedy is extracted from the island’s bountiful aloe plants. — Richard Varr

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Ports of call | Aruba

Island Highlights By Sara Churchville

Pastechis These pastries, served at any meal and filled with dried fruit, spices and meat or seafood, are one of the island’s best-loved specialties. Natural Bridges Aruba has several bridges formed naturally from coral limestone, but one was known above all: the Natural Bridge. Spanning 100 feet and rising 23 feet above sea level, it was a national treasure. Unfortunately, it collapsed in 2005. The nearby Baby Natural is only 25 feet long and 3 feet high, but it has taken the original’s place as a favorite attraction for visitors and locals alike. Rock Formations Hikers can experience a bit of Stonehenge in the Caribbean thanks to Aruba’s as-yet-unexplained rock and boulder formations. Some of the formations are full of quartz-diorite, while others, like the ones at Ayo, are decorated with petroglyphs. A few even seem to have been stacked atop each other, though apparently not by human hands. If you scale one, you’ll be rewarded with wonderful views of the island.

PHOTOS BY: FERNANDO ARRONIZ/ARUBA TOURISM BOARD; PRASAD GONDI/WIKIPEDIA.COM; LIMEINTERACTIVE/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Sand Dunes and Lighthouses Explorers of the island’s desert topography on foot will find tumbleweed, aloe, cacti — and sand dunes. The California Lighthouse, named for a ship that sank offshore in 1910, stands amid the sweeping sand dunes of Hudishibana, on the northwest tip of Aruba. The area around the structure is a popular spot for picnics and beach strolling, and the waters off the beach offer excellent swimming and snorkeling.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A lighthouse overlooks the water from a sand dune; pastechis, a favorite island snack; Baby Natural Bridge; impressive rock formations.

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fancy

GREEN DIAMONDS

exotic

FIRE OPAL

ST. THOMAS

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E-mail: info@kaysfinejewelry.com www.kaysfinejewelry.com Friend us on Facebook: Kfj Caribbean

9/5/14 9:39 AM

Ports of call | Aruba

A Diverse, Friendly

POPULATION By Gerald Zarr

Aruba is home to a mixture of people from South America, Europe, the Far East and other islands throughout the Caribbean, though most are descended from Arawak, Dutch and Spanish ancestors. No full-blooded Amerindians remain. Keen linguists, the people of Aruba use Dutch, English, Spanish and Papiamento with ease, often all in the same conversation.

The Dutch Come to Stay With their lukewarm attitude toward Aruba, the Spanish didn’t resist too fiercely when the Dutch came calling in 1636 to seize Aruba and the sister islands of Bonaire and Curaçao. Once again, Aruba was saved from the slave trade and a plantation economy because of its poor soil and aridity. Instead, the Dutch left the Arawaks to graze livestock on the parched landscape, using the island to produce meat for other Dutch possessions in the area. With the exception of a short period during the Napoleonic Wars, when the island fell to the British, Aruba has remained Dutch. Undergound caves at Arikok National Park have been traced back thousands of years to Aruba's native cultures. 78

ZINA SELETSKAYA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Beginnings Two thousand years ago, the Arawak people settled Aruba and were still there in 1499 when the Spanish conquistador Alonso de Ojeda came to claim the island for Queen Isabella of Spain. The Spanish didn’t think highly of Aruba, finding it too arid for cultivation — a bad judgment call, because they missed the gold that was right under their noses and didn’t foresee the future economic boom in oil and high-rise hotels. This proved a lucky break for the Arawaks, however. Spain left Aruba alone for more than a century. Thanks to that laissez-faire approach, the native heritage is stronger in Aruba than on most Caribbean islands.

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Nineteenth-Century Gold Rush In 1824,Aruba experienced its first economic boom when gold was discovered on its northern coast. A flood of gold-hungry immigrants arrived from Europe and Venezuela, and the gold rush was on. A smeltery at Bushiribana processed over 3 million tons of raw material until 1916, when the mines were shut down. After gold petered out, Aruba became the world’s top producer of aloe, just as the sunbathing craze was taking off in the United States. One can still visit the Aruba Aloe Balm Factory and see the production process from aloe leaf to finished lotions and creams.

Modern Politics and Tourism In the 1940s, Aruba began to resent playing second fiddle to Curaçao in the federation known as the Netherlands Antilles (then composed of Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and Suriname). By 1986, Aruba had enough and became an autonomous state within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with its own constitution and a high degree of self-governance. For a while, Aruba toyed with the idea of proceeding to full independence, but decided to stay Dutch. In the capital of Oranjestad, literally “orange town” in Dutch in honor of Holland’s reigning House of Orange, a 21-member legislative assembly elected by popular vote meets regularly. The prime minister heads an eight-member council of ministers. Despite its separate status, the Netherlands is still responsible for defense and foreign affairs, and Aruba retains strong economic, cultural and political ties with the mother country and her sister islands. Before the first luxury hotel was opened in 1959, cruise ships provided the main source of visitors to the island. Since then, both ship- and land-based tourism have grown phenomenally. Aruba now boasts more than 6,000 hotel rooms and over a million visitors each year. Having surpassed oil as a source of revenue, tourism is now the mainstay of the island economy.

ZINA SELETSKAYA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Twentieth-Century Black Gold Rush Oil gave Aruba its next economic boom. In 1929, the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey (now ExxonMobil) built what was then the world’s largest oil refinery in San Nicolas, on the southeastern coast. This refinery employed more than 8,000 people — 16 percent of Aruba’s population — making San Nicolas the island’s second-largest city. ExxonMobil closed the refinery in 1985 during a global oversupply, but the Coastal Oil Company of Houston, Texas, reopened it in 1991.

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Ports of call | Aruba

Shopping

and take Aruba’s Lifestyle home

Biba Dushi means ‘living the good life’ in our local language,

It’s Aruba’s ThisPapiamento. area is known aslifestyle the which we embrace every day and we encourage you to take a piece of it home with you. Turquoise Coast for good reason.

Available exclusively at Coconuts Retail Stores and Atlantis Submarines.

Buy Bon bini — Local welcome to Aruba. The island boasts some of the best beaches At Coconuts we support local suppliers and artists You’ll find the in the most Caribbean. All of the beaches on the island are public, with the most unique souvenirs and clothing, locally designed and made. popular situated along the southern and protected western coasts. Palm Beach is 30 yards deep with mounds of fine talc-white sand and is one of the most famous beaches in the West Indies. The shore is lined with busy resorts and the waves are usually full of active windsurfers. Closer to Oranjestad, Eagle Beach is another favorite choice. This beach is generally less crowded than Palm Beach and offers a variety of water sports. Other possibilities on the leeward coast include Druif Bay Beach, a more private beach less frequented by tourists. Toward the northern tip lies Arashi Souvenirs, Accessories and Beachwear Beach, boasting an excellent offshore dive site. The easternmost tip of the At Coconuts Retail Stores you’ll find high quality island cradles a charming cove called Baby Beach, where the calm, shallow, beachwear and souvenirs. Stroll the seashore in crystal-clear water is ideal for children and snorkelers. style with sporting swimwear and accessories On the windward coast to the north, hidden strips and coves intolike theO’Neill, Body from premier beachcut brands Glove, Reef, 69 Slam Vitamina A. Whether it’s brittle limestone coastline. Here the water tends to be rough — notand advisable a day of playand under the sun or a night of romance for swimming, but ideally suited for the local windsurfers kitesurfers who under the stars, Coconuts’ extensive selection especially favor Bachelor’s Beach and Boca Grandi. — Lynn Seldon of swimsuits, sunglasses, beach toys, dresses, sandals and gifts will meet all your fashion and souvenir needs.

Locations: Coconuts Occidental: The biggest of all Coconuts stores can be found beachside at the Occidental Hotel in Palm Beach. Renovated in 2015, this location offers everything you need for a beach day, souvenirs and more. The store also has an Activity Desk to book island tours and other activities. Open: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm daily. Coconuts at De Palm Pier: Located on a pier between RUI Palace and Hilton Resort this store is worth a visit for its location alone. Booking tours and activities is also possible. Open: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm daily. Coconuts at De Palm Island: When visiting the all-inclusive attraction De Palm Island you will automatically be drawn into Coconuts. Open: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm daily. Atlantis Submarines: Located waterfront downtown Oranjestad, this shopping location is where you board for the Atlantis Submarine tour. Open: 8:30 am 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday.

It’s easy to find places to relax on the beach in Aruba.

ARUBA TOURISM BOARD

SHIMMERING SHOP AT COCONUTS … SHORES

Special Advertising Feature

Treasure Coins of the Caribbean

Piece of Eight

By Bernard Reller, American Numismatic Association R-159127 Copyright 2014 Shortly after Christopher Columbus “discovered” the New World in 1492, Spanish conquistadores arrived to conquer and subjugate the indigenous peoples of present day Mexico, Central and South America and exploit the vast riches of silver and gold found there. They soon established mines and mints to refine metal and strike coins for trading in the colonies and to finance the ever expanding debt of the Spanish Monarchy in Europe. The wealth and produce of the New World was shipped to Spain via convoys of sailing ships guarded by heavily armed galleons which carried most of the silver and gold. Many of these convoys would fall victim to violent hurricanes and marauding pirates. The units of currency of the Spanish colonies were the silver real and the gold escudo and valued at sixteen reales to one escudo. The coins of the New World were first produced under crude conditions. A thin slab of metal would be poured, then discs or “planchettes” would be cut from this bar. The planchettes were further clipped to a precise weight then hand struck between two hand carved dies. Early coins carried on one side an image of pillars and waves. The other side carried a simple shield bearing lions and castles. Later, more elaborate shield designs were introduced to represent 82

various other lands under the control of Spain. With the introduction of the screw press in 1732, these gradually gave way to round “milled” coins known as “Pillar Dollars” and the later “Bust Dollars” bearing a likeness of the monarch. Minting in the colonies continued until 1825. For 300 years, Spanish coins served as the currency for much of the world including the early North American Colonies. The Spanish eight real coin or famous “piece of eight” was based on the avoirdupois ounce of approximately 28 grams. The gold “doubloon” later came to apply to other denominations of gold coins. The Spanish “piece of eight” ultimately gave rise to the United States dollar. Over the years, most of this crude Spanish coinage found its way into the melting pots of Europe and the world, but today treasure hunters and salvage divers, using modern equipment, are recovering long-lost caches of treasure, much of them in the waters of the Caribbean. The most famous shipwreck treasure was found in the waters of the Florida Keys. The Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Atocha struck a reef and sank on September 6, 1622. After 15 years of searching the waters, famed treasure hunter Mel Fisher, and his company Treasure Salvers

Reller Atocha Coin

Coins available at Touch of Gold Inc., discovered the main wreck site on July 20, 1985. They ultimately recovered over 160,000 Spanish Colonial coins and over 1,000 eighty pound silver ingots. The Atocha has the distinction of being the richest Spanish treasure galleon recovered to date. Currently around the Caribbean, shipwreck treasure in the form of gold and silver jewelry is frequently worn by salvage divers, sailors, adventurers...and of course by their women. The trend harkens back to those swashbuckling days... when pirates roamed the Spanish Main...and life was lived on “the edge.”

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Shipwreck Treasure Coins Greek & biblical coins Authentic & certified yesterday, today and forever

Touch of Gold

JEWELERS

Oroubo Plaza - L.G. Smith Boulevard, Weststraat # 13 (Next to the Main Bus Terminal) - Oranjestad - Aruba Tel: (297) 588-9587 - Fax: (297) 588-5361 - E-mail: togaruba@gmail.com

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Ports of call | Aruba

PAPIAMENTO Spoken Here The language, like the people, has evolved from a wonderful mix of cultures and reflects the friendly and open nature of the country and the people. Of course, most also speak English and Dutch, but Arubans have a flair for language and it is not uncommon to hear four or five languages used in a single conversation. Papiamento is a Creole language derived from African and Iberian Romance languages, with influences from Amerindian languages, English and Dutch. The language has two main dialects. Papiamento, which is spoken primarily in Aruba, and Papiamentu, heard in Bonaire and Curaçao. The name of the language is derived from “papear,” which means “to jabber” in Portuguese or “to speak incoherently” in Spanish. The name also has the same meaning as the word “parliament,” which is derived from the French word “parler” (to speak). Through the middle of the 19th century, Papiamento was the main language for written materials on the island, including hymnals and schoolbooks printed by the Catholic Church. The language thrived until Dutch was named as the official language of instruction in schools. Official or not, the locals continued to prefer their own locally grown language, with its lilting, rhythmic tones, for personal communication. Finally, in 2003, after being spoken since the 1500s, Papiamento joined Dutch as the official language of Aruba. — Jim Thompson

Here are some words and phrases to help you communicate like a native while in Aruba. Welcome Have a nice day! How are you? I am fine My name is... What is your name? Thank you very much You are welcome See you later Very good Congratulations Goodbye Good morning Good afternoon Good evening Good night

Bon bini Pasa bon dia! Con ta bai? Mi ta bon Mi nomber ta... Con jamabo? Masha danki Di nada Te aworo Hopi bon Masha pabien Ayo Bon dia Bon tardi Bon nochi Bon nochi

DUDAREV MIKHAIL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

If someone in Aruba says “bon bini” to you, don’t think they are being forward. They are only saying “welcome” in their native language of Papiamento.

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Ports of call | Aruba

Shopping in

Aruba CURAÇAO

Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

Safi Kilima Cushion tanzanite pendant

Sara G Split-shank cluster diamond ring, 14k white gold

Lauren G Adams Eau Collection bracelet

Citizen World Chronograph A-T watch

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GRAHAM TOMLIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Barbados

Palms sway at Bottom Bay, near Bridgetown.

BARBADOS

With manicured gardens, a centuries-old parliament and plenty of polo games and cricket matches, charming Barbados wears its British heritage like a comfortable tweed coat. But Barbadians have added their own twists to these traditions.

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FUNTREKS

Harrison’s Cave

This tour begins with interpretive exhibits at the new cliff-top Visitor Centre of the attraction and then descends to the valley floor via a cliff trail, a valley trail or glass-enclosed elevators. Harrison’s Cave has an amazing array of stalactites and stalagmites, crystalclear subterranean streams and a magnificent waterfall plunging into a deep emerald pool.

Jolly Roger Snorkeling & Pirate Party Cruise

GRAHAM TOMLIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Welcome aboard the 110-foot Jolly Roger pirate ship for the most fun you will have on your vacation. After only a five-minute transfer to the dock it’s time for a fourhour voyage consisting of two snorkel stops to feed the hundreds of fish and the sea turtles while viewing the sunken shipwrecks. Then take a scenic cruise along the coast before enjoying some plank walking for the action lovers. After swimming the party gets going with a full open bar. Minimum age for snorkeling is 8 years.

Atlantis Submarine

Guests descend 55 feet below the waters of Barbados in the 48-person submarine Atlantis. The air-conditioned cabin offers spectacular views of coral, fish and other marine life. Atlantis then goes 115 to 150 feet deep to view a shipwreck.

Tiami Sail, Turtles & Beach

Quick Guide Famed for: Sugarcane plantations, landscape paintings and cricket matches. It’s a Fact: The island’s signature Crop Over Festival started, as its name suggests, as a celebration of the end of the sugarcane harvesting season. Signature Souvenirs: Rum, flying fish (yes, they do fly — well, glide at least) and cricket paraphernalia. How to Get to Town: The downtown area of Bridgetown is located about a mile from the cruise ship pier, about 10 minutes away by taxi. Shuttle buses also are available. The shuttle pick-up point is just to the right of the cruise terminal; drop-off and pick-up for the return trip to the terminal is at the head of Broad Street.

A sleek, spacious catamaran takes passengers alongside Barbados’ scenic coastline, anchoring in a sheltered bay for swimming and snorkeling among peaceful families of green and hawksbill turtles. It then sails to a second bay for swimming or strolling on the sand. The tour includes complimentary cocktails.

Five Star Catamaran & Turtle Encounter

This luxurious cruise by catamaran includes food, drinks, scenery, snorkeling and even a swim with turtles. Participants may swim in a sheltered bay or join a guided snorkel expedition on a reef. The tour then moves on to a second spot for a turtle encounter and a stroll on the beach; lunch is served on the way.

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PIXACHI/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Barbados

PORT VIEW

Bridgetown's promenade is a scenic walkway.

Things We Love About Barbados Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, is a favorite among travelers who want to see “the real Caribbean.” A bustling metropolis in its own right, it doesn’t have the touristy feel some hot spots do. And the island’s panoramic landscape is among the most lush and majestic in the southern Caribbean. Hiking and driving tours of seaside villages, plantations, gardens and 17th-century English country churches make Barbados a great place for adventure or relaxation. Diving is the grand pursuit here: Underwater visibility usually exceeds 100 feet and provides 90

stunning views of magnificent hawksbill turtles and more than 50 varieties of fish gliding through shallow reefs. Popular dive sites include Dottins Reef, Maycocks Bay, Shark Bank and others. Duty-free shopping is as close as the cruise ship terminal at Bridgetown Harbor, where dozens of shops offer everything you would expect: collectible watches, big diamonds and other outrageously luxurious goods not found in any other port. In Bridgetown, Broad Street is home to vendors specializing in fine local products such as watches, gold jewelry, crystal, perfumes and locally produced Barbados rum and liqueurs. — Jim Thompson

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Ports of call | Barbados

Island Highlights

By Jim Thompson Flying Fish Called “land of the flying fish,” Barbados has a special reverence for this unusual marine creature, which is depicted on currency, in sculptures and in the national tourism authority's logo. Using large pectoral fins like wings, the fish can leap from the water and “fly” for up to 45 seconds at speeds of over 40 mph.

Currency Vivid colors and a fixed rate of two Barbadian dollars to one US dollar make it simple to understand Barbados’ currency. The blue $2 bill and the seven-sided silver $1 coin with the image of a flying fish on the face are the most-used currency on the island. Cou-Cou Tracing its roots to the island’s African ancestry, cou-cou — a Caribbean polenta — has been a staple in Barbados since the early colonial days. Made from cornmeal mixed with okra, pepper, butter and water, cou-cou is paired with flying fish to make the island’s national dish. Rum “Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum.” This liquid libation, distilled from molasses and sugarcane juice, was born in Barbados (Mount Gay Rum dates to the 1600s) and has refreshed thirsty rebels from pirates to America’s colonial revolutionaries. George Washington insisted on having a barrel of Barbados rum at his 1789 presidential inauguration.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Flying fish gliding above the water; Barbados flag atop the Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown; rum cocktail; cou-cou with vegetables; Barbados dollar notes.

PHOTOS BY: (FLYING FISH) BARTUCHNA@YAHOO.PL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BARBADOS FLAG) V. J. MATTHEW/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (DOLLARS) KAREN HADLEY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (POLENTA) ALENAKOGOTKOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (DRINK) DMITRY LOBANOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Barbados Flag Adopted on the island’s first Independence Day in 1966, the flag of Barbados incorporates two bands of blue to symbolize the ocean, a central band of yellow for the sand and a black trident. The three points of the trident represent a democratic government of, for and by the people.

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Ports of call | Barbados

CANE & CRICKET By John Anderson

Barbados had felt other cultural influences before the British arrived and left their indelible stamp. from the British Isles became the backbone of the labor force prior to the use of African slaves. Contemporary Times Even as the economy started suffering in the 1800s, cane cultivation was still the dominant industry. But since having gained independence from Britain in 1966, tourism has flourished. Even as Barbados enjoys a healthy economy in its own right tofay, it continues to cherish one British tradition. When Barbados hosts England in a cricket Test Match, English fans flock to the island to watch the national sport of both countries in a carnival-like setting. Some of Barbados’ most celebrated modern heroes are cricket players, including Clyde Walcott, Frank Worrell and Everton Weekes — the “Three Ws,” all knighted in the 1960s — as well as Garfield “Gary ” Sobers, considered to be the greatest cricketer of all time.

PHOTOS BY: (CRICKET MATCH) MAT/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BOWLER) AHMAD FAIZAL YAHYA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BAT) RYAN JORGENSEN - JORGO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (RED BALL) TEREKHOV IGOR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Beginnings As early as 1600 B.C., Amerindians canoed across dangerous currents to arrive first in Barbados, followed centuries later by tribes such as the Arawak and the Carib. But the Indians had abandoned the island by the time it was discovered by Europeans in the 1500s. It wasn’t until Portuguese sailors landed here on their way to Brazil in 1536 that Barbados finally got its name, meaning “bearded ones,” from the “bearded” aerial roots of the abundant fig trees on the island. When the first British settlers landed here in 1627, Barbados was uninhabited and the settlers established Holetown on the island’s western coast. In 1639, together with the British governor and the Anglican Church, a local House of Assembly was elected to rule the island, an unusual amount of autonomy for a British colony. Sugarcane was introduced in the 1650s, and as demand for sugar took off, local plantations struggled to find workers to harvest the labor-intensive crop. White indentured servants

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SUNBURY PLANTATION HOUSE

Ports of call | Barbados

Sunbury Plantation House has been around for more than 350 years.

At Home

WITH THE PAST By Michelle da Silva Richmond

When gentleman farmer Matthew Chapman — one of Barbados’ original settlers — arrived from England and built his plantation house around 1660, he was unaware that it would reign as one of the island’s foremost tourist attractions some 350 years later. The Chapman Plantation included a sugar plantation and a cattle mill by the time Chapman died in 1693, after which it changed hands — and names — several times. When brothers John and George Barrow purchased the estate in 1775, they renamed it Sunbury, after their childhood home in Kent, England. Known today as Sunbury Plantation House, the property is owned by the Melville family, who opened it as a museum in January 1984. After a fire in July 1995 nearly destroyed the great house,

a meticulous restoration returned it to its former glory, and it reopened the following year in its present incarnation. The estate serves as a historical tribute to the genteel side of Barbados’ history, with antique furnishings, a unique collection of horse-drawn carriages and farm implements and both china and silver, attesting to its storied past. The grounds, gardens and small wooded area surrounding the house are also open to the public and offer a romantic venue for weddings and other special events.

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Special Advertising Feature

Calypso Rum Cake: Homestyle Taste Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island-Made

he Calypso Rum Cake is a local favorite enjoyed by the many tourists visiting the beautiful Caribbean island of Barbados. These homestyle rum cakes bursting with delicious flavour are made with generous portions of premium rum.

Flavours include Vanilla, Lemon-Ginger, Coffee, Chocolate and Great Cake. Only sold in Barbados, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to leave the island without these tasty souvenirs to share with family and friends. And stock up for yourself and savour the warm hospitality in every bite.

Come visit our store in the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal, Barbados

Free Samples & Specials Daily Available in-store only

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Ports of call | Barbados

BORN FREE Green vervet monkeys roam as they like in Barbados, but you may prefer to meet them at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve.

The green vervet monkey can be seen throughout Barbados.

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PHOTOS BY: (MONKEY) VOLODYMYR BURDIAK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Here, the agile monkeys move freely through the mahogany forest. An estimated 8,000 primates scamper in and out of the refuge as they please during the day, generally returning in time for scheduled afternoon snacks. Opened in 1985, the nearly cage-free reserve houses deer, mongooses, agoutis, iguanas and armadillos, plus five types of tortoises and dozens of bird species. Brick pathways, open to both people and animals, wind through the woods, and there are wonderful natural-history exhibitions to observe and photograph. Remember to watch your step if you walk to the flamingo pond and through the huge, screened aviary.

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ERIC LEMAR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Belize

Belize’s barrier reef is one of the longest in the world, making it a popular spot for divers.

BELIZE

For a country of its tiny size, Belize is blessed with an incredible share of natural treasures — including the world’s only jaguar preserve and the Western Hemisphere’s longest barrier reef. Belize also boasts numerous historical and cultural artifacts, especially in the ancient ruins of the Mayan civilization that called Belize home. 102

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FUNTREKS

Shark, Rays, Barrier Reef Snorkel & Island Escape

Enjoy the rich, pristine waters and abundant marine and reef life. After snorkeling the Barrier Reef, you will proceed to Shark & Ray Alley, where you will have the amazing experience of swimming in the water with these nurse sharks and gentle rays. After this amazing, personal encounter with sharks and rays, it’s back to the Caye Caulker Island to relax on the beach.

ERIC LEMAR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

Guests explore this famous Mayan archaeological site and then have a Belizean lunch in San Ignacio Town. Next they take a relaxing scenic journey to the Mopan River and then a five-minute ferry ride across the river to the remote ruins. The tour includes lunch in the San Ignacio area.

Lamanai Mayan Ruins & River Boat Safari

Lamanai is one of the largest and most excavated Mayan sites in Northern Belize. Explore these ancient Mayan ruins and climb to the top of one of the largest ceremonial temples in Meso America. Pass through historic villages on the way to Ayinha Eco Park. Experience the best nature river cruise on your way to the world-famous Lamanai Ruins.

Jaguar Cave Zipline & Tubing Combo with Lunch

Quick Guide

Experience the best of both worlds: Belize’s cave tubing and jungle zip lining! Jaguar Cave Zip Line Cave Tubing Combo tour starts with zip lining through Jaguar Cave and finishes with cave tubing through Darknight Cave offering guests the world’s only zip line through a cave plus a cave tubing experience.

Famed for: Diving, nature preserves and beaches. It’s a Fact: The Garifuna people of Belize are descendants of the original Caribbean residents, the Caribs and Arawaks. Signature Souvenirs: Mayan astrological charts and pendants, tropical fruit preserves and nance liqueur, made with cherries grown in the Yucatán. How to Get to Town: Cruise guests take a tender from the ship to Belize’s Tourism Village, a 15-minute ride from the ship. Taxis into the city are available at the village.

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CLIMBERJAK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Belize

PORT VIEW

The ruins at Tikal present fascinating Mayan history.

Things We Love About Belize Belize is a country with a rich natural and cultural mix — from jungle animals and colorful fauna to Mayan ruins and artifacts to its watery landscape of more than 200 tropical island cays making up the nearly 200-milelong Belizean Barrier Reef. The largest one, Ambergris Caye, can be reached on a shore excursion where manatee-watching is a must, and where a dazzling variety of colorful marine life awaits scuba divers and snorkelers. Caye Caulker, just south of Ambergris, has quiet beaches for a relaxing day trip. A short walk along Albert Street, on Belize City’s waterfront, leads visitors to the Fort George Lighthouse and to the nearby House of Culture Museum, which was 104

once the governor’s residence. The Marine Terminal houses the Coastal Zone Museum, which showcases the barrier reef’s marine life. Mayan history, through artifacts and pottery, awaits visitors at the Museum of Belize. Many shoppers also snap up hand-carved treasures made from local wood at Market Square. Outside the city limits, visitors flock to the Belize Zoo, with its native ocelots and jaguars, or to the Community Baboon Sanctuary, where Black Howler monkeys frolic. The si x th-centur y Temple of the Green Tomb and the Temple of Masonr y Altar dominate Altun Ha, Belize’s most extensively excavated Mayan ruin. — Richard Varr

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Come visit

CLIMBERJAK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Freeles Samp

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Ports of call | Bonaire

FUNTREKS

Best of Bonaire

The beauty of Bonaire unfolds on a scenic drive along the northern coastline. Drink in the stunning sights of the clear turquoise waters including the island’s famed diving sites,1000 Steps and Karpata. The rustic countryside is filled with huge cacti, mesquite, acacia and divi-divi trees. Watch for shy pink flamingos at Goto Lake, travel through historic Rincon Village and visit the King’s Warehouse Cultural Park.

Samur Sail, Beach & Snorkel

PHOTOS BY: (KRALENDIJK) RENE SPUTH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

This Siamese junk or sailing vessel from Thailand is hand-carved with legends of fantasy and full of superstition fed by rituals thousands of years old. You’ll board the Samur and glide smoothly under its red sail to Klein Bonaire. Enjoy snorkeling the world-famous reefs and be mesmerized by the colorful coral formation.

Bonaire 2-Tank Scuba Dive

Your underwater adventure now begins as you explore the protected waters of the Bonaire Marine Park surrounding Klein Bonaire, a small island that has been preserved from development by locals. It’s rated the best diving in the Caribbean.

Boats tie up at Kralendijk, the capital.

BONAIRE

Considered one of the best diving locales in the Caribbean, Bonaire remains largely unspoiled. You won’t find a single traffic light on the entire island.

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Quick Guide Famed for: Coral reefs, sea turtles and flamingos. It’s a Fact: Bonaire’s only significant export is salt, which is cultivated in shallow, man-made ponds and salt beds. Signature Souvenirs: Dutch cheese, chocolate and miniature rustic cottages known as kunuku. How to Get to Town: It doesn’t take long to reach Bonaire’s center; the ship docks right in town. Downtown is just a twominute walk away.

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WHOLESALE & RETAIL

BONAIREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST SELECTION OF FINE WINE, LIQUORS AND TOBACCO Fine Cigars from our Full-Size Humidor A wide variety of liquors and aperitifs from around the world, including: bourbon, champagne, cognac, gin, grappa, imported beers, port, rum, tequila, single malt, vodka, whiskey, wines Pre-order your stock online at: www.bonairegiftshop.com and we will have it ready for you before you arrive in Bonaire.

Kaya Grandi 13, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles Tel.: (599) 717-2201 E-mail: bonaire@gmail.com Website: www.bonairegiftshop.com

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PHOTOS BY: (LAKE) CAPPI THOMPSON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (GARDEN) V. J. MATTHEW/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Ports of call | Canada

The Cains River flows through New Brunswick.

CANADA

Home to quaint fishing villages and charming towns, Canada’s Maritime Provinces hold the treasures of both man and nature. This region’s special gems include Saint John in New Brunswick and Halifax in Nova Scotia.

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PHOTOS BY: (LAKE) CAPPI THOMPSON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (GARDEN) V. J. MATTHEW/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Public garden in the center of Halifax, Nova Scotia.

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Ports of call | Canada

NEW BRUNSWICK: SAINT JOHN

FUNTREKS

• Coastal Kayak & Lobster Bake • St. Martins & the Bay of Fundy • Hopewell Rocks Tidal Discovery • Top 10 Best of Saint John • Reversing Rapids By Boat & City Trolley Combo

FROM TOP: Low tide reveals why New Brunswick’s famous Hopewell Rocks are also known as Flower Pot Rocks; a lighthouse overlooks Peggy’s Cove.

NOVA SCOTIA: HALIFAX TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS Here are just a few of the many tours you can experience during your visit. See your onboard shore-excursion specialist to book today. Please ask about age requirements, physical considerations, proper dress and other details.

• Peggy’s Cove & Double Decker City Tour • Peggy’s Cove & Titanic • Lobster & Lighthouses • Halifax City Tour • Top 10 Best of Halifax Tour

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PHOTOS BY: (TOP) GARY YIM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (BOTTOM) V. J. MATTHEW/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

FUNTREKS

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Ports of call | Canada

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NOVA SCOTIA: SYDNEY There is much to keep guests busy in Sydney: museums, historic sites and a steady schedule of cultural activities celebrating the area’s diverse heritage.

Quick Guide Famed for: Celtic music and culture from the port’s roots as a landing point for Scottish immigrants in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s a Fact: The port was an important naval base during World War II, when it was used to stock convoys headed to the European theater.

PAULA STEPHENS/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Signature Souvenirs: A miniature version of a Cape Breton lighthouse or of the 60-foot fiddle on the waterfront.

The sun sets on another active day in Sydney. Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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PHOTOS BY: (MAIN) DAVE ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK (BOTTOM) CLIMBERJAK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Ports of call | Charleston

A Charleston plantation.

CHARLESTON Southern hospitality is in fine form throughout South Carolina, which welcomes visitors with an array of recreational and cultural activities. Its coast is lined with miles of pristine beaches, while inland towns and cities offer fascinating heritage.

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PHOTOS BY: (MAIN) DAVE ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK (BOTTOM) CLIMBERJAK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Charleston's waterfront at sunrise.

Quick Guide Famed for: Plantation gardens, mansions and other remnants of the antebellum South. It’s a Fact: Fort Sumter, scene of the battle that began the U.S. Civil War, is located in Charleston’s harbor. Signature Souvenirs: The city’s special rice spoon, a sweetgrass basket and benne wafers.

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RANTON_IVANOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Cozumel

Ruins of a Mayan temple face the sea.

COZUMEL

This lovely stop on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is known for its amazing dive sites and for wellpreserved archaeological remnants of the Maya. It was once a sacred destination for that ancient civilization, making it a top attraction for history lovers.

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FUNTREKS

Passion Island by Power Catamaran

Travel by motorized catamaran along Cozumel coast to Isla Pasion, a beautiful picture perfect private island where white sandy beaches are surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters. Children 5 and under are free!

Tulum Temples & Mayan Village with Lunch

Visit the Mayan Temples of Tulum and enjoy a lunch in a Mayan Village hideaway. A Carnival exclusive!

Dolphin Swim & Ride, With Unlimited Food & Drink

This is the optimum dolphin adventure that offers couples and families the opportunity to swim with dolphins for 40 minutes in calm, protected ocean coves. Children 5 and under are free!

RANTON_IVANOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Adventure Jeep & Snorkel At Punta Sur

Explore Punta Sur Park, Cozumel’s famous Ecological Reserve. Travel through the beautiful landscape in an off road Jeep Wrangler, then jump in for an amazing snorkel excursion at Cozumel’s marine park.

All Inclusive Chankanaab Beach Day & Sea Lion Show

The original natural aquarium of the island, this is paradise found. If you love nature, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a day with family, friends and an array of natural and cultural activities.

Quick Guide Famed for: Beaches, diving and eco-parks. It’s a Fact: At the Parque Punta Sur eco-park on the south end of the island, whistling can cause crocodiles in the lagoon to rise to the surface. Signature Souvenirs: Silver jewelry, serapes and embroidered Mayan blouses. How to Get to Town: The Punta Langosta pier is right in the downtown area. From the International Pier or the Puerto Maya terminal, you’ll want to take a taxi.

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VILAINECREVETTE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Cozumel

PORT VIEW

Sea sponges and colorful fish surround a striking brain coral.

Things We Love About Cozumel Cozumel neatly balances its cultural experiences with its more playful reputation for shopping. In San Miguel, a charming town that hugs the waterfront, tourists can find locally made treasures of silver, turquoise and leather goods, as well as pottery, stone carvings and wooden masks by Cozumel artisans. The port also claims its share of duty-free shops offering diamonds, watches and designer jewelry. The avenidas (avenues) and calles (streets) of the town’s center are easy to explore by foot. Pleasant encounters are likely with some of the Caribbean’s friendliest people, the Maya, who first settled in Cozumel some 1,700 years ago.

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Many still live in the thatch-roofed homes originally designed by their ancestors. Lunch in town should always begin with guacamole; Cozumel’s restaurants are said to serve some of Mexico’s best versions of this classic avocado dip. Many visitors, especially families, head south from San Miguel to visit the dolphins and sea lions at Chankanaab Park. Other attractions include the landmark Punta Sur Ecological Park and Lighthouse, home to a Mayan-ruin site, and the Celerain Lighthouse, as well as a navigation museum. The road to ruins leads many visitors to the archaeological site of San Gervasio, near San Miguel. — Richard Varr

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Introducing the

Angelika Ring The

Infinity Ring

Commemorate your cruise with our signature TrueBlueÂŽ, Vivid Brown & Vogue Black Diamond collections, renowned for using only the most sought-after colored diamonds.

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Ports of call | Cozumel

Island Highlights Diving Paradise Teetering on the shelf of a 3,280-foot drop teeming with brilliantly colored marine life, Palancar Reef is the second-largest natural coral formation in the world and is considered one of the world’s outstanding diving destinations. Cochinita Pibil This traditional Yucatán Mayan dish is still one of the most popular foods served in Cozumel and throughout the region. Originally the dish was made with wild boar covered with achiote, or annatto seeds, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in a coal-fired stone pit. Today achiote paste and banana leaves are still a mandatory part of the preparation, although the boar has been replaced by pork and an oven is the preferred cooking method. Bitter-orange juice and various local spices are added to the achiote marinade, and the banana leaves give a distinctive flavor. Mexican Flag You’ll see the distinctive green, white and red colors of the bandera mexicana, or Mexican flag, celebrated everywhere from cocktails to quilts. Green symbolizes the hope of the independence movement that ended in 1821; white, the purity of the Catholic faith; and red, the union of Mexico after its rebellion against Spain. The eagle on the crest symbolizes its Aztec heritage. Mezcal It looks exactly like tequila, but this spirit has a few important distinctions. For one, it’s made from agave plants other than the blue agaves of Jalisco that are used in true tequila. For another, the agave piñas — pineappleshaped, pulpy bulbs from which the fermentable juice is extracted — are baked in underground wood-charcoalfired ovens rather than in steam ovens, giving them a smoky flavor that’s even more enhanced in mezcal añejo, which is aged in oak barrels for at least one year.

PHOTOS BY: (SCUBA) BRIAN LASENBY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (PLATE) PETER KIM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (FLAG) TRAPPY76/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (PLANT) TINA_RENCELJ/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

By Sara Churchville

FROM TOP: A scuba diver explores a coral reef; a plate of cochinita pibil; the Mexican flag; an agave plant.

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Ports of call | Cozumel

Visitors flock to ruins of the Mayan temple at Tulum.

A TALE OF TULUM Set against a backdrop of aquamarine Caribbean waters, Tulum’s awe-inspiring temple remains a striking sight.

PATRYK KOSMIDER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Perched high on the cliffs of the Yucatán Peninsula is the ancient city of Tulum, the only Mayan city known to have been built on the coast. Following the paths, visitors can visualize the indigenous religious ceremonies that took place here, and appreciate the magnificent beauty of this sacred locale. Today there is little to fear from the sacrificial pit, and the only ritual that must be followed is paying a fee to use your video camera. Generally coupled with a trip to Tulum is a visit to Xel-Há Lagoon. An oasis on a hot day, this soothing inland sea contains a natural underwater park and provides a wonderful respite after exploring.

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Ports of call | Cozumel

Shopping in

Cozumel Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

Hublot Classic Fusion Dwyane Wade

A cenote near Tulum.

Crown of Light Unity ring with champagne diamond

John Hardy Classic Chain Collection reversible bracelet in sterling silver and 18k gold

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FIDEICOMISO PARA LA PROMOCIÓN TURÍSTICA DE LA RIVIERA MAYA

Kabana Rose Collection pendant

UNDERGROUND WONDERS Cozumel has no surface lakes or freshwater rivers, but it does have many underground ponds and sinkholes known as cenotes (seh-NOH-tays). Some reach a depth of 210 feet — and to add to their mystery, they have openings that build from the bottom up. A cenote forms when a combination of water and carbon dioxide dissolves underground limestone. This process cuts fissures in the rocks and creates upward-reaching caverns resembling reverse holes. Their vertical walls continue to erode, filling the bottom of the pits with debris and causing the “holes” to rise. The early Maya people believed cenotes were inhabited by gods and provided an underground gateway to heaven. In gratitude to Chac, the god of water, they would drop gifts into the caves. — Eleanor Wilson

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Ports of call | Cozumel

NATURE REIGNS AT COZUMEL’S SMALL SEA

Not far from the busy shops, restaurants and bars of San Miguel, Chankanaab Park provides nature lovers with 450,000 square feet of pristine space to revel in.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEXICO TOURISM BOARD

Though the name means “small sea,” the park is really a little slice of paradise, with botanical gardens, a lagoon, a beach and a replicated Mayan village. The sparkling Chankanaab Lagoon is home to colorful coral, fish and turtles, as well as a Dolphin Discovery facility. Snorkeling and scuba diving are available from the beach. Pleasant pathways wind through botanical gardens where several hundred species of tropical plants thrive. The archaeological park contains reproductions of stone carvings from well-known ruins around Mexico and is staffed by guides to explain their significance. —Suzanne L. Carmel Turtles make their home in the park.

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HARRIS SHIFFMAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Curaçao

Willemstad’s waterfront is lined with colorful buildings as pretty as dollhouses.

CURAÇAO Willemstad, Curaçao’s picturesque capital, is built around a well-formed natural harbor and glows in soft pastel shades. The Dutch influence pervades the port, with its manor houses, neatly kept streets and delicious varieties of cheese and chocolate.

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FUNTREKS

Rainforest Experience & Curaçao Sightseeing

See the highlights of the island, including a stop at an aloe vera farm and a visit to the Rain Forest Mystery park, where you will experience the world of the Inca and the Maya and a wide variety of animals that live in Latin American rainforests.

Beach Break by Boat

A scenic boat ride alongside Curaçao’s coastline offers views of the island’s notable monuments and beautiful beaches. During the four-hour trip, participants can relax, take a refreshing swim or stroll along the beach. Guests are dropped off at the Sea Aquarium beach, which has a restaurant and bar.

Discover Curaçao Island Tour HARRIS SHIFFMAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Behold Curaçao’s countryside and the city of Willemstad, and visit three of the island’s highlights.

Dolphin Encounter

Dolphin trainers brief guests before the interactions with the friendly dolphins begin. Participants may touch, hug and kiss a dolphin on a submerged platform, and they will learn about the dolphin’s anatomy and social behavior.

Sea & See Curaçao

Quick Guide

This excursion combines a trip on the Seaworld Explorer semi-submarine with a tour of the city’s highlights. The state-of-the-art vessel takes passengers five feet below the surface to view marine life through large glass windows. The tour includes a trip across the famous Queen Juliana Bridge and a visit to Chobolobo, where Curaçao Liqueur is distilled in 100-year-old barrels.

Famed for: Dutch architecture, plentiful shopping and Christoffel National Park. It’s a Fact: The Amstel Brewery on the island is the only one in the world that uses seawater in its beer recipe — desalinated, of course. Signature Souvenirs: Wooden shoes, painted porcelain windmills and Curaçao liqueur. How to Get to Town: Willemstad’s shopping area, called Punda, is about a 15-minute walk from the pier. Some visitors prefer to take a taxi.

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Ports of call | Curaçao

LUCIA PITTER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

A building in Willemstad’s Old Town.

PORT VIEW Things We Love About Curaçao Willemstad is a history museum within itself. One look at its classic waterfront reveals why this natural harbor and scenic city center are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The brilliant Caribbean hues of the Dutch-designed buildings along Santa Ana Bay, with their rows of gable-roofed townhouses gleaming with red tiles, make this one of the most photographed Caribbean waterfronts. Just getting from the Punda district to Otrobanda is a treat: over Santa Ana Bay on the swinging 19th-century Queen Emma Bridge. Crossing into Otrobanda, you’ll find winding and narrow streets with gabled, Dutch-style houses that delight sightseers and locals alike. Many visitors begin with a trolley tour from Fort Amsterdam, where a British cannonball remains embedded in the 1769 Dutch Reform Church. Popular destinations include the renowned Kurá Hulanda Museum of African history, which courageously highlights the past slave trade, and the Mikvé IsraelEmanuel Synagogue — the oldest one in the Western Hemisphere, dating from 1651 — which has a unique floor of beach sand. Amid the kaleidoscope of colors in Otrobanda’s Floating Market is a vast selection of fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, unloaded from Venezuelan schooners. More-lasting mementos are available in the Punda district, along Heerenstraat and Breedestraat, where bargains range from cameras to highend jewelry. If you’re in the market for something to help you remember this colorful island, the famed Curaçao liqueur or a wheel of Edam or Gouda cheese is a wise choice. — Richard Varr

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OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port CARIBBEAN PARADISE

Caribbean Paradise

• Batik and exotic beach and resort wear • Ladies sarongs, beach cover-ups, short and long sets, dresses, caftans • Embroidered linen, Indian clothing, batik dresses, swimwear, beach towels, bags • Men’s Hawaiian shirts, color-change T-shirts, logo polos, shorts, children’s clothing • Souvenirs: banana-leaf photo albums, chess sets, ladies’ and men’s straw hats, caps • Authorized distributor for Rima Beach World beachwear

31 Heerenstraat | cp@jethani.com | 599-9-461-9822

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Ports of call | Fort Lauderdale

FORT LAUDERDALE With more than 300 miles of navigable waterways, a waterfront park in the middle of downtown, miles of spiffy beaches and the International Swimming Hall of Fame, it’s no wonder Fort Lauderdale has a reputation for loving all things aquatic.

Quick Guide Famed for: Beautiful beaches to the east, unspoiled Everglades to the west.

PHOTO BY: IVAN CHOLAKOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

It’s a Fact: The city became the No. 1 spot for college kids on spring break after the 1960 movie Where the Boys Are was filmed here. Signature Souvenirs: Seashells, alligator trinkets and juicy oranges.

FUNTREKS

TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS Here is one of the many tours you can experience during your visit. See your onboard shore-excursion specialist to book today. Please ask about age requirements, physical considerations, proper dress and other details.

Everglades Experience w/ FLL Airport Transfer

Discover fun on the sand and in the sky on the city’s beaches.

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Take time before your flight home for an adventure through South Florida’s unique ecosystem. Board an airboat and glide across the Everglades at speeds of up to 50 mph. View alligators, birds and other native wildlife as your captain explains a little bit about this unique ecosystem and the effect it has on South Florida. The park features a restaurant where you may purchase lunch or a light snack. Transportation to the airport is included in the price of this excursion.

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RAMUNAS BRUZAS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Freeport

The endless stretch of Taino Beach.

FREEPORT At first sight, you’ll love Freeport for its Lucaya resort scene. Then you’ll discover the natural side of 96-milelong Grand Bahama Island and realize that this is much more than just another pretty tourist magnet.

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FUNTREKS

All Inclusive Beach Getaway

A package for those who want it all! Air-conditioned transport to your day in paradise: swim in the crystal Caribbean waters; participate in activities based both on land or water. Play volleyball or challenge a friend to a spirited game of chess. Take in the stunning views from our beach bar with friendly staff onsite ensuring your visit is highly enjoyable. Our all-inclusive package offers round-trip transportation, entrance to beach facilities, open bar and our delicious Bahamian buffet.

Freeport Kayak & Nature Experience

Explore Freeport’s Lucayan National Park as you paddle through the inland creeks of the mangroves and walk on the pathways through the forest.

Dolphin Close Encounter

RAMUNAS BRUZAS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

This educational and interactive encounter begins with a short bus ride to the UNEXSO facility in Port Lucaya. Then, take a 20-minute boat ride through the canal systems of Grand Bahama Island to arrive at Sanctuary Bay, a natural 9-acre lagoon and home to fourteen Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. Learn about these dolphins while they splash and jump around you, and then step onto a 3-foot-deep submerged platform where you will pet, kiss and hug a dolphin.

VIP Luxury Sail

Quick Guide Famed for: Diving with dolphins and sharks, quiet beaches and old fishing settlements. It’s a Fact: For the scenes in Pirates of the Caribbean filmed in the Bahamas, moviemakers built a special, maneuverable, seaside platform to give the pirate-ship set the illusion of pitching and yawing. Signature Souvenirs: Make-your-own perfume, junkanoo music CDs and batik-fabric clothing.

Experience luxury and relaxation onboard our magnificent 50-foot Beneteau sailing yacht. Designed for voyage sailing and comfort with modern facilities, this unique “all-inclusive” adventure allows you to explore the stunning Caribbean Sea in style. Cruise out of the marina and sail along the coastline, enjoying the beautiful Taino beach view.

My Bahamian House: A Select Retreat!

Relax in an exclusive Bahamian-style home complete with your own chef, bartender and friendly host. Live the island dream and join a small, select group for a relaxing day of sun, to savor the flavors of the islands with unique cuisine and cocktails away from the crowds.

How to Get to Town: Lucayan Harbour lies 10 minutes west of Freeport. Taxis and limos line up to meet the cruise ships.

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ALBO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Freeport

PORT VIEW

Find your patch of shade on the beach at Freeport.

Things We Love About Freeport Grand Bahama, the most diverse island in the Bahamas, flexes its vacation muscle well beyond the Freeport-Lucaya resort scene. The ultimate island-swimming experience involves dolphins at UNEXSO (Underwater Explorers Society). The Lucaya-based operation also offers scuba-diving excursions. A number of other tour operators take you underwater for snorkeling at lovely Peterson Cay National Park or on brilliant offshore reefs, where tropical fish and spiny lobsters hang out. At Paradise Cove resort, west of the port, you can snorkel to Deadman’s Reef from the beach. Nature lovers can head east to the lush and historic Garden of the Groves for a serene tour of nature's finest 140

and lunch at the café. More active sorts can kayak and hike through Lucayan National Park, where ecosystems range from bat caves to remote beaches. Lively activities at Grand Lucayan Beach & Golf Resort include water sports and a waterslide, and a variety of restaurants and bars lay footsteps away. For more seclusion, find soft, white beaches that beg for bare feet and splashing in marbled blue-green waters at Taino Beach just east of Lucaya. The beach is also a short walk from the authentic Bahamian settlement of Smith’s Point. For those seeking local culture, outlying beachfront settlements and funky conch shacks make an intriguing introduction. — Chelle Koster Walton

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See the Shore Excursion Desk for details.

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Ports of call | Freeport

Island Highlights By Sara Churchville

Androsia Batik Cloth One of the artisanal prides of the Bahamas, Androsia is made on the small island of Andros and sold all over Freeport. The fabric is waxed, hand-dyed, cut and sewn at the island factory. The brightly colored fabric is decorated with stenciled shapes of shells, birds, fish and flowers. Conch The sweet meat of this mollusk, similar to clam, is used in various dishes in the Bahamas and elsewhere in the Caribbean. Conch chowder may remind you of Manhattan-style clam chowder, but there's nothing else like batter-fried conch fritters. Guava If you like jelly rolls, you’ll love the Bahamas’ signature dessert: guava pulp, flour, butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, all topped with a hard sauce of butter, eggs, sugar, vanilla and rum. If you can find guava pulp, you can make this at home.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Bright batik fabric; queen conch shell; guava, the start of something sweet; the local brew.

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PHOTOS BY: R. GINO SANTA MARIA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; ROBERT FREEMAN

Kalik Beer Locals take this Bahamas-brewed beer as seriously as any other culinary treasure of the islands. The name itself is mimicry of the sound of cowbells, an instrument in junkanoo bands. Though Heineken is a major investor in the firm, the beer — in original, light and higher-proof gold — is most popular on the islands.

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with Dancing Diamonds, Hersheyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kisses and much more! The finest gemstones like Emeralds, Rubies, Sapphires and Diamonds. Wide selection of Swiss & Fashion Watches Cigars, Ray-Ban and other fashion sunglasses

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SWIM WITH DOLPHINS At our facility or in the open ocean or participate in our close encounter

SHOP â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;TIL YOU DROP Largest selection of swimwear, resort wear and souvenirs in Freeport 4063L-R.indd 2

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DIVE INTO THE BLUE With our world renowned dive crew; explore wrecks, reefs and marine life

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE GOT IT ALL AT UNEXSO! Freeport, Grand Bahama

Next to Port Lucaya Marketplace find us on See your Shore Excursion Desk for Details

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Grand Bahama

NATURE TOURS E

xperience the natural beauty, history and culture of Freeport, Bahamas, through a variety of tours and attractions.

A leisurely 12-mile bike ride takes you along the shoreline, through a historic settlement and to a tropical garden for lunch. You will have time for a dip in the ocean at Junkanoo Beach Club and even a shopping stop at Port Lucaya Marketplace. Would you like to experience a pristine mangrove creek by kayak, swim and enjoy a picnic lunch on Gold Rock Beach — one of the Bahamas’ most spectacular beaches — and then follow your guide into the forest to observe native vegetation and birds? The Kayak, Nature and Beach Excursion will be the perfect choice for you. How about an adventurous ATV ride through forested terrain and along the Grand Lucayan Waterway, with breathtaking vistas over the turquoise ocean? This excursion allows you to spend time at Garden of the Groves and at Junkanoo Beach Club as well. Another exciting way to see the island is by driving your own Jeep in a convoy led by an experienced island guide. There will be many interesting stops of historic interest and natural beauty as well as time for lunch, a stroll in a tropical garden and a dip in the ocean. The Garden of the Groves is a lush tropical garden, dedicated in 1973 to Freeport’s founder, Wallace Groves. It is an informal garden with ponds, waterfalls and wildlife. Visit the historic chapel on the hill or walk the only spiritual Labyrinth in the Bahamas. Browse and buy authentic Bahamian souvenirs at the quaint shops. Relax for lunch or sip a cool Bahamian drink on the deck of the Garden Café overlooking the ponds and waterfalls. The Garden Cafe is one of the top restaurants on the island offering freshly grilled local delicacies, salads from the Garden’s own organic Aquaponic farm and its popular “Conch Burger” topped with the taste of fresh conch salad. Check with your Shore Excursion Desk for the popular Western Heritage Sightseeing and Snorkel Excursion as well as the Brewery, Perfume Factory and Sightseeing Tour.

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FREEPORT - BAHAMAS

The Junkanoo Beach Club

Jeep, Beach and Garden Excursion

Biking, Beach and Shopping Tour

ATV, Tropical Garden and Beach Adventure

Kayak, Nature and Beach Experience

The Tropical Garden of the Groves

SEE YOUR SHORE EXCURSION DESK FOR DETAILS

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Ports of call | Freeport

SHACKING UP AND CHOWING DOWN

A refreshing conch salad

More than a dozen open-air, no-need-for-shoes shacks populate Grand Bahama’s sandy shores. Here, local cooks chop up fresh conch, fry up the day’s catch and dispense cold Kalik beer and Bahama Mama rum cocktails like there’s no real world beyond their beaches. Yo u c a n s t a r t y o u r b e a c h s h a c k- h o p p i n g j u s t w e s t o f Lucayan Harbour, in the settlement of Eight Mile Rock, where a strip of lollipop-colored shacks known as Sunset Village spec i a l i z e s i n f r ie d c h ic ke n , s te w e d c onc h a nd t he c atc h of the day. Billy Joe’s, an old favorite in Lucaya, specializes in grilled conch. Roasted conch and Gully Wash cocktails star at Tony Macaroni’s on silky-sanded Taino Beach. Next door, in Smith’s Point, Outrigger Beach Club is the place to nosh and sip. In William’s Town, check out barefoot places with names like Bikini Bottom and Toad’s on the Bay. If you’re headed to the island’s East End, stop at Bishop’s Beach Club in High Rock for authentic cracked conch, barbecued ribs, broiled lobster, burgers and a superlative get-outta-town beach.

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By Chelle Koster Walton

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BLUEORANGE STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Big selection of 10kt and 14kt gold earrings, anklets, chains and more

TANZANITE EMERALDS RUBIES SAPPHIRES

All precious gemstones and large selection of silver jewelry

Goldylocks Jewelry

#1 Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport Bahamas * #1 International Bazar, Freeport Bahamas Tel: 242.351.6145 Circle One Mall / 242.373.5920 Port Lucaya CSR * International Guarantee * US Service Centre

SHOP â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;TIL YOU DROP Largest selection of swimwear, resort wear and souvenirs in Freeport Freeport, Grand Bahama, Next to Port Lucaya Marketplace

find us on Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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PHOTOS BY: TREE OF LIFE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; GRIGORY KUBATYAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; MICHAEL J. THOMPSON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; IDESIGN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Freeport

BATS TO BEACHES

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Kayaking through the mangroves; bats in a cave; belted kingfisher; a hummingbird hovers.

By Chelle Koster Walton

Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island contains the entire range of Bahamian ecology, from limestone caves where bats nest to mangrove tidal creeks and beautiful, secluded beaches. Twenty miles east of Freeport, along a lonely road lined with Caribbean yellow pines, the park encompasses 40 acres of land and three hiking trails. On the north side of the road, the trail leads to two caves you can climb down into — doorways to one of the longest mapped underground cave systems in the world. Archaeologists once discovered the remains of ancient Lucaya people in the Burial Mound Cave. Ben’s Cave is where you’ll find the bats, and it closes in June and July for nesting season. But they’re not the only unusual creatures here. A rare species of the crustacean class Remipedia, with no eyes or pigmentation, was discovered and exists only in Ben’s Cave. Across the road, one trail crosses a tidal creek popular 150

with kayakers. Birds are the most gregarious wildlife in this part of the park; look for great blue herons, green herons, hummingbirds, belted kingfishers and the Bahama yellowthroat. Winter is the best season for sightings, because birds are migrating and most plentiful. Mornings and low tide are the best time to catch them actively feeding. The Creek Trail boardwalk snakes through the mangroves to Gold Rock Beach — a good place for a swim and a picnic. The return Mangrove Swamp Trail is older and sometimes wetter, but reveals an entirely different environment of orchids and native shrubs. All in all, Lucayan National Park is the easiest way to access the “bush,” as locals call it, without the assistance of a native guide.

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Ports of call | Freeport

THE JEWELLERY BOX

Port Lucaya, Freeport, Grand Bahamas â&#x20AC;¢ 242.373.8319 152

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Ports of call | Galveston

GALVESTON

An island off the Texas coast south of Houston, Galveston offers 32 miles of beaches and a charming historic downtown.

Quick Guide Famed for: Victorian architecture — the city has one of the nation’s largest and best-preserved collections of the fancifully designed houses. It’s a Fact: Galveston’s 10-mile-long seawall protects the city from storms and is covered in miles of murals depicting underwater life.

The setting sun casts a glow on a home in Galveston. 154

CHRISTOPHER POE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Signature Souvenirs: A piece of art or sculpture from Gallery Row, between 21st and 23rd streets on Post Office Street.

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JO ANN SNOVER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Grand Cayman

Limestone forms the craggy edge of Smith Cove in Grand Cayman.

GRAND CAYMAN Once a sanctuary for plundering pirates and shipwrecked sailors, Grand Cayman is now a haven for nature lovers, scuba divers and pleasure-seeking visitors from around the world. The diving is especially good in the turquoise waters that surround this former British colony. Back on land, visitors busy themselves with shopping, dining or explorations of local history and nature.

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FUNTREKS

Stingray Encounter & Turtle Swim

This tour consists of the island’s two most famous attractions, where you snorkel with the stingrays and swim with the turtles.

All Inclusive Tiki Beach — Seven Mile Beach Getaway

An enjoyable and relaxing way in which to spend your day in Grand Cayman with family and friends, on world famous Seven Mile Beach! Children 5 and under are free and special child rates are available.

Dolphin Swim & Stingray City

Experience the fun of swimming with bottlenose dolphins and interacting with stingrays in this combination tour.

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Coral Gardens & Stingray Sandbar

Snorkel over the Coral Gardens Reef formation. Afterward, stop at the famous stingray sandbar and get up close and personal with the stingrays as you swim around.

Explore Cayman By Land & Sea

Experience the best that Grand Cayman has to offer, both above ground and beneath the sea.

Quick Guide Famed for: Seven Mile Beach, considered by expert sunseekers to be one of the Caribbean’s best and least-crowded stretches of sand. It’s a Fact: The Cayman Islands are home to people of more than 120 nationalities. Signature Souvenirs: Replicas of pirates, blue iguanas and the Caymans’ mascot, Sir Turtle. How to Get to Town: Take the ship’s tender to Royal Watler Pier, a 15-minute ride. Turn right from the pier to explore downtown.

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PORT VIEW

Yes, you can swim with stingrays in the waters of Grand Cayman.

Things We Love About Grand Cayman Grand Cayman is well-known as a hub of international banking and finance, but more visitors are lured here by its extensive natural and man-made attractions. It’s a favorite getaway for many Hollywood celebrities who are drawn by its serene beauty and the variety of things it offers to see and do. The centerpiece of the island is the magnificent Seven Mile Beach, a vast expanse of powdery-white sand. Famed for diving, the island offers more than 200 named sites. Other natural attractions include the Mastic Trail, a restored 200-year-old footpath that meanders through a 2-million-year-old forest and mangrove swamp in the heart of the island; Pedro St. James National Historic Site,

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a restored great house dating from 1780; and the 59-acre Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. You will take a tender into port, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore. At lunchtime, save room for dessert: a slice (or more) of Grand Cayman’s world-famous rum cake. Shopping is especially rewarding in the capital of George Town, home to some of the Caribbean’s best duty-free shopping — at attractive discounts. Great finds include black-coral jewelry, luxury watches, fine perfumes and gracious dinnerware. Seekers of unique souvenirs choose caymanite — a hard stone with striations ranging in color from pale pinkish beige to deep russet — found only in the Caymans. — Jim Thompson

PHOTOS BY: (STINGRAY) JO ANN SNOVER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (CORAL) CAYMAN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM; (FLAG) GARY YIM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (IGUANA) FRONTPAGE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, (PARROT) ELLIOTTE RUSTY HAROLD/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Grand Cayman

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WE HAVE SOME OF THE FRIENDLIEST LOCALS YOU WILL EVER MEET. ( THAT GOES FOR OUR PEOPLE TOO. )

Stingray City, Grand Cayman

Welcome to your new favourite port-of-call in the Caribbean. We hope you enjoy your stopover with us by making the most of every minute you have in the Cayman Islands. We look forward to having you back for a longer stay in the future, so that you can ďŹ nd your Caymankind in even more of our unique experiences.

visitcaymanislands.com

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Ports of call | Grand Cayman

Island Highlights By Sara Churchville

Black Coral Carvings Divers are thrilled to come across expanses of black coral at sites off Grand Cayman, and jewelry carved from the coral is one of the island’s most popular gift items. Cayman Islands Flag The islands’ flag is a pairing of Britain’s Union Jack with the Cayman Islands’ crest against a dark-blue background. At the top of the crest is a pineapple, representing the islands’ one-time dependence on Jamaica. Under it, a turtle, the national symbol of the Caymans, stands on a thatch rope — the manufacture of which was once a thriving industry on the islands. The Lion of England signifies the obvious ties to Britain, while the three green-and-gold stars on blue-and-white waves represent the three Cayman Islands and the sea. Grand Cayman Blue Iguana Like the Grand Cayman parrot, the blue Grand Cayman iguana (Cyclura nubila lewisi) is only found on the island. With its blue coloring, it should be easy to spot, but because it’s endangered and not very social, it may take some searching to locate one. A subspecies of the Cuban rock iguana, the blue iguana can grow to be as long as 5 feet. Grand Cayman Parrot Grand Caymanians once took in these loudly squawking birds as pets, but this practice is now illegal. About 4,000 Grand Cayman parrots, so-called because they are found nowhere else in the world, are still on the island. This green, red and white subspecies of the Cuban parrot is the island’s national bird.

FROM TOP: Black coral growing underwater; Cayman Islands flag; a rare blue iguana, also known as a Grand Cayman iguana; a Grand Cayman parrot.

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PHOTOS.COM

Ports of call | Grand Cayman

FROM PRIVATEERS TO MASTER FISHERMEN

Seagoing adventurers have long been drawn to the Caymans.

By Marjorie Klein

The wide beaches and cool caves of Grand Cayman echo with the rich history of its early inhabitants: turtles, crocodiles, pirates, sailors, soldiers, settlers and slaves. Beginnings Christopher Columbus first spotted the islands he called “Las Tortugas” on May 10, 1503, when his ship was blown off course from Panama to Hispaniola on his final trip to the New World. The three islands, so populated with tortoises that they looked like rock piles, became a way station for sailors to replenish their freshwater supply and stock up on turtle meat. Perhaps the presence of turtle on the menu resulted in the animals’ decline; by 1586, crocodiles had become so dominant that Sir Francis Drake, the first recorded English visitor, renamed the islands Caiman (the Carib word for “crocodile”), from which their present name Cayman is derived. The Cayman Islands’ population stayed the same — comprising primarily sailors and pirates — until Oliver

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Cromwell’s British army defeated Spain in 1655. The Treaty of Madrid brought both the Caymans and Jamaica under British rule and made Grand Cayman a destination for settlers. Rule, Britannia! The first influx of settlers arrived: immigrants from England, Holland, Spain and France, plus refugees from the Spanish Inquisition and deserters from Cromwell’s army. Privateers, the genteel name for pirates such as Sir Henry Morgan who had their governments’ permission to plunder ships — ostensibly to retrieve wealth stolen from their country — discouraged these early settlers, many of whom hightailed it back home. Blackbeard, as well as other pirates, found the caves, nooks and crannies of Grand Cayman to be the perfect

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Ports of call | Grand Cayman

hideout. Some pirates never made it to land, their ships having been lured onto the reefs by the beacon fires of the Caymanians, who strenuously resisted these invaders. By 1700, the first royal land grant in Grand Cayman signaled permanent settlement, followed by others throughout the island. The first recorded inhabitant was Isaac Bodden, grandson of the original settler, a soldier from Cromwell’s army for whom Bodden Town was named. Other districts can be traced back to that period of settlement as well; among them is Hog Stys, once the site of a pigpen the name of which — thankfully — was changed to George Town in the early 18th century in honor of King George III. In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht officially ended privateering (although freelance pirates continued to attack ships regardless), encouraging settlers to set up camp permanently and call Grand Cayman home. Many of these early settlers brought slaves with them to help farm crops such as cotton, which they exported, and corn, yams, plantains, melons, citrus fruit and sugarcane grown for their own consumption. An 1802 census shows 933 people, 545 of whom were slaves. Democracy Is Born Self-rule for the Caymans began on December 5, 1831, when a historic meeting of residents took place to form the first representative government, and elections were held. The Emancipation Act of 1833 brought an end to slavery on an island where slaves outnumbered whites 5 to 1. A Tourist Mecca Tourism and banking became Grand Cayman’s primary economic sources in the 20th century. On February 22, 1937, the Atlantic, the first cruise ship to bring tourists to the island’s shores, deposited 450 wealthy, mostly elderly passengers ashore for the day. During World War II, the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard operated bases on the island. When Bob Soto opened the first dive shop in 1957, Grand Cayman became the birthplace of recreational scuba diving. In 1962, the Caymans chose to remain a British Crown Colony, a decision that helped lead to the introduction of major banking legislation in 1966. The face of Grand Cayman has changed dramatically from that first sighting by Columbus; those turtles and caimans that once roamed the island now smile at us from a respectful distance on T-shirts.

Grand Cayman

Timeline

1503

Columbus spots islands he names “Las Tortugas.”

1655

The islands come under British rule.

1700

Permanent settlement begins with the first royal land grant.

1713-14 Piracy officially ends with the Treaty of Utrecht.

1831-33 1962

Caymanians opt to remain a colony of Britain.

Colorful coral reefs attract divers. 166

DUDAREV MIKHAIL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

First elections are held; slaves are emancipated.

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CAYMAN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

Ports of call | Grand Cayman

FREEDOM’S HOME

The Pedro St. James historic site has cultural artifacts on the grounds and throughout its rooms.

Known as “the birthplace of democracy in the Cayman Islands,” the Pedro St. James National Historic Site has been likened to the United States’ Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Caymanians met here on December 5, 1831, and voted to form their first elected parliament. They gathered at “the Castle” on May 3, 1833, to hear the proclamation ending slavery in the British Empire. The mansion was originally the private home of planter William Eden. The three-story landmark was built from quarried native rock in about 1780. It was the only survivor of a 1785 hurricane, making it the Caymans’ oldest stone structure. The family abandoned it in 1877, and it was put to 168

various uses until the Cayman government purchased it in 1991. Restoration work on Pedro St. James took seven years. Guests enter through the Visitors Center, which perches on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and surrounds a landscaped courtyard. The featured attractions include a 20minute multimedia theater presentation of Cayman history and a self-guided tour of the imposing great house.

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TORTUGA DUTY-FREE LIQUORS Â®

ESTABLISHED 1984

The Finest Rums and Liquors at the BEST DUTY-FREE PRICES in the Caribbean! Cruise ship Recommended and Guaranteed, WE DELIVER TO YOUR SHIP! VISIT OUR FACTORY AND BAKERY located at Tortuga Rum Ave.

Home of the world famous TORTUGA Rum & TORTUGA Rum Cake. Free Rum and Rum Cake samples at all our Grand Cayman locations.

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Ports of call | Grand Cayman

SNORKELING THE CAYMANS

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Swimming with fish in the sea always seems to be reserved for elite divers like Jacques Cousteau and his companions, or for island water babies who learned to swim before they could walk. But the Cayman Islands, long a mecca for divers and marine ecologists, welcomes snorkeling aficionados to swim with sea creatures in a crystal-clear aquamarine sea. Filled with miles of healthy coral reefs, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect home for a dazzling array of sea life. Slipping away from the constraining bonds of land, snorkelers on a soft ecotourism adventure will see the flower-like beauty of the sea anemone, revel in splendid displays of fan-shaped coral and be awed by reefs splashed with such vivid hues of orange, pink, violet, red and blazing yellow that might have been created by Picasso. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Richard Carroll

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Ports of call | Grand Cayman

A diver faces a bluespotted stingray.

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS

One of Grand Cayman’s most popular city visits isn’t to a city at all — at least not in the usual sense of the word. Meet the inhabitants of Stingray City and its neighbor, Stingray Sandbar. People are merely drop-in visitors who dive down to discover what makes this stretch of real estate so attractive to the rays. Fortunately, the area’s southern stingrays seem to relish all the attention. They certainly like being fed the handfuls of squid offered by cruise guests and other visitors. And they know the ropes. As soon as a tour-boat motor stops, a flotilla of rays gracefully glides onto the scene. From the deck of the boat, the saucer-shaped rays, which may reach 172

up to 6 feet across, can be seen approaching. Visitors have the choice of watching them from above the surface or jumping in the waist-high water and swimming beside the fierce-looking but gentle creatures. Before it became a popular tourist attraction, Stingray Sandbar served as a protected area where fishermen cleaned their catch en route to shore. The chance for a free lunch attracted the rays then, just as it does now.

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Ports of call | Grand Cayman

Shopping in Grand Cayman Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ultimate insider guide to whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port

TAG Heuer Calibre 8 watch

Sterling & Stone

This small boutique sells duty-free jewelry specializing in Caymanite and sterling silver. Also selling a range of gemstones, charm bracelets and stainless-steel styles. Caymanite jewelry fashioned by local artists. At the corner of Harbour Drive in the heart of Cayman dutyfree shopping.

Kabana Eden Collection butterfly pendant

Cayside Courtyard, Shedden Road, George Town 345-925-8955

Crown of Light Galaxy bracelet

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Discover the

adventure

Visit the Cayman Islands’ #1 land-based attraction. Meet the turtles, enjoy the wildlife, snorkel in our lagoon and splash down our water slide. It’s a full day of fun and adventure. Opening hours: Mon – Sat 8:00am – 4:30pm | Inquire about Sunday hours Book with your Shore Excursion Desk today! 786 Northwest Point Road, West Bay, Grand Cayman

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Ports of call | Grand Turk

FUNTREKS

Catamaran Sailaway, Beach & Snorkel

Experience a great combination of sailing aboard one of the most beautiful catamarans in the Caribbean, a white sand beach and extraordinary snorkeling. You’ll have a magical experience sailing along the crystal clear turquoise waters aboard the spacious catamaran.

Horseback Ride & Swim

Spend an afternoon embracing your outdoor spirit on this fun-filled horseback adventure!

All Inclusive Private Beach Break

A special day at the beach — enjoy a white sand beach, turquoise water and an island lunch at Grand Turk’s premier beach location. This all-inclusive package includes unlimited local beer and rum punch, fruit punch and sodas, a local lunch and a beach lounge chair and umbrella, plus one hour’s use of snorkel gear.

Home Sweet Home! Your Caribbean Retreat

Escape the crowds and enjoy Grand Turk’s greatest features: a beautiful beach and a private beach house. Come and be our guests as a select group of guests have the house as their own for the day. Read a book, bask in the sun, or snorkel or kayak on the clear blue waters. Enjoy some local drinks and local cuisine, our chef will prepare some local treats like conch salad for you to try — everything is included in this day package.

Ultimate Land & Sea

GRAND TURK Turks and Caicos is an idyllic archipelago of islands and cays with 230 miles of white, sandy beaches and some of the world’s most preferred dive sites. The main island is Grand Turk, where the capital, Cockburn Town, boasts pretty frame houses with gingerbread verandas.

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Discover Grand Turk by land and by sea on this action-packed adventure, the . Adrenaline High Wire Challenge & Zip. Navigate through the maze of ropes, rigs, ladders and zip lines at 45 feet above ground. Ride well-trained horses along scenic trails overlooking the beautiful aquamarine waters. Explore the island on Dune Buggy through the town and along the stunning coastline. Sail away to the perfect snorkeling spot. Jump in and get up close and personal with the vibrant underwater wildlife.

Quick Guide Famed for: Pristine beaches, thrilling scuba diving and pretty pink flamingos. It’s a Fact: After orbiting the Earth in 1962, astronaut John Glenn’s Friendship 7 space capsule splashed down off Grand Turk. Signature Souvenirs: Natural sea salt, seashell art and colorful postage stamps.

PHOTO BY: (VIEW) RAMUNAS BRUZAS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The waters off Grand Turk promise incredible diving.

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CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES

Ports of call | Half Moon Cay

Horseback riding is one of many activities on the island.

HALF MOON CAY Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of fun to be had at this island getaway in the Bahamas. Splash it up at the water park, enjoy a cocktail at the open-air Bahamian bar or shop at the craft market. Want more? Book a shore excursion to explore the island and the surrounding waters.

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FUNTREKS

Half Moon Cay Snorkel by Boat

Put on your snorkeling gear and bring your sense of adventure. Travel by boat to a site off the coast of Half Moon Cay. Get an up-close view into the crystal clear waters of the sparkling Caribbean. Snorkel from the boat in waters teeming with gloriously colored fish, anemones and coral.

Horseback Riding by Land & Sea

Saddle up for the horseback riding experience of a lifetime! Enjoy a great photo opportunity and panoramic view of Half Moon Cay and the surrounding Bahamian islands. Continue along the bay en route back to the corral where you will enjoy a refreshment while your horse is “dressed” for swimming in specially designed pad and rope halter (no saddle).

Stingray Adventure

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES

Enjoy an educational encounter with the southern stingrays that make Half Moon Cay their home.

Tropical Kayak Adventure

Join our island naturalist on a relaxing but invigorating kayak adventure on Bone Fish Lagoon. Kayak part of the lagoon that comprises over 1,400 square acres of protected habitat. See the numerous species of flora ranging from red mangroves to the ornamental silver buttonwood tree.

Aqua Trax Watercraft Adventure

Experience Half Moon Cay from the seat of your own Aqua Trax watercraft.

Quick Guide Famed for: Recreation and relaxation in this private paradise, also known as Little San Salvador Island. It’s a Fact: Half Moon Cay is 17 miles from the nearest island neighbor. Signature Souvenirs: Bahamian arts and crafts sold by local vendors.

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Ports of call | Key West

Key West is the center of the universe for those who fall under its spell.

KEY WEST

Located at the southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West — with its balmy weather and Bohemian atmosphere — is a free spirit that holds a special place in our hearts. How can you not love a place that has a party every day to celebrate the sunset?

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FUNTREKS

Key West Parasailing

This ride combines the thrills of offshore power boating with parachuting, ballooning and gliding. Guests ride in pairs and launch directly from the onboard flight deck, enjoying fantastic views of Key West and its beachfront while soaring hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

The 60-foot catamaran Fury takes guests to a coral reef in the waters off Key West, which teem with dolphins and flying fish. Instruction and snorkel equipment are provided, and refreshments are served on the way back to the ship.

FLORIDASTOCK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ultimate Key West Water Adventure

If you love action, this Ultimate Adventure tour delivers you 3.5 hours of excitement. Enjoy parasailing, jet skis, swimming, and water toys for a fun day on the water.

Nature Kayak Tour

Explore the amazing ecosystem of Key West from the seat of a kayak.

Quick Guide Famed for: Sunsets, the green flash (a special glint of light in the water at sunset) and Ernest Hemingway’s old haunts. It’s a Fact: President Harry S. Truman loved Key West so much, he chose the island to build his winter White House there. Signature Souvenirs: Key lime juice, conch shells and sunkentreasure replicas. How to Get to Town: Key West’s historic Old Town, with its many charming shops and attractions, is only a few blocks from the dock. It’s easy to reach on foot, which also happens to be the best way to explore. Old Town is split approximately in half by Duval Street, which leads to Mallory Square. Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Ports of call | Key West

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Mel Fisher

TREASURES Key West has an incredibly rich maritime heritage, including the most famous shipwreck-treasure find in history. The ship Nuestra Señora de Atocha was the Almirante, or admiral, of Spain’s Tierra Firme fleet. On Sept. 4, 1622, the fleet set sail from Havana, Cuba, heading back to Spain with an unprecedented amount of copper, silver, gold and priceless jewelry. Just days into the voyage, the fleet was struck by a massive hurricane and sank 35 miles off the coast of Key West. The Spanish attempted to salvage the Atocha for 70 years without success. Hundreds of years later, Mel Fisher’s search for the famed Atocha made international headlines as he uncovered the richest treasure find in history. So far the haul is valued at over $500 million, with hundreds of millions in treasure still to be found. Although it takes dedicated professionals to be successful in

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the salvage business, Mel Fisher’s Expeditions welcomes you to discover firsthand the fun, romance and adventure of treasure hunting, with no scuba-diving experience needed. To find and hold an artifact after it’s been on the ocean floor nearly 400 years sends tingles from the tips of your toes to the top of your head; the feeling is indescribable. You are encouraged to experience it for yourself. While in Key West, you can visit 200 Greene St. to learn more about joining the hunt for the Atocha and experiencing the adventure of a lifetime. Hold authentic shipwreck treasure in the palm of your hand and go home with your very own piece of history. As Mel Fisher always believed, today’s the day!

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Ports of call | Key West

PORT VIEW

Key West beckons.

Things We Love About Key West This picturesque enclave offers delights of many kinds, from its pastel-toned homes and shops to its offbeat sunset celebration, where colorful characters enliven the day in Mallory Square. Many visitors devote a good bit of their day to shopping on Duval Street and the network of charming routes that connect with it. Best buys include dazzling local art, tropical home accessories and hand-rolled Dominican cigars. Collectors of the unique are drawn to beautiful treasure-coin jewelry, made from authentic pieces recovered from old shipwrecks near the island. Key West has many historic stops, most notably the landmark home of writer Ernest Hemingway; the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens, honoring naturalist John 184

James Audubon; museums devoted to the shipwrecks and lore of the island’s past; and the Truman Annex, site of the winter White House during the presidency of Harry S. Truman. Families can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. One of the most popular mementos is a photograph snapped at the Southernmost Point, which notes Key West’s unique geographic status in the continental United States. For food and refreshment, the Historic Seaport is filled with colorful waterfront restaurants. The island’s signature Key lime pie stars on almost every menu, and souvenir bottles of tart Key lime juice are available for sale almost anywhere.

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Two Friends Patio Restaurant & Bar a Key West Icon since 1967 2016 Key West People’s Choice Awards winner for Best Bloody Mary. And nominated for Best Business, Best Overall Restaurant, Best Family Owned Business, Best Happy Hour, Best Breakfast, Best Fish Sandwich and Best Bartender.

The Best Daily Live Entertainment in the Southernmost City Happy Hour Daily 4–7 pm & Drink Specials 11am — 7 pm

Happy Hour Mango Mojito

Breakfast

Crab Cake Benedict

Lunch

Mahi-Mahi sandwich

Dinner

Lobster combo

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Ports of call | Key West

Island Highlights

Famous Writers Tennessee Williams and Ernest Hemingway lived here, and Key West still manages to lure many writers who are charmed by the city’s eccentricity. The written word is celebrated each winter with the Key West Literary Festival. Grand Entrance This is how you know you’ve arrived. Cross the Seven Mile Bridge, linking Marathon in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. Key West is about 40 miles farther on. First built in 1912, the bridge was replaced by the current span in 1982. Saloons Sloppy Joe’s, the infamous Hemingway hangout, is the quintessential saloon in a city where friendly spots for enjoying a cold beer on a warm night, often outdoors, are almost the raison d’être. The saloon names — Hog’s Breath, Green Parrot, Lazy Gecko — still evoke the area’s history of piracy, rum running and general Margaritaville-style lazing.

PHOTOS BY: (PIE) ANJELIKAGR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; FLORIDA KEYS TOURISM BOARD; (BRIDGE) PICTURIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (SALOON) DANIEL KORZENIEWSKI/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Key Lime Pie This cool, creamy, sweet and tart mixture of condensed milk, Key lime juice and egg yolks is folded into a graham cracker crust, baked, refrigerated until firm and served with a meringue topping or a dollop of whipped cream. Not to be confused with the green fruit you find in most parts of the country, the Key lime is small, yellow and very tart.

FROM TOP: Key lime pie; the Tennessee Williams House; the historic Seven Mile Bridge; Sloppy Joe’s, a popular gathering place.

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Ports of call | Key West

LOST AND FOUND

Row of cannons in Fort Zachary Taylor.

Many have come to Key West to start lost lives over and find their fortunes.

By John Anderson

This southernmost point on the map was the last stop for many a castaway and dreamer, and few ever looked back. Beginnings Spanish explorers first arrived on Key West in 1521 and dubbed the place Cayo Hueso, or Bone Island, due to the discovery of human bones supposedly found in mangrove clumps. But for centuries after, the area was largely left to its own devices. Eventually, settlers were drawn there for a number of reasons. Among the new residents were Bahamians known as conchs, who harvested the hardwood trees; Cuban fishermen; salty New Englanders; and marauding pirates who had been plundering ships in the Caribbean for years. Ceded to the United States in 1819, Cayo Hueso became anglicized and was soon known simply as Key West. In 1821, US businessman John W. Simonton bought the island for $2,000 and divided it into 188

four parts; he sold three to fellow businessmen John Fleming, John Whitehead and P.C. Greene — you’ll find streets named after them today — and kept one for himself. Simonton next convinced the US Navy that Key West would be an ideal base of operations for the northern Caribbean region. Thus, in 1823, following Lt. Matthew Perry’s assessment that desperados were a bigger problem than malaria and mosquitoes, the Navy sent in Capt. David Porter and his West Indies Anti-Piracy Squadron. However, after dispatching the pirates, the islanders found themselves under Porter’s military dictatorship until a court-martial finally rid the residents of both the pirates and Porter himself. The Richest Town in America In the 1800s, Key West was an industrious place, with fishing and sea turtle canneries as mainstays of the economy for decades. From 1830 until the Civil War, salt

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Ports of call | Key West

production was a huge industry as well; the island supplied much of the country’s salt. But by 1860, it was the fortunes made from shipwrecks on the coral reefs just 7 miles offshore that made Key West the richest US town per capita. People came from all over to bid on the salvaged bounty at the newly established customhouse. Millions of dollars’ worth of wreckage was being adjudicated on the island, supplying the fine furnishings and chandeliers found in local homes and the formal clothes people wore around town. With the building of the reef lighthouses in the late 1800s, the profitable wrecking business began to wane. Fortunately, two other businesses picked up the slack and kept Key West in the money: sponging and cigar production. Hundreds of skiffs patrolled the surrounding waters, harvesting millions of sponges from shallow seabeds; the sale of the sponges accounted for 90 percent of all sponges sold in the United States. At the same time, the cigar industry began to flourish when Cubans came to the island to escape their country’s revolution from Spain. By 1890, 129 cigar factories were in operation in Key West. The 20th Century and Beyond Key West was an isolated island accessible only by boat until Henry Flagler built his Overseas Railway in the early 1900s. Completed in 1912, the massive undertaking included one of the world’s longest bridges, which connected Key West to the mainland. While the rail business Flagler foresaw never materialized, another industry began to flourish in the 1920s with the passing of Prohibition: bootlegging. Newly rich smugglers from Key West supplied beer and rum from Cuba and whiskey from Nassau. This devil-may-care environment attracted the many writers who helped make Key West famous. Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams and a long list of Pulitzer Prize winners have called the island home at one time or another.

Key West

Timeline

1521

Spanish explorers arrive and name the island Cayo Hueso (Bone Island).

1819

Florida and the Keys are ceded to the United States.

1821

John Simonton buys Key West for $2,000.

1860

Key West becomes known as the wealthiest town in America.

1912

1982

In a humorous protest, Key West “secedes” from the United States and becomes the Conch Republic.

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Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railway is completed.

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Ports of call | Key West

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Flowers

OF THE SKY The 13,000-square-foot pavilion houses a glass-enclosed greenhouse, which is home to hundreds of free-flying butterflies and exotic, colorful birds. The conservatory is a top-rated attraction in Key West, ranking No. 2 on Trip Advisor and winning the People’s Choice Award four times. Visitors can examine the butterfly world with a wall-size map that identifies butterflies by country of origin, provides illustrated information on butterfly anatomy and physiology and offers a detailed look at

the incredible Monarch migration. Guests also get a rare close-up view of a variety of caterpillars feeding and developing on their host plants. The conser vator y offers a journey through a collection of flowering plants, colorful birds, cascading waterfalls and trees that set the stage for the magnificent “flowers of the sky.” View 50 to 60 varieties of butterflies, over 25 bird species and some 3,500 plants that share the tropical, climate-controlled environment of the greenhouse.

PHOTOS BY: (BUTTERFLIES) KEY WEST BUTTERFLY AND NATURE CONSERVATORY.

Excite your senses and expand your mind at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

The final point of interest is the specially designed display nursery, offering a unique look at the miracle of metamorphosis. Witness butterflies and moths develop, emerge in their adult form and get released into their idyllic environment. Wings of Imagination, the conservatory's art gallery, offers the works of artist and founder Sam Trophia. The gift shop also offers a wide assortment of butterfly and nature-related items.

UARE MALLORY SQ

, T S E W Y KE RIDA

Cruise Ship Port

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BORN IN KEY WEST - SINCE 1971

MILE MARKER 0

Experience our Island with a FREE Salt Scrub Demo! . 1075 Duval St. Duval Square Key West, FL 33040 305-517-6365 . 416 Greene St. Key West, FL 33040 305-735-4927 192

HERNTMOST SOUTPOIN NAVAL AIRON STATI FOLLOW US @KEYWESTALOE

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Walk Among Hundreds of Living Butterflies and Colorful Birds

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Ports of call | Key West

Key West’s

CUBAN CONNECTION

Key West is closer to Cuba than any other US city — both geographically, at less than 100 miles, and culturally.

A New Home Cubans began emigrating to Key West in the early 1830s, establishing a strong presence and bringing with them their culture, their traditions and a thriving cigar industry. They continued through two revolutions: in 1868, when thousands came to work in Key West’s thenflourishing cigar factories, and in 1959, when millions began fleeing political oppression by the Communist dictator Fidel Castro. Cuba’s proximity became a sobering reality during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, when US President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev narrowly averted what may have been the closest the world has come to nuclear war since World War II. Memories Remain Key West has several tangible reminders of its Cuban past. The San Carlos Institute, on Duval Street, was founded in 1872 to preserve Cuban culture and promote freedom. Revolutionary leader José Martí ignited passion in 1892 with a stirring speech from the institute’s balcony. Still revered today, Martí is honored with a memorial in Bayview Park. A monument to the USS Maine, located at the historic cemetery in the center of Old Town, is another important link with Cuba. The monument is dedicated to the more than 260 men who lost their lives when the battleship, which sailed from Key West, exploded in Havana Harbor in 1898, touching off the Spanish-American War. — Jim Thompson CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Salsa and merengue dancers; a Latin bongo drummer; arroz con pollo. 194

PHOTOS BY: (PEOPLE DANCING) ARENA CREATIVE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (PERCUSSIONIST) ROXANA GONZALEZ/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (CUBAN DISH) ROXANA GONZALEZ/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The rhythms of Cuban music in Key West night spots pulsate with a beat born in Africa and influenced by jazz, Big Band, reggae, salsa and hip-hop. Cuban food — fusing Spanish, African, Caribbean and even Chinese cuisine — is also easy to find. Stop for a cup of Cuban coffee or café con leche. Dine on sweet fried plantains, black beans, arroz con pollo or a Cuban sandwich. In Key West, you don’t have to look far for Cuban music, cuisine and culture.

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Ports of call | Key West

A marker notes Key West’s status as the southernmost point in the continental United States.

Conch If You

LOVE KEY WEST

The Florida Keys are home to two distinctly different varieties of conch (pronounced “konk”).

Rebellion and Reunion Residents of the Keys still call themselves citizens of the Conch Republic, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in April 2012. Spurred by a Border Patrol checkpoint on the main road in and out of the Keys, which caused traffic jams and headaches for islanders and residents alike, Keys residents “seceded” from the Union and founded the Conch Republic in 1982. They elected a Cabinet and declared war on the United States — and immediately surrendered and requested $1 billion in foreign aid. The Conchs returned to the Union with no ill will, of course, and those who celebrate the annual Conch Republic Independence Day do so with their tongues planted firmly in their cheeks.

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JORG HACKEMANN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

There’s the conch, a mollusk with sweettasting meat similar to that of a clam. It’s batter-fried in fritters, stewed in chowder or steamed and eaten in salad. The queen conch is the largest occupant of the pretty pink-and-white shell and a popular collectors’ item. However, keep in mind that it’s illegal to take queen conch without a license in most US waters. Then there’s the Conch, proud human inhabitants of the Keys archipelago. You could look it up: This definition is even listed in the dictionary.

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Ports of call | Key West

NO EXCUSES

NEEDED Not that it needs one, but Key West has plenty of reasons to celebrate. Sunsets, for one. Late in the afternoon, visitors and locals flock to Mallory Square to be entertained by jugglers, mimes, animal trainers and musicians while applauding the sun as it sinks into the Gulf of Mexico. Around Halloween time, the costume party is raised to high art in Key West’s very own Fantasy Fest, when lavish floats and outrageously dressed (or undressed) revelers parade down the streets until the wee hours of the morning. Most visitors don’t resist the urge to stop at one of Duval Street’s famous bars. Key West was a favorite watering hole of Ernest

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“Papa” Hemingway, one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. Key West honors its Papa each July with Hemingway Days. Literary tours, theatrical events and a fishing tournament pay tribute to Hemingway, as does the Running of the Bulls, a simulation of the event in Pamplona, Spain, which Hemingway helped make famous. The centerpiece of the week is the Ernest Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Fun and games are not limited to dry land. The waters surrounding Key West teem with world-class game fish pursued by anglers in fierce tournaments throughout the year.

A band plays during the sunset celebration.

MR. TOBIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Every Day’s a Party

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Ports of call | Mahogany Bay

A perfect beach awaits in Mahogany Bay.

FUNTREKS

Maya Key Private Island Snorkeling With Lunch

Escape to your private island for the day. Maya Key is your 11+ acre oasis of fun and relaxation. Your adventure begins with a 10-minute bus ride to the ferry for a short scenic boat trip across the bay to Maya Key. Enjoy the natural setting of pristine beaches, lush gardens, tropical waters and the Meso-American coral reef. Other experiences include our animal rehabilitation and rescue facility

Jolly Roger Catamaran Sailing & Snorkel with Lunch

Mahogany Bay, on the serene isle of Roatán, is famed for its splendid diving. Some 95 percent of the Caribbean’s known corals are found here. It’s also a delight for those who prefer to stay dry, offering butterfly and iguana reserves and colorful botanical gardens.

Quick Guide Famed for: Housing part of the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean Sea, with easily accessible dive sites offering visibility from 50 to 100 feet. It’s a Fact: Local wildlife includes the basilisk, which is often called the Jesus lizard because it can run across water. Signature Souvenirs: Carved wooden designs and ceramics hand-painted by Lenca natives.

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Top 10 Best of Roatán

This is the only tour that delivers Roatán’s top 10 attractions!

Mayan Princess All Inclusive Resort With Open Bar

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a perfect beach getaway! Mayan Princess is located on a stretch of Roatan’s finest beach, where you will treat yourself to a day in paradise.

Canopy Tour & Tabyana Beach

Glide from the ridge of the mountain into beautiful Gumbalimba Park, followed by some beach time

PHOTOS BY: TONY MORAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (UNDERWATER) JOHN A. ANDERSON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

MAHOGANY BAY

This is your perfect shore excursion for Isla de Roatan! We offer incredible value with a free open bar, free digital photographs of your tour and even free local Honduran currency to take home as a souvenir! Join us aboard one of our spacious catamarans for hours of fun in the sun as we cruise along the coast of this gorgeous island we call home.

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MICHAEL J. PALMER

Ports of call | Montego Bay

MoBay, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s known, shimmers under the Caribbean sky.

MONTEGO BAY In this exuberant resort area, the streets are something of a local theater, and the beaches buzz with vacationers frolicking in the sun. But the best of MoBay, as the port is known, was here long before vacationers discovered the place. As at most everywhere else on the island, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find warm, open-hearted people eager to share their culture.

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FUNTREKS

The Big 3: Sky Explorer, Canopy & Bobsled

This tour combines the Sky Explorer chairlift, the Jamaica Bobsled and a zipline canopy in one adventurous tour at Mystic Mountain. After riding the chairlift 700 feet up the mountain, participants ride the bobsled down the mountain, covering 3,280 feet of twists and turns. They then get an orientation and equipment and fly across the jungle canopy on a series of cables and pulleys. Lunch is included.

All Inclusive Family Beach Resort Getaway

This all-inclusive five-star resort is located in the northeast area of the island, surrounded by white-sand beaches where a wide range of services are offered.

Bobsled Jamaica & Dunn's River Falls

Enjoy three of the most popular attractions in Ocho Rios — the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls, the Sky Explorer chairlift and Jamaica Bobsled — on this comprehensive adventure!

MICHAEL J. PALMER

Dolphin Swim & Doctor’s Cave Beach

The tour begins with a narrated journey along Jamaica’s coastline to Dolphin Cove Negril. After a brief orientation, guests interact with dolphins in the water and experience the thrill of riding the creatures; they may even get a kiss or two. Visitors then go to Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay.

Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

Quick Guide Famed for: Plantation houses, jerk shacks and golf courses. It’s a Fact: When Columbus sailed into Montego Bay in 1494, he called it the Gulf of Good Weather.

A state-of-the-art catamaran takes guests on a ride to either Athol or Rose Island reef for an afternoon of snorkeling and sea exploration. The 82-foot sleek ocean voyager allows for a relaxing ride to and from the reef with fellow passengers. After donning gear and a life vest, guests descend into the clear waters. On the return, they can enjoy refreshing complimentary rum or fruit punch.

Signature Souvenirs: Jamaica rum, jerk sauce and Blue Mountain coffee. How to Get to Town: Montego Bay’s downtown and shopping area is about 2 miles from the pier. There are two ways to get there: by jumping in a taxi or taking an all-day shuttle that stops at all the important sites in town, including the City Center Shopping Center.

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COL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Montego Bay

PORT VIEW

Doctor’s Cave Beach

Things We Love About Montego Bay Montego Bay scores a hole-in-one with travelers in search of world-class golf, great shopping and even ghost stories. None of MoBay’s photogenic great houses are as popular among visitors as Rose Hall, said to still be haunted by the ghost of the murderous Annie “the White Witch” Palmer. The Rose Hall area hits all three pursuits. Besides phantasmic Annie, it is well known for its championship golf courses and delightful shopping at The Shoppes at Rose Hall and Half

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Moon Shopping Village. Both tempt travelers with jewelry, Jamaica rum and lignum vitae wood carvings made from the wood of Jamaica’s national tree. The coolest spot is downtown’s Doctor’s Cave Beach for a swim followed by a taste of Jamaica’s famed jerk chicken and pork. Enjoy this treat with sweet festival bread and a cup of the island’s famous Blue Mountain coffee, and you may have a true taste of paradise. — John Bigley and Paris Permenter

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Island Highlights By Sara Churchville

Jamaican National Flag “The sun shineth, the land is green and the people are strong and creative,” is the symbolic meaning of the flag. The black triangles on each side represent the strength of the people; the green triangles at the top and bottom, the lushness of the land; and the gold diagonal cross, sunlight and wealth. The flag was first hoisted in 1962, the year Jamaica declared independence from Britain. Doctor’s Cave Beach Tourism in Jamaica essentially began at this beach in the early 20th century, when wealthy North American and English bathers were attracted by its purported curative mineral springs, lapping waves and constantly warm temperature. The doctor in question was Alexander James McCatty, who began a private bathing club accessible only by cave. Today, the cave, the club and the doctor are gone, but the beach remains a tourist attraction.

Red Stripe Beer Few can claim to have left the island without trying this nationally produced beer at least once. Islanders swear by it as a way of cooling down after a meal of curried goat, jerk chicken or the national dish of akee and saltfish.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Jamaican flag; Doctor’s Cave Beach; delicious soursop ice cream; locally brewed Red Stripe beer.

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PHOTOS BY: (FLAG) DAVID N MADDEN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BEACH) COL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (ICE CREAM) ELENAKOR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BEER) GREENWOOD GREAT HOUSE

Soursop Ice Cream Made from soursop purée, ginger, lime juice, vanilla and condensed milk, soursop ice cream is one of the most popular desserts in Montego Bay. The yellowish fruit from which the purée is made is sometimes called guanabana.

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IGNITE SOMETHING O N LY T H E P E R F E C T C U T C A N U N L E A S H A DIAMONDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BRILLIANCE.

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H E A R T S O N F I R E S T O R E S , A U T H O R I Z E D R E TA I L E R S , H E A R T S O N F I R E . C O M

Shoppes at Rose Hall | Montego Bay Island Village Plaza | Ocho Rios Historic Port of Falmouth | Falmouth 876.953.4600 jewelsandtime.com

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Ports of call | Montego Bay

A Plantation

PAST By Marjorie Klein

WALTER QUIRTMAIR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Sugarcane field.

Like many other Caribbean ports, Montego Bay looks back on a past formed by a plantation economy and marked by adventure, rebellion and ghost stories — a tale that usually begins with Christopher Columbus. Beginnings In 1494, when Columbus first sailed into what is now “Montego” Bay, he named it “El Golfo de Buen Tiempo,” or Fair Weather Bay. The name Montego evolved from the Spanish word for “lard,” when the bay was known as “Bahía de Manteca,” or Lard Bay, because it was the export point for lard produced from roaming herds of wild hogs hunted by the settlement’s Spanish inhabitants. Sadly, the native Taíno people (also known as the Arawak), who had inhabited this region since A.D. 600, disappeared after 80 years of Spanish occupation, decimated by the diseases contracted from their conquerors. 210

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Ports of call | Montego Bay

The British Occupation In 1655, Spain relinquished Jamaica to Britain, surrendering with little resistance and leaving almost no evidence of its occupation. Founded in 1671, St. James was one of the poorest parishes, due to a scarcity of real towns. There were few inhabitants, and there was little commerce besides lard production. The fortunes of the parish turned when plantation owners began bringing slaves from Africa to work their sugar crops, and the sugar economy boomed. By the end of the 18th century, Montego Bay was a bustling port city; 150 ships arrived annually, importing slaves and supplies and exporting sugar. In 1720, Capt. Jonathan Barnett subdivided a portion of his sugarcane fields and created Charles Town. Merchants and planters became wealthy and built elaborate homes, one of which became the setting for the most famous legend in the parish: The White Witch of Rose Hall.

Montego Bay

Timeline

1494

Columbus sails into Montego Bay.

1655

The British conquer Spanish occupants.

1671

St. James Parish is founded.

1770

Rose Hall is built.

1795

Fire destroys the town.

1831

Jamaican folklore dancers. 212

ANDREW PARK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Sharpeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Rebellion occurs.

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PRIMAVER A COLLECTION

Montego Bay: Shoppes at Rose Hall

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PHOTOS BY: JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD; JESSICA THOMAS; GREENWOOD GREAT HOUSE

Ports of call | Montego Bay

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Rose Hall great house; Annie Palmer’s bedroom in Rose Hall; Greenwood great house ballroom.

MoBay’s

GREAT HOUSES Jamaica’s second-largest city boasts a number of great houses, sprawling plantation homes dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when the area served as a primary port for the export of sugar and bananas. Today the main remnants of this industr y are the magnificent homes of the prosperous sugar barons. Rose Hall is one of the Caribbean’s most famous great houses. Situated on a hillside 10 miles outside Montego Bay, this mansion dates back to 1770 and has been restored to its former splendor. Many legends surround Rose Hall’s early mistress, Annie Palmer, the notorious, voodoo-practicing White Witch. Annie purportedly murdered her three husbands, numerous lovers and anyone who got in her way. 214

A tour guide will gladly provide the gory details. After your tour, relax in Annie’s Pub — where Annie kept “the dungeons” — and sample a drink called the Witch’s Brew in the eerie ambience. The ownership of Greenwood, on the same hillside, but 4 miles further on, is traced back to relatives of English poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The house still contains many of the Browning family’s original books, letters, musical instruments, furniture and other household items. Visitors can also walk around the grand verandas offering views of the sea. — Marty Leshner

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Montego Bay: Shop 6, Shoppes of Rose Hall Tel: 876-953-2254 Email:Customerservice@theroyalshop.com

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ROYAL SHOP GIA and EGL certified Diamonds.

Recommended and Guaranteed by Major Cruise Lines.

Montego Bay Cruise Terminal Tel: 876-953-2254 Email:Customerservice@theroyalshop.com

10/1/15 3:52 PM

Ports of call | Montego Bay

A TEETH-TANGLING TIME by JoAnn Milivojevic

It’s a fruit that delights all the senses. When ripe, it mimics the setting sun, turning a scarlet-golden hue, and its sweet fragrance scents an entire room. Its slippery-soft texture and honey-peachy flavor is heaven in your mouth. fingernails. Mission impossible. I managed to loosen a few, but seemingly hundreds were embedded. The effect was like a stubborn popcorn kernel stuck between each one of your teeth. Images of dental floss and toothpicks danced in my head. Ugh. Nigel caught my eye from across the boat. I grinned at him, careful not to reveal my pearly whites for fear of exposing the mango threads that dangled from my teeth like dreadlocks. In my hand dripped the culprit that stole my smile. The 6-foot-4, 250-pound Nigel ambled across the deck. “Le’ me show you how to eat mango de island wey,” he whispered. He picked one up and began to knead it slowly. “You roll it round and round,” he instructed, “mash it up good.” A mango the size of a grapefruit looked more like an orange in his large, calloused palms. He bit the thin skin, peeled back a sliver and sucked out the juice. He handed me the fruit and I sipped the sweet nectar. Voilà! Oh joy, oh rapture, oh sunset in my mouth. I could now have my mango and eat it too!

PHOTOS BY: ELXENEIZE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; MAKS NARODENKO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

It’s the mango. But beware! If you don’t know how to eat fresh mango, you could get tangled up in more than you bargained for. My affair with the mango began during a gentle sailing excursion in the Caribbean. Though melt-in-your-mouth a mango may be, many varieties are riddled with long fibers that catch and cling between your teeth. Biting into a mango, the way you would a peach, is no way to eat this fruit. It’s like eating a peach filled with hair. But before I could turn my back on the scrumptious fruit, I was duly rescued by Nigel, a Caribbean-born able-bodied landscaper. He taught me how to eat mango “de island wey.” Under a powder-blue sky, warm breezes propelled our sailboat from one small island to its nearby sister island. The crew had brought along a variety of island produce, including mangoes. I had just eaten my first one. The sweet juice stuck to my hands, the honey-peachy taste lingered on my lips, and the tangling fibers invaded my teeth. My tongue pulled furiously at the threads. I tried to be lady-like and discreetly pick at the fibers with my

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Ports of call | Montego Bay

Shopping in

Montego Bay Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

Hearts on Fire Beloved pendant

Alex & Ani Stackable set

Technicolor

TEMPTATIONS If a pickled parrot lands next to a hummingbird, would you find they are closer to a big bamboo or to a dirty banana? Whichever one you answered — you’re absolutely right. Pickled Parrot, Hummingbird, Big Bamboo and Dirty Banana are all colorful Jamaican tropical drinks. What these concoctions have in common are tropical fruit juice, plus Jamaica rum or Tia Maria. For a Purple Rain drink, just mix vodka, Blue Curaçao, fruit syrup, lime juice and grenadine. It’s No Problem

blends fruit juices with coconut rum and crème de banana. Here’s a simple recipe dating from the heyday of the sugar plantations: “sour, sweet, strong, weak.” The translation? Mix one part lime juice, two parts sugar, three parts rum and four parts fruit juice (your choice). For Pur ple R ain without the haze or Pickled Parrot without the punch, skip the “strong” kick. Then see if you can find the real hummingbird near that big bamboo. — Ginger Dingus

Shinola The Gomelsky watch

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PHOTOS BY: BOULE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; CREPESOLES/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

TrueLove Diamonds Angelika ring

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AND JAMAICA

For nearly 30 years, Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash, made the Cinnamon Hill great house their home away from home. Surrounded by tropical beauty, the Cashes enjoyed peace, privacy and the restorative nature of the island. “Jamaica has saved and renewed me more times than I can count,” the late, legendary musician wrote in his autobiography. Cash praised the down-to-earth atmosphere of the countryside, which he compared to his childhood home. The Nashville star gave back to Jamaica as well. Starting in the early 1970s, Cash and his wife worked to establish an SOS Children’s Village for orphaned and abandoned children in

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Barrett Town. The duo financed the first family home at the village by performing concerts at the nearby Rose Hall Great House to raise funds for the project. Cash also wrote “The Ballad of Annie Palmer,” inspired by the supposed haunting of Rose Hall by its voodoo-trained mistress. All profits from the song were donated to the children’s home. Today the connection between Cash and the Children’s Village lives on. One of Jamaica’s premier musicians, Abdel Wright, who has shared the stage with U2’s Bono, grew up at the SOS Village, where he often saw Cash perform in concert. — John Bigley and Paris Permenter

PHOTOS BY: (JOHNNY CASH) CATWALKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; OPPOSITE PAGE) JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD.

Johnny Cash grew up a country boy, sang about country life, made it big in country music and, when it was time for a little R&R, turned again to the country — in the hills near Montego Bay.

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A STICKY WICKET Cricket comes across as an utterly preposterous game to those who aren’t in the know. But to the knowledgeable, cricket is nothing of the sort. It is the national sport of Jamaica and mirrors the essence of life in this former British colony. The game has vague similarities to American baseball. But cricket games are long — and that is a real understatement. A cricket match can last 30 hours spread over five or six days, with breaks for lunch, tea and restroom visits. Given the time span of typical cricket matches, scores can range from 200 to 500 runs per team. On rare occasions, teams have tallied more than 1,000 runs in two innings. Largely because of the prowess of Jamaican cricket players, the West Indies has dominated the sport since the mid-1970s. Jamaicans at all levels of society love their cricket. When there are no matches at home, important test matches across the sea bring the entire island to a near standstill. Ears are glued to radios. Parties begin early and continue all night because of the time difference. — Deborah Williams

Cricket players.

PHOTOS BY: (JOHNNY CASH) CATWALKER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; OPPOSITE PAGE) JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD.

We carry a beautiful and extensive collection of

Souvenirs, T-Shirts, Usain Bolt shirts, Bob Marley shirts, Island wear, Crystal and Island Jewelry Swimwear, Toys, Outfits, Gifts galore

Shoppes at Rose Hall # 10

Montego Bay, Jamaica Tel: 876 953-3236 e-mail: aanchall@hotmail.com

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Ports of call | Montego Bay

Edible

STARS

Irresistible Slices of Carambola By Toni Crane

The exotic-tasting carambola fruit originated in China, where the tree is still grown as both an ornament and a fruit. The Portuguese introduced the tree to Brazil, and from there it found its way to the Caribbean. But some varieties are much tarter than others. Carambola contains ascorbic acid and oxalic acid: the more oxalic acid, the tarter the fruit. When using the tarter variety, the cook can trim away the ribs, where most of the oxalic acid lies, without spoiling the star shape. The crisp, juicy, yellow flesh, which has a lemony-apple flavor, can be eaten raw, but the fruit tends to be more delicious cooked and served with fish or made into jellies or desserts. The carambola is difficult to produce commercially because it needs to ripen on the tree and spoils very quickly once picked. However, carambola trees can be found in many backyard gardens in the Caribbean, and the fruit is now available in the produce markets of many cities in the United States. Try it — the pretty shape will add to the appeal of your dinner-party table.

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The spreading carambola tree normally grows to a height of about 30 feet. Its light-green, feathery leaves close at night and open again in the morning; they also close up during high winds. The small, pinkish flowers, which have a pleasant fragrance, usually grow directly out of the trunk or main branches. These are followed by the striking, bright-yellow-orange, waxy fruits, which give the carambola tree the appearance of a stumpy yellow cucumber. Carambola is popular among chefs throughout the world for the unique star-shaped pieces obtained by cutting the fruit in slices. That’s why the fruit is also called star fruit. All varieties of carambola appear much the same, up to about 5 inches long with five distinctive ribs running the length of the fruit that turn brown as the fruit ripens.

The pretty carambola yields star-shaped fruit. 222

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MAKE VACATION A PIECE OF CAKE Available throughout the Caribbean. We Ship Worldwide. Proudly Baked in Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Bahamas.

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Ports of call | Nassau

A lighthouse overlooks the entrance to Nassau Harbor.

NASSAU The focal point of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, has always been the harbor, which has lured gangs of buccaneers, bootleggers and various other wily adventurers over the years. Beyond the harbor are many more delights: brightly painted buildings, intriguing history and alluring shopping, for starters.

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FUNTREKS

Private Island Beach Day with BBQ Lunch

Take in the aqua-blue waters of the Bahamas at Balmoral Island Beach; your deluxe experience includes transportation, beach chair and a BBQ Burger lunch. The luxurious island experience features four bars, an indoor food venue with specialty coffee, a plunge pool and a pristine whitesand beach.

Atlantis Aquaventure Full Day with Lunch

Carnival guests may explore the Caribbean’s largest water-themed attraction. The 141-acre waterscape of pools, water coasters, body slides and rivers holds over 20 million gallons of freshwater and seawater and is home to more than 50,000 sea creatures. Shopping and casino gaming are also available, and the tour includes lunch.

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Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

A sleek catamaran takes guests to lush coral gardens filled with colorful tropical fish. Upon arrival at the snorkel spot, participants get an orientation and may then explore the reef, with time to lounge on the deck and take in the serene view. The return trip includes complimentary lemonade.

Private Island Dolphin Swim & Beach Day

An incredible dolphin experience you will cherish for a lifetime! A unique opportunity to free-swim with dolphins on a beautiful private island.

Quick Guide Famed for: Pink-hued buildings, Junkanoo revelers and pirate lore. It’s a Fact: American rebels briefly occupied the British port after the two-day Battle of Nassau in 1776. Signature Souvenirs: Local crafts from the Straw Market.

Tropical ATV Adventure & Beach

ATV along the trails that wind through the tropical forests and breathtaking natural shoreline at Clifton Heritage Park, home to Nassau’s most beautiful scenery. You will experience a variety of trails, from silky smooth beachfront trails to rough and rugged forest trails and palm-laden jungle trails, as you are guided on your ATV to explore the park’s many features.

How to Get to Town: It takes almost no time to reach the center of Nassau and its many shops and attractions — it’s all just a short walk from the pier.

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Ports of call | Nassau

PORT VIEW

Colorful homes line Nassau’s waterfront.

Things We Love About Nassau Slip on your walking shoes if you plan to get to know the spirit and culture of the Bahamas in one day. If you’d rather save your feet, or want to add an element of romance to your visit, hire a horse-drawn surrey ride from the dock. Near the dock, you’ll pass all of Nassau’s most important and impressive government buildings, churches and monuments. Some of downtown’s historic buildings house specialty museums, such as the thought-provoking Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation at the old slave marketplace, and The Balcony House Museum,

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believed to be the Bahamas’ oldest wooden structure. Families will want to stop at the interactive Pirates of Nassau Museum. Downtown’s Bay Street shopping area offers everything from duty-free jewelry and perfume, to the vibrant work of local artists. For the wares at the Straw Market, you’ll need cash if you want to bargain. Among the islanders’ favorite local secrets found on West Bay Street is Arawak Cay, a collection of casual and colorful eateries and shops where fresh conch salad prepared ceviche-style is the specialty and made to order before your very eyes. — Chelle Koster Walton

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ALWAYS AMAZING Atlantis holds a lifetime of spectacular memories. Only at Dolphin Cay can you get up close to playful dolphins and friendly sea lions. Enjoy a chance to Snorkel the Ruins of Atlantis, or take the Discover Atlantis Tour, a journey through iconic attractions and thrilling ocean life. And at Aquaventure, one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most amazing water parks, every day is filled with non-stop fun and adventure. Atlantis. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no such thing as too much amazing.

To book one of these once-in-a-lifetime excursions, visit your Shore Excursions Desk.

Deep Water Swim Foot Push For ages 6 and up.

Splashers Kids Pool

DOLPHIN CAY MARINE HABITATS

The Rapids River

Sea Lion Interaction

Shallow Water Interaction Free for kids ages 3 and under; if accompanied by a paying adult. Proof of age required.

Atlantis is proud to be accredited by:

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Ports of call | Nassau

Shopping in

Nassau

Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

MARCHING FLAMINGOS Almost everyone has seen marching horses and marching elephants. But marching flamingos? You can see them yourself every day at Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre, a cool retreat amid the bustle of Nassau. Audiences wait in eager expectation of the arrival of the more than a dozen flamingos trained to spread their wings and march on command, responding to the voice of their trainer. All spectators are invited to enter the show arena after the performance for a close-up encounter with the amazing pink birds. Animal lovers can also see a meerkat family as well as parrots, iguanas, lemurs, monkeys, sloths and even kinkajous. — Deborah Williams

Korite Column set

Pink flamingos.

Safi Kilima Tanzanite oval ring

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Bulova Precisionist Chronograph

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PARADISE ISLAND STRAW MARKET

FORT CHARLOTTE STRAW MARKET FORT CHARLOTTE PLEASE VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS:

Downtown Straw Market - Woodes Rogers Wharf/Bay Street Paradise Island Straw Market - Paradise Island Fort Fincastle Straw Market - Fort Fincastle Fort Charlotte Straw Market - Fort Charlotte Pompey Straw Market - Cable Beach

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios beckons visitors to its verdant shore.

OCHO RIOS Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural beauty is evident at every turn in the road. In Ocho Rios, rivers rush down mountains covered in thick foliage, the sea laps golden shores and tropical flowers accent every view.

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FUNTREKS

Tranopy Adventure

The Sky Explorer chairlift, the Jamaica Bobsled ride and a zip-line adventure are combined in this triple-threat outing to Mystic Mountain. The chairlift takes riders up 700 feet to the top of the mountain, where they get in the bobsled and plunge down 3,280 feet of twisting track. Back at the top, they get a safety orientation and fly through the jungle canopy on a series of cables and pulleys.

Horseback Ride & Swim with Dunn’s River Falls

Guests saddle up for a ride along the coastline overlooking the ocean. At Chukka Beach, they unsaddle for a bareback horse ride along the Caribbean Sea. After visiting the gift shop, they climb up 600-foot-high Dunn’s River Falls.

Canopy Adventure & Dunn’s River Falls with Lunch R. GINO SANTA MARIA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

A series of high platforms and rope pulleys takes guests across the jungle canopy of Cranbrook Flower Forest. Participants swing along traverses from 105 to 600 feet long, with views of the valley and mountains carved from ancient waters. Participants then enjoy a Jamaican lunch and climb 600-foot Dunn’s River Falls.

Dolphin Swim & Dunn’s River Falls

After climbing the 600-foot-high Dunn’s River Falls, guests travel to Dolphin Cove for a brief presentation and swimming session with the marine mammals. The tour includes time for shopping.

Bamboo Beach Club VIP Package

Quick Guide Famed for: Soulful reggae music, gorgeous beaches and breathtaking waterfalls like the one at Dunn’s River. It’s a Fact: Ian Fleming named his James Bond 007 character while living in Jamaica.

Enjoy all the services and amenities offered at Bamboo Beach Club but receive extra special VIP treatment Jamaican style! As a VIP guest, you will be taken to a gorgeous section of the beach, which has been sectioned off for your exclusive use. You'll have unlimited access to the regular Bamboo Beach Club, but you can also relax and enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful area.

Signature Souvenirs: Red Stripe beer, Rastafarian knit caps and all things Bob Marley. How to Get to Town: Your ship docks just a few steps from the heart of Ocho Rios’ shopping and dining area. Taxis are readily available at the pier.

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

PORT VIEW

Traditional jerk cuisine.

Things We Love About Ocho Rios Ocho Rios may not have the eight rivers its name implies, but you wouldn’t know that standing in the powerful cascade of Dunn’s River Falls. The island’s most recognized site offers one of the Caribbean’s most unusual experiences: climbing through 600 feet of rushing mountain water, holding hands in daisy-chain formation with other adventurers. The climb ends in one of the island’s busiest craft markets, where vendors sell wood carvings and straw goods, but most travelers prefer to

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head to the numerous duty-free malls for more relaxed shopping. Popular purchases at Soni’s Plaza, Harbor Shops, Taj Mahal and Island Village are fine jewelry, watches, Jamaican rum and cigars. Spices are highly sought to bring home a taste of the island’s signature jerk cuisine. Ocho’s elegant side is revealed in such attractions as Firefly, the serene estate where famed British playwright Noël Coward often came to find ‘‘room to write.’’ — John Bigley and Paris Permenter

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

Island Highlights

By Sara Churchville Paper Heroes Jamaica’s currency bears the portraits of several men revered as national heroes. On the $100 bill is Sir Donald Sangster, for whom Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay is named. Activist leaders Sam Sharpe and George William Gordon are on the $50 and $10 bills, respectively. On the $20 bill is Noel N. Nethersole, the revered former finance minister whose work on Jamaica monetary policy earned him the title “father of the Central Bank.”

Swallowtail Butterfly The world’s largest swallowtail butterfly, the Papilio homerus, is found only in Jamaica, where it’s called a bat — as are all butterflies and moths. The black-andyellow butterfly has a wingspan of 6 inches, making it the largest butterfly in the Americas. It’s also larger than the 3-inch-winged Jamaican fruit bat, a “rat-bat” as the nocturnal creatures are called. The endangered P. homerus is commemorated on Jamaica’s $1,000 note.

Jamaican Tody This red-throated, upwardly staring Jamaican bird is said to have gotten its color from a drop of blood from the Crucifixion. Unlike other birds, it makes its nest underground. It appears topside often enough, however, and is a common sight for birders.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Jamaica’s $20 note bearing the likeness of Noel N. Nethersole; a swallowtail butterfly; lush tropical ferns are long-lived; the tiny Jamaican tody.

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PHOTOS BY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; KAREN GIVENS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

Tropical Ferns Ferns aren’t exactly rare in tropical climates, but Ocho Rios, with its nearby rain forest, has more than the norm. In fact, a deep ravine with some 500 species of ferns is located from the Ocho Rios beaches to about 4 miles inland up the mountains. The area is called, with unceremonious accuracy, Fern Gully.

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Shoppes at Rose Hall | Montego Bay Island Village Plaza | Ocho Rios Historic Port of Falmouth | Falmouth 876.953.4600 jewelsandtime.com

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

THE VIBE KEEPS HOLDING STEADY

Artist’s depiction of St. Ann’s Bay.

By Marjorie Klein

Ocho Rios has attracted visitors since Christopher Columbus made landfall in 1494. The area has evolved through rollercoaster times: England’s triumph over the Spanish, the huge influence of wealthy plantation owners, the subsequent slave revolution, international industrialization and the tourism of today. Beginnings The advanced culture of the original settlers in Jamaica, the pre-Columbian Taíno people, is reflected in what remains of their Arawak language — still spoken today — in the ruins of ceremonial ballparks and in their complex religion, which is based on cosmology. Incredibly, the Taíno managed to survive for centuries. Columbus first anchored in St. Ann’s Bay, Jamaica, in 1494. A few years later, on another voyage, problems with his ships caused him to be stranded in Maima, the first and largest Taíno settlement, located just a few miles west of Ocho Rios, and renamed Sevilla la Nueva. He remained there for a year, abandoning two ships that archaeologists are still seeking. Sevilla was later the site of the island’s first sugar mill, which fueled an industry that became central to Jamaica’s economic growth. The Taíno were expected to acknowledge the king of Spain, 240

pay a gold tribute, provide work and convert to Christianity. The demands went unmet, and between the retribution they suffered and the diseases they contracted from their conquerors, the Taíno disappeared from Jamaica only 80 years later. Soon the Spanish would be displaced as well. England Brings Prosperity and Slavery The British wrested control of Jamaica from the Spanish in 1658, although skirmishes continued sporadically. They ended 150 years of Spanish rule with a decisive victory at Rio Nuevo, a small river that also lends its name to a village outside Ocho Rios. Today a monument honoring the Jamaican people who fought alongside the Spanish marks the battlefield site. Sugar plantations spread across Jamaica, bringing great wealth to their owners, whose costs were cut by the free labor of slaves they brought from Africa. Runaway slaves called Maroons are said to have hidden in the Green Grotto caves near Ocho Rios, as well as in the mountainous interior. With Jamaica as the largest producer of sugar in the world, plantations formed the basis of the country’s economy until the emancipation of slaves in 1834. Then agriculture became more diversified and fishing became a major industry.

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THE E TE RNAL MOVE ME NT Ulysse Nardin, from the movement of the sea to the perpetual innovation of Haute Horlogerie. For over 170 years, the powerful movement of the ocean has inspired Ulysse Nardin in its singular quest: to push back the limits of mechanical watchmaking, time and time again.

Dual Time Unique time zone quick setting Self-winding manufacture Silicium technology ulysse-nardin.com

Taj Mahal Plaza 路 Ocho Rios 路 974-2769 Port of Falmouth 路 Falmouth 路 620-4141 colors@cwjamaica.com

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

From Sleepy Village to Industrial Magnet Away from the bustling fishing piers, in the hills just north of Ocho Rios, one Sir Alfred d’Costa suspected that the strange red dirt on his ranch was responsible for the distressing condition of his cattle. Analysis revealed a high content of bauxite, a principal source of aluminum, which quickly attracted the attention of Reynolds Aluminum and accelerated the good fortune of Ocho Rios in the 1940s. Fishing piers evolved into deepwater shipping piers fed by conveyor belts that reached 6 miles to the mines. In 1984, Reynolds Jamaica Mines decided to leave the island altogether and pulled out of both the port and the mines. Today the Reynolds pier is used mainly as a cruise-ship port — an indication of Jamaica’s next economic phase. Tourism Thrives After gaining independence from Britain in 1962, Jamaica focused on celebrating its multiple virtues as a draw for vacationers, and the tourism industry boomed. In Ocho Rios, grand hotels and excellent restaurants sprouted along its beaches. Historic sites, with their explosive tropical beauty, became destinations unto themselves: Dunn’s River Falls; Shaw Park; Noël Coward’s home, Firefly; and, in Nine Mile, the Bob Marley Mausoleum honoring Jamaica’s father of reggae.

Jamaica’s beautiful countryside has inspired a thriving tourism industry.

Ocho Rios

Timeline

1494

Columbus anchors in St. Ann’s Bay.

1655

The British conquer Spanish occupants; Ocho Rios is named.

1940

Bauxite is discovered; Reynolds Aluminum begins mining operations.

1952

The first shipment of Jamaican bauxite leaves the port of Ocho Rios.

1962 Today Beautiful beaches are among the biggest draws in Ocho Rios.

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JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

Jamaica gains independence from Britain.

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ALOR.cOM

ST. KITTS

ISLAND VILLAGE | OCHO RIOS JAMAICA

JAMAICA FALMOUTH PORT

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JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

Ports of call | Ocho Rios

BUILDING ON THE PAST

By Linda Marx

Ocho Rios has grown into a thriving resort town with a mix of eye-popping architecture — from gingerbread to Georgian, from plantation-style to mega-modern.

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With its popularity as a destination for the rich and famous, it is not unusual to see wellpreserved colonial buildings located next to glistening high-rises. The island boasts an abundance of 1880s plantation homes that are still in use long after their construction. The White River Valley, located high in the hills, has an especially vast array of classic homes. Here a visitor is transported into a world of Jamaica’s intriguing past, viewing the many styles of Georgian architecture that seem to tell the story of Ocho Rios itself. Another fascinating find is the Village of Flowers, where the beautifully colored buildings look like they could be framed inside a watercolor painting. Other parts of the property feature the ruins of an old plantation home and smaller houses re-created in their original design.

Harmony Hall, a mid1800s Methodist manse east of Ocho Rios, has been showcasing the finest Jamaican arts and crafts since 1981.

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

FLOWERS, FERNS AND WATERFALLS By Ginger Dingus

When Christopher Columbus first arrived in Jamaica, he called it the fairest isle of all. Landing in what is now St. Ann’s Parish, Columbus saw a lush, verdant landscape that would earn the nickname ‘‘the garden parish.’’ Today, some 500 years later, St. Ann’s natural beauty is in full bloom. Visitors can see, sniff, touch and photograph gorgeous flowers, ferns and waterfalls at tropical gardens tucked away in the countryside a short ride from the cruise pier. Coyaba Gardens A sparkling stream runs through this tranquil oasis set midway up the amazingly green hills behind town. The name coyaba says it all. It comes from the Arawak word for “paradise.” Pathways wind past pink ginger plants, lipstick-red heliconia, giant cedars and banyan trees. The waters of Mahoe Falls splash down rocky cliffs into a tempting plunge pool. In British colonial days, these grounds were part of a plantation. The few remaining buildings house a gift shop and small museum displaying artifacts from Jamaica’s pre-Columbian inhabitants, the Taíno.

Cranbrook Flower Forest The 130-acre haven welcomes visitors to discover its tropical flower forest, wander through a rain forest, wade in the Little River or simply enjoy the birds. Hundreds of orchids flourish in the greenhouse, and there’s a restored sugar mill to explore. FROM TOP: Shaw Park Gardens; Mahoe Falls at Coyaba Gardens. 246

PHOTOS BY: FOTOSEARCH.COM; COYABA GARDENS

Shaw Park Gardens This botanical garden, named after sugar plantation owner John Shaw, is considered one of Jamaica’s finest. The property was transformed into an exclusive resort in the mid-1900s, when Flora McKenzie Pringle Stuart applied her green thumb to the landscape. Her magic touch lives on in hundreds of flowering plants nurtured by a picturesque waterfall.

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

GOING WITH THE FLOW IN OCHO Legend has it that Martha Brae, an Arawak girl, once used magic to divert the flow of a river to drown her Spanish captors. Some of that magic still remains on the river that bears her name.

Rafters set a leisurely pace on the Martha Brae River. 248

DIGITAL VISION PHOTOS

The Martha Brae River winds through a pristine forest full of bamboo, exotic fruits and many species of tropical birds. The best way to see all this is from the river itself. Travelers ride 30-foot bamboo rafts along the river’s gentle waters. Once used by plantation workers to haul bananas down the Rio Grande on the east coast, the rafts became tourist attractions back in the 1940s, when Hollywood swashbuckler Errol Flynn used them to entertain his friends. Today, they come with cushioned seats for one or two passengers, and the guides, who navigate with long poles as they stand on deck, talk a bit about their homeland or even stop to grab a fruit or flower from the riverbank. This is not a whitewater experience; the stable rafts and tame currents won’t even get a traveler’s feet wet. Lasting an hour or more, the tours are a relaxing, up-close look at Jamaica’s Eden-like beauty.

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DUNN’S RIVER FALLS By Marty Leshner

Jamaica’s most celebrated site, without question, is Dunn’s River Falls — a location that’s been featured in numerous magazine advertisements and television commercials promoting this Caribbean hot spot. These often-photographed falls cascade down a rocky mountainside on the right, rush under the road and join the sea at the white-sand beach on the left — not only a sight to see but to tackle, as well. For those not afraid to get their feet wet, climbing 600 feet to the top of the cascades is a real high. But this get-wet experience (there’s no escaping the water) calls for old sneakers or scuba boots with reliable soles. Join a conga line of hand-holding tourists and pick your way gingerly up the slippery rocks and boulders. Guides will hold your cameras, take your picture under the falls and point out placid pools among the lively rapids. Traditionally, climbers top off their trip with a cold Red Stripe beer, one of Jamaica’s most famous exports.

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

Dunn's River Falls

The Name Game A common belief is that Ocho Rios takes its name from the Spanish words for ‘‘eight rivers,’’ which is the literal translation. That interpretation is faulty, for the town doesn’t have eight rivers. The name instead may have been a corruption of las chorreras — Spanish for ‘‘rapids,’’ as in the rushing waters of Dunn’s River Falls. Jamaica itself has had many names, as the English struggled to spell the word the way they heard it. According to VisitJamaica.com, in its early years, the nation was called Gemecoe, Gemegoe, Jamico, Jammaca, Xaymaca, even Mamecah. The younger brother of Christopher Columbus, Bartholomé, was the first to put Jamaica on a map — although he spelled it “Jamaicha.”

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PHOTOS BY: (LEFT) NEWPHOTOSERVICE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (RIGHT) COL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Ocho Rios

A STATELY VIEW Compared to the massive Rose Hall and Greenwood great houses, the manor at Prospect Plantation is an unassuming structure. Though hardly small, it comprises just a few compact rooms in two stories, unlike the sprawling mansions of those better-known landmarks. Rising gracefully from the broad, manicured lawn leading from the road, it first seems less like a historic estate and more like the upscale vacation home of a modern family. Inside, however, the house’s history comes alive in rich wood wall accents and antiques that fill the smallish rooms. From the columned veranda on the rear of the house is a sumptuous view of colorful gardens leading down stone steps, with the Caribbean Sea seeming close enough to touch.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The great house’s veranda offers a majestic view of the Caribbean; the front entrance, set on a sweeping lawn; the home’s gardens; a flower-adorned stairway. 252

PHOTOS BY: KATE MCCLARE

Fertile History The great house was built in the early 1800s, but the plantation itself dates from 1721. After three ownership changes, it was purchased in 1936 by Sir Harold Mitchell of Scotland, an Oxford-educated scholar and former vice chairman of Britain’s Conservative Party. Mitchell later founded Prospect College, an all-boys school that still operates on the plantation grounds. The plantation is now owned by a sightseeing company, which offers tours by open-air jitney, horses and, surprisingly, camels. Views include White River Gorge and the spot where Christopher Columbus was shipwrecked for more than a year during one of his visits to the New World. The plantation is lush with plants, trees and agricultural crops that include bananas, cassava, sugarcane, coffee and allspice. Famous visitors, including Sir Winston Churchill, Henry Kissinger, Charlie Chaplin, Pierre Trudeau, Noël Coward and Drew Barrymore, planted many of the trees. — Kate McClare

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PROGRESS: POWERED BY A STROKE OF GENIUS, ONE AFTER ANOTHER. NOVAK DJOKOVIC

Kinetic GMT

*If there are changes in the region / time zone, manual time zone selection may be required.

A V A I L A B L E AT

ISLAND VILLAGE | OCHO RIOS JAMAICA

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NORMAN POGSON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | Ocho Rios

Firefly affords a sumptuous view of the Blue Mountains.

AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART

Like an eagle’s nest overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Noël Coward’s beloved home, Firefly, is perched on a 1,000-foot hill some 20 miles east of Ocho Rios. From this vantage point, visitors can see the Blue Mountains to the south and the north-coast headlands surrounding Port María — an absolutely awe-inspiring vista. It was here that the famous British man-about-town, author, playwright, actor and composer found peace, happiness and “the time to write.” It was at this charming Jamaican dwelling that Coward wrote his only novel, Pomp and Circumstance. Firefly Hill also served as the site of countless parties and social gatherings, with Coward entertaining the likes of Sir Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth II and celebrities including John Gielgud,

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Katharine Hepburn, Claudette Colbert, David Niven, Joan Sutherland and Errol Flynn. Coward even personally cooked for the Queen Mother at his Caribbean home. The house, which is open to the public, is much as Coward left it. Tour guides take visitors through the interior while painting such a vivid picture of his life that it is easy to imagine the owner will appear at any moment. Coward died suddenly in his big, mahogany fourposter bed on March 26, 1973, at the age of 74. His grave, marked by an engraved marble headstone, is on the property. Coward’s friends thought it only fitting that he should be buried here.

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Shopping in

Ocho Rios Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

Le Vian Chocolatier Sea Blue Aquamarine earrings

Korite Solara pendant

JAMAICAN JERK A highlight of any visit to Jamaica is a taste of jerk meat, prepared in a unique cooking style. This island nation has a particular way of barbecuing seasoned meats over a wood fire for a one-of-a-kind flavor. Jerk seasoning is a fiery mix of as many as 20 spices, including Scotch bonnet peppers, pimento (allspice) and scallions. Bite-size pieces of chicken, pork and beef are marinated, or “jerked,” and then thrown over slats of green pimento wood stretched across a pit in the ground or, sometimes, a garbage can or anything else that will do. The result is a spicy, savory meal that must be washed down with an ice-cold Red Stripe beer. If you want some of the best Jamaican jerk, try one of the ubiquitous roadside stands. Or buy a jar or two of prepared jerk marinade to enjoy at home — the price is right. — Lynn Seldon

PHOTOS BY: THEODOROS STAMATIADIS/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; BONCHAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Mark Henry Alexandrite & diamond pave band

Philip Stein Signature Chronograph

FROM TOP: Jerk chicken plate; a feast for roadside gourmets. 256

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MAGIC BEANS

Why is Jamaica’s Blue Mountain coffee the world’s most expensive and sought after? Biology and economy.

PHOTOS BY: TOMAS HAJEK/DREAMSTIME.COM; (COFFEE BEANS) ANDRII GORULKO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Of the island’s 23,000 acres of coffee trees, only 10,000 produce Blue Mountain coffee, which legally must be planted above 2,000 feet. At this elevation, the daytime-nighttime extremes provide the perfect climate for a slow-ripening process that produces a unique bean, blue-green in color, with little resistance to pests and disease. Its frailty means small yields. Blue Mountain coffee cherries, furthermore, are hand-picked to ensure optimal ripeness. The other factor is supply and demand. Blue Mountain farmers can’t seem to grow enough coffee, so they can theoretically set their prices as high as they wish. Stateside, the beans go for $50 a pound; in Jamaica, you can buy them for about $15 a pound.

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POIS MOI COLLECTION

Island Village Shopping Centre, Ocho Rios, Jamaica

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PICK A PEPPER

The Scotch bonnet pepper has a special kind of heat.

JOOP HOEK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Chili peppers are a trademark ingredient in Caribbean cuisine, dating to the time of the Arawak Amerindians. The most famous pepper of the islands, the Scotch bonnet, has 50 times the firepower of the (relatively) wimpy jalapeño. It goes by the name “bonney” in Jamaica, “habanero” in the Spanish islands and “goat pepper” or rocotillo in the Bahamas.

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ACROSS FROM THE CRUISE SHIP PIER

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Ports of call | Ocho Rios

Curry:

THE SPICE OF ISLAND LIFE By Jen Karetnick

Clara is worried that the Iqbals, who are Bangladeshi, will find her Caribbean curry unfamiliar, a different species entirely from Southeast Asian curry. Curry is an ambiguous label for a fish or meat course stewed with a mixture of pungent spices. The Caribbean and Southeast Asian varieties are not in fact dissimilar, though each has a unique flavor.

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KRZYSZTOF SLUSARCZYK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

In Zadie Smith’s novel White Teeth, Jamaica native Clara, who lives in London, notes to her husband, “You said the Iqbals are comin’ to dinner. I was just thinkin’ … if they’re going to want me to cook dem some curry — I mean, I can cook curry — but it’s my type of curry.”

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SPECI A L A DV ERT ISING FE AT U R E

Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Jamaica Blue Mountain® Coffee has a strong heritage, dating back to the early 18th century. Today, JABLUM® Jamaica Blue Mountain® Coffee maintains its rank as one of the world’s most sought-after coffees. Vibrant, bright, smooth as silk — often described as the “best coffee in the world” — Jamaica Blue Mountain® Coffee is in great demand from coffee connoisseurs globally.

Christopher Columbus is almost directly responsible for the parallel: A little more than 500 years ago, when he stumbled on the islands of the West Indies as he looked for new trade routes to India, he discovered chili peppers, one of the prime components of curry. Colu m b u s br o u gh t t h e n a t i v e C a r i b b e a n c h i l ie s — wh ic h a re refer re d to a s Scotc h bon net , Congo , h abanero or bird peppers, depending on the island culture or language — to India and China, which incorporated them into their cuisine. Ironically, about 200 years later, when Indian and Chinese immigrants settled on many Caribbean islands, they brought chili peppers with them. That’s when they introduced the islanders to curry, which in addition to chili peppers, occasionally contains ginger, a root that has taken so well to the Jamaican climate it might as well be an indigenous crop; you can find ginger in the marketplaces in its natural root form, crystallized or as a powder. The Indian method of preparing curry became common, so much so that in Jamaica, curry goat is practically a national dish. In the end, the only real difference between Jamaican and Indian curry is the inclusion of allspice, also known as pimento, a dried berry native to Jamaica that tastes like a combination of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves. Likewise, Scotch bonnet chilies and allspice berries are the main ingredients of Jamaica’s rightfully famous jerk seasoning, which is a combination of up to 20 different spices.

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PHOTOS BY: (SPICES) L.F/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Spices and herbs.

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RUMS, RUM CAKE & GOURMET TREATS Available throughout the Caribbean. We Ship Worldwide. Proudly Baked in Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Bahamas.

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Ports of call | Port Canaveral

PORT CANAVERAL

The deep-water harbor of Port Canaveral leads visitors to the Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral. Miles of sandy shoreline stretch along the cape, and the hugely popular theme parks are not far away.

Quick Guide Famed for: Kennedy Space Center. It’s a Fact: The nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge has more endangered species than any other natural haven in the country. Signature Souvenirs: A miniature Space Shuttle, freeze-dried ice cream and other artifacts of Space Age memorabilia.

FUNTREKS

• Kennedy Space Center Tour • Airboat Tour & Alligators

• Walt Disney World • Magic Kingdom®

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• Universal Studios® Theme Park

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Ports of call | San Juan

Colorful buildings abound in Old San Juan.

SAN JUAN

This vibrant city blends spectacular natural scenery with historic architecture and a lively culture. Fascinating galleries and museums mix with fashionable shops, thrilling nightlife and beautiful beaches.

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FUNTREKS

Rainforest Drive

Guests see El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the United States territory. Sights include the Luquillo mountain range, featuring spectacular jungle vegetation. The tour stops at La Coca Falls, a natural pool and the Tourist Recreation Center, as well as at handicraft and local product stores.

Rainforest Horseback Riding Adventure

Enjoy the ride through the north part of Puerto Rico to the eastern side through thr Central Mountain range.

Deluxe Beach Escape At Vivo Beach Club with Lunch GERARDO BORBOLLA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Escape to Vivo Beach Club. Swim in the crystal Caribbean waters; participate in activities on land or water.

Window Cave Experience

Prepare yourself to have an astonishing ecological adventure. Your tour will depart San Juan on a 1.25 hour sightseeing ride to Arecibo.

Xtreme Zipline Adventure & The Beast

Enjoy one of Puerto Rico’s tropical forest reserve’s while on a exhilarating zipline adventure.

Quick Guide Famed for: The walled Old San Juan district, with 400 restored buildings dating to the 16th and 17th centuries. It’s a Fact: The piña colada, that creamy concoction of rum, pineapple and coconut, was invented here. Signature Souvenirs: Guayabera shirts and folk art found in local-designer clothing boutiques and art galleries. How to Get to Town: The ship will dock at one of three different piers in San Juan: Pier 1, Pier 4 or the Pan-American Pier. From Pier 1, it’s just a short walk to the Old San Juan historic district and shopping area. Pier 4 is a 10-to-15-minute walk or a short taxi ride to town. From the Pan-American Pier, you’ll want to take a taxi, as it’s not within walking distance. Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Ports of call | San Juan

PORT VIEW

The ocean view from Old San Juan

Things We Love About San Juan The heart and soul of the island is Old San Juan, the historic district, which dates to the 1500s. Visitors explore historical and cultural attractions throughout the cobblestoned and walled city, strolling by the ramparts where Spanish soldiers once held watch. An energetic nightlife, including casinos and creative dining, draws visitors to different districts in San Juan. In SOFO, the “South of Fortaleza” Street neighborhood, fine restaurants double as bars for after-hours entertainment. A 10-minute drive leads to the beautiful beaches of the chic Condado, Isla Verde and Santurce areas, where sea kayaking, surfing and windsurfing are popular sports during the day,

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and lounges and nightclubs fire up at night. Across the lagoon from Condado, Santurce is a cultural center with attractions that include the Museum of Art, the Fine Arts Center, Central Park and La Placita de Santurce, an open-air plaza with diverse local cuisine that turns into an all-out street fest on weekend nights. Outside the city, the El Yunque rain forest is a must for those seeking Puerto Rico’s natural side. As the only rain forest in the US Forest System, it offers 28,000 acres of walking and hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities and idyllic waterfalls in which to take a refreshing dip, with rappelling and zip-lining for the more adventurous types.

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TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE HEUER 01

Four world championships and two league MVP awards. Forty-six game winning drives. The longest winning streak in NFL history. Tom Brady is a champion, and champions never crack under pressure.

250 Calle Fortaleza Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 787-977-5555

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Ports of call | San Juan

By Sara Churchville

Coqui Frog This tiny, indigenous frog — even the largest measures only about an inch — is the national symbol of Puerto Rico. The “ko-kee” song of the male, which begins at dusk and continues throughout the night, is one of the distinctive sounds of San Juan and the island. Cocina Criolla San Juan is teeming with restaurants and cafés specializing in cocina criolla, the local cuisine that reflects Puerto Rico’s centuries of varied cultural influences. Two of the most distinctive local foods are bacalaitos (codfish fritters) and mofongo. Made of tostones (deep-fried green plantains) mashed with olive oil and garlic, mofongo can come in any number of presentations, including stuffed with seafood, pork or chicken and sometimes topped with tomato and garlic sauce. Salsa Music Salsa may have been born in New York, but its roots are deep in the traditional rhythms of Puerto Rican folk music. The very first salsa bands were formed by Puerto Rican transplants making it big in the Big Apple by blending jazz, funk and Afro-Caribbean beats with the sounds they loved from back home. And salsa returned to its roots with a passion, where it has remained one of Puerto Rico’s most popular music styles.

PHOTOS BY: (COQUI) PANACHAI CHERDCHUCHEEP/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BACARDI) JOSHUA RESNICK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (MOFONGO) OTOKIMUS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Island Highlights

FROM TOP: A cute coqui frog; Bacardi 8 served over ice; mofongo, a classic island dish.

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Ports of call | San Juan

THE WALLED CITY By Gerald Zarr

If the explorers had their way, you would be visiting the city of Puerto Rico on the island of San Juan, rather than San Juan on the island of Puerto Rico.

CEDRIC WEBER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Christopher Columbus landed on the beautiful island in 1493 and named it San Juan Bautista. In 1511, Juan Ponce de Leรณn named the town Puerto R ico. An unknown mapmaker seems to have switched the names in the 16th century, however, and it has stayed that way ever since.

Ocean view from El Morro.

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TREASURE THE LITTLE THINGS T H E PA N D O R A S T O R E A T

OLD SAN JUAN

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Ports of call | San Juan

Beginnings One of the oldest European cities in the Americas, San Juan is known as The Walled City, because of its massive encircling stone wall anchored by the mighty forts of El Morro and San Cristóbal. The wall was started in 1539 and finished in 1782. Up until 1897, the city was accessible only through five enormous, heavily guarded wooden doors that closed at nightfall. Spain’s Neighbors Come Calling The wall was not merely for show. San Juan Bay soon became the central hub for the export of New World riches and a magnet for British, Dutch and French privateers, as well as pirates, who sought fame and fortune, while their motherlands lusted for the most lucrative piece of real estate in the Western Hemisphere. With all this attention, it’s surprising how infrequently the city was overrun. The British managed to seize and burn San Juan in 1598, but dysentery did them in. On their heels, the Dutch attacked in 1625, but were also overcome by disease and had to retreat. Irish Interlude As Spain’s prominence declined in the 18th century, Puerto Ricans became resentful of getting so little in return for their labor from the Spanish. Islanders were not allowed to participate in government, and Spain’s mercantilist practices did not allow them to trade with other nations. As a result, the Puerto Ricans took to trading sugar and rum illegally. Because of that, the Spanish Empire took decisive action and sent two Irishmen to take charge. The first was Tomas O’Daly, an experienced engineer, who fortified San Juan’s defenses. The second was his boss, Field Marshal Alejandro O’Reilly, an Irish mercenary who fought in the Spanish Army and quickly rose through the ranks. O’Reilly built schools and roads, dropped trade restrictions and lowered taxes; consequently, Puerto Rico’s economy boomed in the late 18th century. O’Reilly is also known as the father of the Puerto Rican militia, because he built up and reformed a local constabulary force. After leaving San Juan, O’Reilly went to New Orleans to become the governor of Spanish Louisiana. Under the American Flag Following the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico came under American rule. In 1917, Puerto Ricans became American citizens. They have since voted overwhelmingly to retain their commonwealth status, making San Juan the oldest city under the US flag today. Old San Juan’s Rescue After the city walls came down in 1897, the city expanded to include Miramar, Santurce, Condado, Hato Rey and Río Piedras, but Old San Juan remained its heart and soul. In 1973, Old San Juan gained the coveted title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once considered a dingy assemblage of colonial ruins that seemed to have crumbled in tandem with the empire that constructed them, the seven-block square comprising Old San Juan is now considered the best repository of Spanish colonial architecture in the Western Hemisphere. The charming blue cobblestones that pave the streets originally served as ballast on Spanish ships. La Fortaleza, one of the old city’s jewels, is the oldest executive mansion in the Western Hemisphere.

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San Juan

Timeline

1493 Columbus reaches Puerto Rico.

1511 1782

San Juan is settled.

The great encircling wall is completed.

1898 Puerto Rico comes under US rule.

1947 The governor becomes popularly elected.

1973 Old San Juan becomes a World Heritage Site.

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Ports of call | San Juan

Shopping in

Colonial street to La Fortaleza, the governor’s mansion

San Juan Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it! Mark Henry Alexandrite pendant Pavé Collection

Marahlago Alexandria necklace

Philip Stein Signature Chronograph with black alligator strap

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THE OLDEST MANSION

Old San Juan is filled with hundreds of preserved buildings that tell the history of the city and the island. La Fortaleza, the Western Hemisphere’s oldest executive mansion in continuous use, has been home to more than 200 Puerto Rican governors. Its original single tower and patio were built in 1540 to protect the Spanish population from the Carib tribe. Its more palatial elements were 19th-century additions, including the polished reception rooms, the stately mahogany staircase and the mosaic-lined chapel that was once used as a storeroom for gold bullion.

ANTIGUA TOURISM BOARD

Hearts on Fire Aerial Diamond right hand ring

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NORDSTROM • SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

American Cut Bar & Grill Ann Taylor Anthropologie BCBGMAXAZRIA Brio Tuscan Grille Burger & Beer Joint Carmen Steffens Coach Daniel Espinosa Jewelry Finish Line Fit2Run, The Runner’s Superstore Geox Giuseppe Zanotti Design Herve Leger by Max Azria

PANDORA Pottery Barn Stuart Weitzman Swarovski Tiffany & Co. Tommy Bahama Tory Burch TUMI Urban Outfitters Versace Victoria’s Secret White House | Black Market Williams-Sonoma Zara

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Over 80 stores and restaurants ENTERTAINMENT Karaoke Nights on Thursdays 7pm-10pm Live Music on Fridays and Saturdays 4 Coffee Shops 6 Restaurants Gelato Parlor Happy Mondays •All day long “happy hours” at our restaurants Children’s Play Area Kids Club on Tuesdays from 2pm-6pm • Free, fun activities • Kids eat free all day long – all restaurants 5088.indd 1

TOURIST AMENITIES • Passport to Shopping Discount Booklet • Complimentary Luggage Storage • Free WiFi • Complimentary Shopping Packages • Complimentary Wheelchairs • Personal Shopper at participating stores • 5 minutes away from Luis Muñoz Marín Airport • 15 minutes away from ports

Out-of-town guests, pick up your PASSPORT TO SHOPPING at Customer Service and enjoy exclusive visitor offers!

themallofsanjuan.com

Access through Piñero Avenue and the Teodoro Moscoso Bridge

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Ports of call | San Juan

COLONIAL CHARM

in Old San Juan

Besides the area’s rich heritage, the district offers plenty of shopping, dining and nightlife opportunities in and around beautiful courtyards encircled with striking arches and ornamented with colorfully patterned tiles. Three stunning Spanish Colonial structures that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located within Old San Juan’s walls: La Fortaleza palace and the forts of El Morro and San Cristóbal. El Morro is the best place from which to set out. The fortress boasts walls 20 feet thick and 140 feet high on the western point of the peninsula. Built from 1539 to 1783, this massive edifice defended Puerto Rico from a slew of enemies over the years. Sir Francis Drake was one of the first to attack it in 1595, and it was last bombarded by US troops in 1898. One of the few buildings in the city older than El Morro is Casa Blanca, built in 1521 as the residence of the Ponce de León family. Casa Blanca remained in the explorer’s family for 250 years. In modern times, the structure has been restored as two museums, one of which features much of the original wood furniture. Back in the heart of Old San Juan, the buildings and historical sites are much more concentrated. Some of the best stops are the San Juan Museum of Art and History, the Pablo Casals Museum, the San Juan Cathedral, La Puerta de San Juan (the original port) and the Museum of the Americas. The district’s best photo spot is probably La Garita del Diablo, which is one of the oldest areas in the San Cristóbal fort and was built in 1634. With all of the incredible scenery in Puerto Rico, digital photographers will be glad they don’t have to worry about running out of film.

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PHOTOS BY: (GARITA) JOHN WOLLWERTH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (EL MORRO COURTYARD) ALBERTO LOYO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

If you are drawn to historic cities, the seven blocks that make up Old San Juan will enchant you.

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UNIQUE STYLE. YOUR WAY. T H E PA N D O R A S T O R E A T

OLD SAN JUAN

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PHOTOS BY: (CIGAR) VOLODYMYR KRASYUK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (CIGAR MAKER) DOTSHOCK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | San Juan

Puerto Rican

LEFT: Rum and a cigar, the perfect pair. ABOVE: A cigar-maker at work.

DELIGHTS

Think of San Juan, and quite likely three little words come to mind: Coffee, rum and cigars. Once the mainstays of Puerto Rico’s economy, these locally made delights still have their place at the table. Coffee made its Caribbean debut in the 1700s, when plants imported from the Old World first arrived on the scene. The shiny green shrubs flourished on Puerto Rico’s mountain slopes. Plantation owners grew rich, and coffee mills soon dotted the landscape. Although production has decreased over the years, a few top estates still grow the island’s prized black gold. Rum and alcohol are nearly synonymous in Puerto Rico. Distilled from fermented molasses,

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a byproduct of sugarcane processing, this island spirit has a long history in the region. The best rum is aged in oak barrels, either charred to give the spirit color, or left uncharred for clear, white rum. Cigars, as the story goes, date back to the island’s pre-Columbian inhabitants, the Taíno. They cultivated tobacco and rolled the dried leaves into cigars, which the Europeans observed in their early encounters with the natives. Intrigued, the explorers took their newfound habit back to Europe — and the cigar craze began. More than 500 years later, hand-rolling remains the preferred method of making fine cigars. — Ginger Dingus

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Ports of call | San Juan

El Yunque rain forest

Hope for

THE FUTURE

KJERSTI JOERGENSEN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

El Yunque rain forest is home to a great variety of vegetation and wildlife, including one species that almost disappeared: the Puerto Rican parrot.

According to the US Forest Service, the bright-green bird has lived in the forests of Puerto Rico for well over a thousand years, and once numbered in the millions. But the species (Amazona vittata) began dwindling soon after European colonization began in the 15th and 16th centuries. By the mid-1900s, its habitat was nearly eradicated by the conversion of forestland to farms and cities. The Puerto Rican Parrot Recovery Program was created in 1968, after the parrot population had diminished to a mere two dozen. The multi-agency group has helped bring the number of birds in the wild up to about 65 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; slow but steady progress that wildlife supporters are working hard to maintain.

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A Gastronome’s

TOUR

Dining is an integral part of discovering Old San Juan, as much as sightseeing or shopping. The SOFO neighborhood — South of Fortaleza — is known for fine dining and outdoor food festivals that draw many a hungry crowd. In the chic Condado and Isla Verde areas, chefs combine modern Latin-fusion meals with traditional Creole cuisine, and diners enjoy mouthwatering blends of Latin, French, Asian and even Indian dishes. Traditional Tastes The lively town of Santurce is home to fashionable Spanish restaurants, a local farmers market and the delightful fondas: small eateries serving homestyle Puerto Rican cooking. You might enjoy asopao, a hardy chicken-and-rice gumbo. Your meal will likely come with a generous helping of arroz blanco (white rice) and habichuelas — beans stewed in sofrito, a blend of onions, peppers, cilantro, garlic and salt pork. And you’re sure to want a dessert of flan (baked custard topped with a caramel glaze) or tembleque, a bread pudding made with coconut milk and custard. Of course, no meal is complete without a cup of rich Puerto Rican coffee.

THE PUERTO RICO TOURISM COMPANY

¡Buen provecho!

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Ports of call | San Juan

Statue of Christopher Columbus in San Juan

Circles & SQUARES By Ginger Dingus

In 1492, Christopher Columbus sailed the ocean blue. He landed in Puerto Rico during his second voyage in 1493, only to sail right back home across the Atlantic.

KONSTANTIN L/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Now he has come full circle. The explorer has returned to San Juan in the form of a statue, an impressive figure that stands on a pedestal in the Plaza de Colón. A more recent homage to Columbus, Plaza del Quinto Centenario was created to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the European voyage to the Americas. The multilevel square, located on the highest hill in the old city, overlooks a busy harbor filled with cruise ships and a multitude of other vessels. Old San Juan’s colonial central square, the Plaza de Armas, was originally used for military drills — hence its name. Graced by a fountain and statues representing the four seasons, the plaza is a lively gathering spot for locals and a convenient place for visitors to take a break from the shopping circuit.

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Ports of call | St. Kitts

Historic Brimstone Hill Fortress offers fascinating history and breathtaking views.

ST. KITTS

Often regarded as the jewel of the Caribbean, this volcanic island offers some of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most dramatic panoramas and dynamic photo opportunities. Formally named St. Christopher, St. Kitts is part of the two-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis (pronounced NEE-vis). 294

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FUNTREKS

TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS

MBOE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

4x4 Island Safari & Beach

Guests take off-road vehicles through a tropical rainforest and then enjoy a refreshing swim in the Caribbean. This trip, in specially modified 4x4 Land Rovers, heads inland through villages and up into the cool mountain rainforest. The tour stops at a private mountaintop property 1,000 feet above sea level, continues through the mountains to the opposite side of the island and ends at the beach.

Catamaran Fan-Ta-Sea & Nevis Beach Break

Set sail along the coast of St. Kitts for a memorable day on the water, enjoying time to snorkel and relax on the beach as well as a delicious buffet lunch.

St. Kitts by Rail & Sail

The St. Kitts Railway offers a memorable journey around this beautiful island, followed by a relaxing catamaran sail back along St. Kitts’ southwestern coastline.

Deluxe Catamaran Sail & Snorkel with Open Bar

Board your catamaran and sail the crystal clear waters to Shittens Bay for a rewarding snorkeling experience.

Sky Safari Zip Lining

Adrenaline runs high on this “flight” over the rainforest, 25 stories above ground. Participants travel by Land Rover to the zipline course, which crosses valleys and a stream and goes through tunnels of vegetation to the landing point.

Quick Guide Famed for: The romantic aura that makes this place a popular honeymoon destination. It’s a Fact: In 2007, St. Kitts and Nevis became the smallest nation to host the Cricket World Cup. Signature Souvenirs: Locally designed batik print clothing and sculptures created from dried coconut shells. How to Get to Town: You can walk to the historical center at Basseterre in just a few minutes — no taxi needed.

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DARRYL BROOKS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Kitts

PORT VIEW

St. Kitts is a colorful stop in the Caribbean.

Things We Love About St. Kitts Through the centuries, changes in governments gave many Caribbean islands a mélange of influences seen in cuisines, languages and architectural styles. St. Kitts’ British heritage is showcased at Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, where one needn’t be a military buff to enjoy the view of Nevis, Montserrat, Saba, St. Maarten and St. Barts on a clear day. An even loftier summit is found atop Mount Liamuiga, an allday challenge. The easiest sightseeing experience is aboard the his-

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toric St. Kitts Scenic Railway, a 30-mile ride around the island aboard a narrow-gauge railway that once carried sugarcane from the plantations. The train returns to the capital of Basseterre, the home of the island’s shopping scene, where batik and local artwork are especially popular buys. For serious shoppers of crystal, gold jewelry, watches, china and porcelain, shops along the Circus and in the Pelican and TDC malls offer a wide assortment of tempting, duty-free goods. — John Bigley and Paris Permenter

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Ports of call | St. Kitts

Island Highlights By Raymond Niedowski

National Flower The flamboyant, a flowering tree with vibrant red-andyellow blossoms and long black seedpods, blooms from May to August. It’s also known as the royal poinciana, after Phillippe de Longvilliers de Poincy, the island’s first French governor. No matter what you call it, St. Kitts has chosen this beauty as its national flower. Honored Heritage St. Kitts may be small, but that doesn’t mean it can’t have its own coat of arms. The main features include a barge in full sail, a red chevron, royal poinciana flowers and a Carib native’s head flanked by a fleur-de-lis and a rose. These symbolize the island’s early inhabitants and its French and English influences.

National Bird St. Kitts also has a national bird — the brown pelican. Graceful and swift, these large brown-and-white creatures with seemingly never-ending beaks patrol the sea for tasty morsels, soaring in lazy curves before plunging toward lunch or dinner. What better symbol of the island than these free spirits?

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The St. Kitts coat of arms; a royal poinciana flower; the flag waving on Brimstone Hill Fortress; a brown pelican.

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PHOTOS BY: (FLOWER) CASPER1774 STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (SHIELD) ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (FLAG) ALLEN FURMANSKI/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (PELICAN) MICHAEL D. SKELTON/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

St. Kitts Flag The colors of St. Kitts’ national flag reflect the past and present — green for the land’s fertility, red for the struggle from colonial slavery to independence, black for the island’s African heritage and yellow for — what else? — the year-round sunshine. Its two white stars represent hope and liberty.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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YELLOW EMERALDS BLUE DIAMONDS

E-mail: info@kaysfinejewelry.com www.kaysfinejewelry.com Friend us on Facebook: Kfj Caribbean

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Ports of call | St. Kitts

ST. KITTS TOURISM BOARD

St. Kitts offered European nations an important base in the Caribbean.

A FERTILE LAND

St. Kitts boasts some of the oldest settlements in the entire Caribbean.

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For centuries, the island of St. Kitts had been an attractive home to various tribes. Its rich, productive, volcanic soil earned it the name Liamuiga, or “fertile land,” by the Carib people who arrived around A.D. 1300. It was the northernmost island in the Caribbean that the tribe would settle. St. Kitts’ central location made it an important base for trade throughout the Caribbean. On his second voyage to the New World in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered the island and named it San Jorges. Inaccuracies in maps of the time made it difficult to distinguish between the islands, and San Jorges was misidentified and renamed San Cristobal after Columbus’ patron saint. The name was later anglicized to St. Christopher. Though widely known as St. Kitts, its formal name remains St. Christopher Island. In 1623, hungry for a foothold in the Caribbean, Englishman Thomas Warner landed on St. Kitts and claimed it as the first British territory in the West Indies. He established a colony a year later.

A French ship badly in need of repair appeared in the harbor in 1625 after a run-in with the Spanish army. Warner took pity and allowed the French to settle on the island, which made St. Kitts the first French colony in the Caribbean. St. Kitts changed hands numerous times between the French and English throughout its early history, until the 1783 Treaty of Versailles definitively recognized British rule. The island’s economic fortunes were bolstered when they began to harvest sugarcane in 1640, eventually becoming the leading sugar producer in the Caribbean. But from the late 1800s onward, sugar industry profits began a long, slow decline. In 1967, St. Kitts, along with its sister island, Nevis, became an associated state of Britain, and attained full independence as a single nation in 1983. With its intriguing coves, exhilarating hiking paths, dramatic panoramas and palm-lined beaches, St. Kitts is a classic Caribbean destination.

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BASTIONS OF BRAVERY

JASON PATRICK ROSS/SHUTTERESTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Kitts

The Citadel at Brimstone Hill Fortress

Perched on a hill high above the northern coast of St. Kitts is a 38-acre stronghold aptly referred to as the Gibraltar of the West Indies, otherwise known as Brimstone Hill Fortress. The massive fortress, which played a pivotal role in the battle for control of the Leewards, takes its name from the lingering odor of sulfur (brimstone) constantly being released from nearby volcanic vents. In 1690, after dislodging the French from the island, the British decided to construct the behemoth. Over the following decades, some 2,000 slaves worked every day to build five bastions linked by walls of burnt-black stone 7 to 12 feet thick. Fifty cannons were positioned in strategic locations across the walls. Its British builders believed that Brimstone’s vantage point at 800 feet above the Caribbean Sea made it impregnable, but it was stormed successfully by the French in 1782. After their surrender, as a tribute to their bravery, the British soldiers were permitted to march out in uniform with drums beating and colors flying. A year later, the British retook the fort and accorded the French the same honor. Of the original five bastions, three have been fully restored, including the Prince of Wales Bastion, which was completed in 1973. The old barracks and officers’ quarters now contain interesting displays of artifacts and paintings related to the fort’s construction. Etched into the inside walls of the barracks, the names of many of those who fought and died at the fortress are still visible, silent but powerful reminder of the island’s violent past. — Michael De Freitas and Deborah Wilson

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Ports of call | St. Kitts

OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port

Life Is Cool

Located close to the taxi stand, Life Is Cool has a wide variety of souvenirs as well as jewelry such as Caribbean topaz, larimar and Australian opal. We have the lowest prices, guaranteed, and our friendly staff can put together the perfect outfit for your day. Shop for gifts for everyone and pick up your free souvenir.

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Shells Souvenir

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a wide range of clothing, souvenirs and watches at Shells Souvenir, with a large variety and the best quality in silver jewelry. Stop at Shells for resort wear, beachwear, accessories and lots more. Collect your free Caribbean souvenir while you shop.

Shivas Souvenir

Offering unparalleled quality and unparalleled prices, Shells Souvenir has a wide selection of clothing, including exclusive surf collections. Select gifts for everyone and pick up your free souvenir.

Tropical World

With more than 17 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience, Tropical World specializes in clothing and accessories. Our wide selection of 100 percent cotton T-shirts, dresses and beach wear will make you feel right at home in the Caribbean. Shop for gifts for everyone and select your free souvenir.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Marine Chronometer 60 hours power reserve Self-winding manufacture Silicium technology ulysse-nardin.com

nickcolors@gmail.com

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Ports of call | St. Kitts

THE WHISTLE BLOWS Since the first sugarcane was planted in St. Kitts’ fertile soil around 1650, sugar has been the mainstay of the island’s agriculture-based economy. In 1912, the small individually owned estate mills and boiling houses scattered throughout the island were replaced by one large sugar refinery capable of processing the island’s entire crop. During this time, a narrow-gauge railway was built between the pier in Basseterre Bay and a drop-off point about a mile north in order to haul cane and construction material for the new factory. By 1925, the railway had been extended around the island in a single loop, and remains in operation today. In all, the railway covers 40 miles and 26 bridges. The original steam locomotive, Number 8, taken out of service many years ago, still sits in the sugar factory’s yard. During the peak harvest period, the new diesel engines haul over 2,700 tons (900 wagon loads) of cane each day. Currently, the railway is one of only six operating systems in the Caribbean. It still remains a vital part of the island’s economy. So railway enthusiasts needn’t fret — the clatter of wheels and locomotive whistles will be heard for many years to come. — Michael De Freitas

PHOTO BY: JASON PATRICK ROSS/SHUTERSTOCK.COM

The railway cuts through the verdant St. Kitts countryside.

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FAST REAK LY B G I IN SERV LUNCH DA AND

ST.KITTS' ONLY

HOME-MADE GOURMET

GELATO COFFEE

FRESH PASTRIES

SANDWICHES & WRAPS SMOOTHIES

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GOURMET CHEESE

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UNIQUE STYLE. YOUR WAY. Port Zante • R.L.Brashaw Int’l Airport PO BOX 14 • Basseterre St.Kitts 869.466.5853 • ICJEWELS@SISTERISLES.KN

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LUCIA PITTER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Lucia

The Pitons, also known as the Twin Peaks, stand like sentries on St. Lucia’s coastline.

ST. LUCIA The island’s striking landscape is washed with greenmantled mountains, broad swaths of sand, exotic rainforests and a steaming volcanic crater. This is one of the Caribbean’s most romantic places, and many visitors end up falling in love with St. Lucia itself.

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FUNTREKS

Land & Sea Combo to Soufrière

A combination excursion begins with a motor-coach drive through Castries to the picturesque town of Soufrière, including stunning Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens. In Soufrière Bay, guests board a catamaran, are served a Creole lunch and sail to the tranquil cove of Anse Cochon for a swim.

Ultimate Rainforest Adventure – Zip, Hike & Sky Ride

Discover the rainforest and experience three exciting activities: the aerial tram, the zipline canopy and a hiking tour through the tropical coastal rainforest.

Segway, Sightseeing & Beach Fun LUCIA PITTER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Enjoy a day of adventure on this excursion combining your Segway skills, a scenic island drive and fun at the beach.

Top 10 of St. Lucia: Soufriere, Pitons & More!

See as much as you can of the beautiful St. Lucia; admire the twin Pitons and the volcanic area of Soufriere, taste sweet bananas, fresh-baked Creole bread and various other St. Lucian delights.

Adrenaline Zipline Adventure

See St. Lucia’s rainforest from high above the ground during this thrilling adventure.

Quick Guide Famed for: The twin volcanic peaks called the Pitons and palm-studded beaches. It’s a Fact: When French King Louis XVI controlled the island, he ordered mineral baths built for the benefit of his troops. Signature Souvenirs: Batik or silk-screened fabrics and paintings by local artists. How to Get to Town: If your ship docks at La Place Carenage, take a three-minute ferry ride into town. If it docks at Pointe Seraphine, just walk down the gangway and you’re there.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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ALICIA DAUKSIS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Lucia

PORT VIEW

The Soufrière waterfront

Things We Love About St. Lucia On the southwest coast of romantic St. Lucia, the island’s famed twin peaks — 2,620-foot Gros Piton and 2,460-foot Petit Piton — are among the Caribbean’s most photographed sights, appearing to rise from the sea at the water’s edge. These volcanic heights are for experienced climbers only. But hikes in the misty rain forest below, home of the rare St. Lucian parrot, offer plenty of satisfaction for the less seasoned and for couples in search of romantic getaways. At the Sulphur Springs volcano, travelers walk to the edge of the volcano that last erupted two centuries ago. Nearby, the Diamond Waterfalls and Gardens cascade in a spray of “diamond” twinkles,

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and locals and visitors can soak in steamy mineral baths built alongside the ruins of the baths commissioned by French King Louis XVI. Castries, St. Lucia’s capital, is also its shopping hub, thanks to duty-free malls offering treasures such as fine jewels and crystal. Here, fragrant spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg, hint at the fertility of this citrusscented island. The island’s spices also liven up Creole cuisine. Favorite dishes such as green fig and saltfish are served in local hideaways in the fishing village of Anse La Raye and in tiny Gros Islet, which is famous for its Friday night parties. — John Bigley and Paris Permenter

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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See the Onboard Shore Excursions Desk for details.

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JOHN WOLLWERTH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Maarten/St. Martin

Philipsburg lies on the Dutch side of the island.

ST. MAARTEN/ ST. MARTIN

Half Dutch and half French, the two-nation island of St. Maarten/St. Martin enjoys the best that its dual heritage has to offer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with a tropical twist. Like so many other Caribbean nations, this picturesque destination has stunning beaches, but with so many sporting facilities, shops and restaurants, it is a paradise on many other levels as well. 314

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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FUNTREKS

Golden Eagle Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

Golden Eagle, a 76-foot winged-mast catamaran, takes guests for a memorable day on the water: snorkeling, swimming or lying on the deck under the 80-foot sail listening to music. Golden Eagle stops at a pink-sand beach and the trip includes cocktails and snacks.

Aqua Fun Rides

JOHN WOLLWERTH/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ride this fast two-person watercraft along the St. Maarten shoreline and swim or snorkel in the pristine waters. There is a brief introduction to the vessel’s operation system by the guide and off you go surfing the waves, cross the border to the North side up to Creole Rock Island in Grand Case’s Nature Reserve. Anchor the vessel, enjoy snorkeling and swimming and relax your senses in the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

St. Maarten Jeep & Beach Fun

Get away from the crowds and experience 4x4 trails and island roads. Enjoy wonderful views of incredible St. Maarten.

3 Island Ultimate Beach & Snorkel with Lunch

This six-hour day trip in the French Marine Park will take you to see the most beautiful places our island has to offer.

America’s Cup Regatta

Quick Guide

Experience the thrill of racing the famous 12-meter race boats Stars & Stripes, Canada II and True North.

Famed for: Shopping, yacht races and clothingoptional beaches. It’s a Fact: The island is the world’s smallest territory shared by two sovereign states: the Netherlands and France. Signature Souvenirs: Duty-free spirits, including the island’s own guavaberry liqueur, and French fashions. How to Get to Town: Most ships dock at the A.C. Wathey Pier, and taxis can be hired at Wathey Square. Those docking at Great Bay can take the ship’s tender into port, or hop on a water taxi from the ship.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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RUTH PETERKIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Maarten/St. Martin

PORT VIEW

A colorful home in St. Maarten

Things We Love About St. Maarten/St. Martin Do you speak Dutch or French? It really doesn’t matter when you arrive at this Caribbean paradise of two sovereign nations living side-by-side and celebrating distinctive influences from their European roots. And St. Maarten is the only Caribbean stop where all attractions — restaurants, shops and beaches — are a stone’s throw away from the ship, making it one of the easiest island destinations to get around in. Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on the Dutch side, is the more popular of the two stops. Live music wafts through the air and quaintly cobblestoned Front Street is lined with inviting duty-free shops, jewelry stores and boutiques,

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most of which offer a free drink to anyone entering to browse or buy. Wathey Square, across from the white 1793 courthouse that is topped with a cupola, is a lovely spot to stroll in. And both Philipsburg and French-side Marigot have history museums with exhibits going all the way back to the pre-Columbian days of the Arawaks. Philipsburg has grown even lovelier since a revitalization added enhancements, including a boardwalk that meanders between shops and the beach. Not only is it a pretty place to walk on, it also offers a lovely photo opportunity of your cruise ship in the harbor. — Richard Varr

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Island Highlights By Sara Churchville

St. Maarten Flag First flown in 1985 , the St. Maarten flag features the colors of the Netherlands flag — red, white and blue — arranged as the St. Maarten coat of arms within a white triangle intersecting a red color on the top and a blue one beneath. The coat of arms, with a courthouse, a sprig of sage, the sun and a pelican, represents elements of solidarity with the island’s French Antillean neighbors as well as with the Netherlands. Zouk From the French Creole word for “party,” zouk may have originated in the French Antilles, but this style of dance music that combines African drumming with influences from reggae, salsa and 1980s pop music is equally popular in the clubs on the Dutch side of the island. Saba Lace On a small island about 30 miles south of St. Maarten is Saba, where lace-making has been an artisanal tradition since the late 19th century. Mary Gertrude Johnson returned to the island from a Venezuelan convent after having learned the craft, which she then passed on to the local women. Today you don’t need to travel to Saba for the delicate lace. It’s available throughout St. Maarten.

FROM TOP: St. Maarten’s flag; always a party somewhere; delicate Saba lace; colorful blooms.

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PHOTOS BY: ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BOARD; PRESSMASTER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; DOUG RAPHAEL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; AN NGUYEN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Yellow Sage Lantana camara, or yellow sage, is the national flower of St. Maarten, depicted on the island’s coat of arms.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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PHOTOS BY: ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BOARD; JON WILLIAMS

Ports of call | St. Maarten/St. Martin

Boats rest quietly in a serene harbor.

TWO NATIONS,

Side by Side in Harmony By John Anderson

The people of Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin offer proof that having the good fortune to inhabit one small island paradise is all anyone needs to coexist peacefully with folks of another nationality. Beginnings The first settlers on the northeastern Caribbean island were the Arawak Indians, a tribe of Amerindians who migrated northward from the Orinoco river basin of South America, hopping from one island to the next along their journey. Finding an abundance of saltpans and brackish water on the future Franco-Dutch isle, they named it Soualiga, or Land of Salt. Due to the lack of freshwater sources, the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population remained small. A relatively cultured and innovative people, the peaceful Arawaks introduced agriculture and pottery making. Their social structure was ruled by hereditary chieftains, which they believed possessed powers from ancestral deities known as zemis. The tribe established a network of fiefdoms throughout the Caribbean; archaeologists, however, believe the Arawaks on St. Maarten were an independent society and were free of such alliances. In the century leading up to the arrival of Christopher Columbus, the Arawaks were supplanted by the Carib, a more aggressive tribe also from South America for whom the Caribbean is named. The Carib were skilled in the arts of boatbuilding, sailing and war, which explains their dominance over the region. They also harbored large quantities of gold 320

obtained through trade with the mainland, which made them the target of many expeditions. Columbus Sights an Island On his second voyage to the New World in 1493, Columbus sighted the island on his way to the Spanish settlement on Hispaniola. The fortuitous day was November 11, the feast day of St. Maarten of Tours, in whose honor Columbus named the island. There is a dispute among historians as to whether the island Columbus sighted was indeed St. Maarten or the more southerly Nevis. Regardless, the Spanish never took much interest in the 38-square-mile piece of property, and St. Maarten sat mostly uninhabited for 138 years. In 1623, after the English colonized St. Kitts, their first stronghold in the Caribbean, both the French and Dutch followed suit in 1631 with their own settlements on St. Maarten. For their part, the Dutch were in search of an outpost between their colonies in Brazil and New Amsterdam (New York). Once settled, they began producing salt, a precious preservative in the New World. Two years later, upon realizing the commercial potential of the island, the Spanish returned to reclaim their land and ran the settlers off onto neighboring islands.

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PHOTOS BY: ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BOARD; JON WILLIAMS

In 1644, the Dutch attempted to retake St. Maarten and attacked Spanish strongholds, including the fort at Pointe Blanche. Leading the charge was the famed Dutchman Peter Stuyvesant, director of the Dutch West India Company and, later, New Amsterdam’s governor. Stuyvesant lost a leg in the monthlong campaign, thus earning the nickname Peg Leg Pete. Though the Spanish prevailed against the Dutch attack, just four years later, after reevaluating their interests in the Eastern Caribbean, they loaded their ships and sailed away. A Land Divided With the Spaniards gone, the French and Dutch quickly reestablished themselves on the island. After a spate of skirmishes, both nations signed a 1648 treaty atop Mount Concordia that divided the island between them. But despite the treaty and the islanders’ reputation for peaceful coexistence, the border changed 16 times over the next 150 years. Finally, in 1815, the Treaty of Paris established the boundary once and for all. During the 19th century, the island became a busy trading center for the export of salt, cotton and tobacco. And after the introduction of sugarcane, the island’s economy flourished with the growth of plantations. The Scene Today With the abolition of slavery in the mid-19th century, the plantations closed and the island’s prosperity came to an end, ushering in an economic malaise that continued for nearly 100 years. In 1939, the trend was finally reversed when import and export taxes were lifted, paving the way for the economic boom of duty-free shopping. In 1943, the Princess Juliana International Airport was opened, and four years later, the island’s first hotel was built. With large-scale development projects, the Dutch side of the island rapidly became a favorite vacation destination for North Americans and Europeans. In the 1980s, the French side followed suit after new government policies encouraged investment. Nowadays, St. Maarten boasts one of the most lively tourist scenes in the Caribbean.

St. Maarten

Timeline

1493

Christopher Columbus sights the island, naming it St. Martin.

1631 French and Dutch settlers arrive.

1633

The Spanish reclaim the island.

1648

The French and the Dutch sign a treaty that divides the island.

1815

The Treaty of Paris ends the border dispute.

1943 Princess Juliana International Airport opens.

A colorful shopping scene in Philipsburg. Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Ports of call | St. Maarten/St. Martin

St. Maarten CURAÇAO Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

Gucci Bamboo bracelet

Gift Collection Ribbon diamond ring

Fendi Crazy Carats watch

A TALE OF TWO CITIES Philipsburg The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches across a narrow isthmus between the waters of Great Bay to the south and Great Salt Pond to the north. The bustling, contemporary town has two main downtown streets, Front Street and Back Street, spliced by narrow lanes (steegjes) supporting a slew of boutiques, eateries and shopping arcades. It wasn’t so long ago that the city needed only two small streets. But St. Maarten’s boom as a vacation resort changed all that. Two thoroughfares, Cannegieter Street (formerly Pond Fill Road) and Walter Nisbett Road (formerly Ring Road), have been added — through landfill of Salt Pond — to relieve the downtown traffic congestion. Philipsburg was founded in 1733 as a free port, a status it enjoys to this day; it’s known as “the shopping center of the Leewards.” Front Street (Voorstraat) offers the public 16 blocks of every kind of store imaginable carrying duty-free bargains on everything from watches, cameras, liquor, clothing and linens to loose gems and exotic jewelry. Also situated on Front Street is the St. Maarten Museum, where island archaeology and history are reflected in colonial maps, Spanish buttons and pipes, china plates and pottery shards. Back Street (Achterstraat) was once the site of warehouses that stored harvested salt in vast white sacks. Today

most of Philipsburg’s administrative buildings and churches are found along this road. Marigot The capital of French St. Martin is unmistakably Gallic, from the international border sign that reads “Bienvenue en Partie Française” and the khaki-clad gendarme walking his beat to the inviting sidewalk bistros and baguette-laden locals on bicycles. The original town was established in the 1680s, when the fear of raids, forcing the islanders inland to Orléans, had passed. Now stretching from the harbor to Port La Royale on the lagoon, Marigot’s handful of streets have been restored to their original charm and still contain plenty of colonial buildings with wrought-iron balustrades scattered among the more-contemporary, pastel-colored shopping arcades. The old warehouses of the esplanade, Boulevard de France, now contain smart shops and cafés sporting street-front awnings and tables with umbrellas, encouraging folks to linger all day. Visitors to Marigot can spend a leisurely afternoon browsing in chic boutiques and gourmet shops that offer the best of France, stopping in at the small museum devoted to local prehistory or strolling the yacht-filled marina, one of the best people-watching spots in town. — Raymond Niedowski

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BOARD

Shopping in

Danish Design Men's watch

The Dutch and French happily share the two-nation island. 322

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CNABICKUM/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Ports of call | St. Maarten/St. Martin

Market at Marigot Harbor, St. Martin.

Bienvenue en

MARIGOT It may be hard to believe you’re actually stepping on French soil when visiting St. Martin, with its Caribbean breezes and string of pure-sand beaches. The hilly northern half of this dual-nation island is a part of France known as an overseas collectivity. Proof of nationality is quickly discovered at brasseries serving fine French cuisine, boutiques sporting a Parisian flair and supermarket shelves crowded with crusty baguettes. While cruise ships dock in Dutch St. Maarten, day excursions take guests to the heart of Marigot, St. Martin’s laid-back capital, where paintings of flower-filled island scenes hang in galleries along Rue de la République and Rue de la Liberté. Turn a corner or two and you can’t miss the impressive yachts moored within La Royale Marina. Dockside bistros spice freshly caught red snapper and spiny lobster with creamy French and Creole sauces, while the designer shops and boutiques in town are a shopper’s delight. A five-minute walk to the shores of Marigot Bay leads to a popular market where vendor stalls brim with fresh produce, handmade jewelry and carved wooden trinkets. Fine French and international restaurants — some specializing in fusion flavors — line the main street

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of Grand Case, the quaint village on the island’s northern shores. St. Martin’s prettiest beaches are at Orient Bay, a 4-mile stretch of sand often referred to as the Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean. Windsurfers skip across the aquamarine water as they cling to puffy red sails, and parasailers seem to float against the clear blue horizon. Beachside restaurants serve cooling sushi and tangy fish salads alongside upscale French cafés. The exhibit “On the Trail of the Arawaks” at Le Musée de Saint-Martin displays artifacts and pottery from native tribes dating back a few millennia. Just a short drive from the capital, the butterfly farm features hundreds of elaborately patterned insects from throughout the world. Wearing bright Caribbean colors and a touch of citrus-scented cologne might lead to a close encounter with the fluttering creatures. For yet more dramatic Caribbean panoramas, hike up the bluff to Marigot’s aging Fort Louis. The views stretch to St. Maarten’s sailboat-filled coves and beyond — to the mountainous silhouette of neighboring Saba and, in stark contrast, to the flat and peaceful island of Anguilla to the north. — Richard Varr

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Beautiful

BUTTERFLIES By Marty Leshner

Some islanders spend their days sipping nectar under a tropical sky while splendidly hued birds fly by and the lilting sounds of exotic music play in the background. While that image may reflect the lifestyle of the jet-setters vacationing on the island, it’s also the life butterflies enjoy at the butterfly farm, La Ferme des Papillons in Marigot, on the island’s French side. La Ferme is located on St. Martin’s east Atlantic coast, on the road to Bayside Riding Club and Le Galion Beach, close to popular Orient Beach. Since Coward and Slayter founded La Ferme, thousands of visitors have stopped by to see the exquisite butterflies and learn about their four-stage life cycle: from microscopic egg to caterpillar to chrysalis and, finally, to beautiful butterfly. Many species have been imported; others are homegrown in a specially created Butterﬂy Sphere. A visit to La Ferme is a delightful, enriching outing. The grounds contain landscaped gardens, waterfalls and ponds filled with Japanese fish. A refreshment stand and gift shop round out the sprawling complex. Guided tours provide a variety of entertaining butterfly facts and unusual insight into the butterfly’s existence. Information is also available on butterfly gardening. The lush setting offers an oasis of tranquility and harmony while providing an educational experience for people of all ages.

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La Ferme was created in 1994 when two self-described “eccentric” Englishmen, John Coward and William Slayter, chose to share their love of butterflies with the public.

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brilliant BLUE DIAMONDS

fancy YELLOW DIAMONDS

E-mail: info@kaysfinejewelry.com www.kaysfinejewelry.com Friend us on Facebook: Kfj Caribbean

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At home in the water:

THE ST. MAARTEN MARINE PARK By John Anderson

Dive deep With water activities such as boating, fishing and snorkeling an essential part of the St. Maarten experience, the Marine Park is vital to supporting the island’s many attractions. For scuba enthusiasts, there are 28 dive sites within the park boundaries that stretch along St. Maarten’s shoreline, including natural and man-made reefs and ageold shipwrecks. Divers and boaters can explore around the

park’s islets, such as Guana Key, Molly Beday and Cow & Calf, each designated an Important Bird Area for local and migratory birds. Sea-life sanctuary Also located within the park and just off the southernmost tip of the island is the 12-square-mile Man of War Shoal Marine Park. Established in 2010, it is the country’s first legally protected area, which includes a restricted conservation zone. The zone is home to some of the island’s last pristine reefs, as well as a sanctuary for a wide array of marine life. Whales, dolphins, sharks, sea turtles and the rare queen conch flourish in the protected area, with sea life populations increasing by up to 20 percent in just two years since the park’s designation. Eight reefs are also found here, including Proselyte Reef, named for a Spanish warship that sank in 1801. Divers can see a number of period artifacts at the popular and important archaeological site, such as cannons, large anchors, barrel hoops and pottery.

Thanks to the Marine Park's protection, divers get to experience vibrant sea life like this.

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St. Maarten’s many bays and white-sand beaches are obvious draws for visitors to the island. But take a dip off Dawn Beach or in the crystal-blue tidewater of Simpson Bay, or anywhere along the Dutch island’s coastline, and you’re now swimming within the waters of the St. Maarten Marine Park. Established in 1997 by the St. Maarten Nature Foundation to manage, conserve and restore the island’s marine natural and cultural resources, the expansive park extends out from the shoreline to a depth of 65 feet on the east coast and 100 feet in the south.

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Wild Times in the Tropics:

THE ST. MAARTEN ZOOLOGICAL PARK & BOTANICAL GARDEN By John Anderson Lions, tigers and bears? Not quite, but the largest zoo in the Caribbean does offer visitors an up-close and personal view of the flora and fauna of the region, with a colorful collection of more than 300 birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates. Located on the north shore of the Great Salt Pond opposite Philipsburg, the St. Maarten Zoological Park & Botanical Garden opened in 1991 and features a number of rare species indigenous to the neotropics, which also includes Central and South America. The zoo’s origins are said to have been inspired by a popular mini zoo in the backyard of a local policeman, who teamed up with a local veterinarian to build the St. Maarten zoo from the ground up. Monkeys and more Visitors can join a guided tour starting at the main entrance and leading past an exhibit of the capybara, the world’s largest rodent, which can typically weigh up to 140

pounds (think guinea pig on steroids). The zoo has several varieties of monkeys, including the green vervet monkey, which is native to Africa but is now found wild on St. Kitts and St. Martin. The endangered cotton-top tamarin, with its signature mane of flowing white hair, comes from Colombia and is one of the smallest primates — you can catch a glimpse of Willie, who was born at the zoo in 2010. And while you won’t find any tigers or other big predators at the zoo, you can visit Ziggy and Marley, two ocelots with beautiful spotted coats similar to those of jaguars. A range of colorful parrots, macaws and toucans are found in the bird exhibit, along with the bright-red scarlet ibis, which grows redder as it ages. The zoo displays reptiles such as the spectacled caiman, a cousin of the crocodile; resident caimans include Indy, who was rescued from a local restaurant display. And for unwinding after the exciting animal encounters, kids can make like Jack Sparrow on the zoo’s pirate-themed playground and ship.

PHOTOS BY: (MONKEY) VERVET MONKEY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (MACAW) F9PHOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

FROM LEFT: Vervet monkey; blue-and-yellow macaws.

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Visitors can experience the thrill of yacht racing.

PHOTOS BY: SUBBOTINA ANNA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; ANDREY BAYDA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Ports of call | St. Maarten/St. Martin

A DAY AT THE RACES Go ahead, admit it. You’ve always wanted to be a winch wench or a grinder. Or maybe being captain of a ship for a day is more your style. Well, you’re in the right place. St. Maarten/St. Martin is the only island in the Caribbean where novice sailors get the chance to race an authentic America’s Cup yacht. Simply watching these sleek sailboats cut through the water is pretty awesome, too. You may even find a ringside seat right on the deck of your cruise ship. For over 10 years, visitors to Philipsburg have been thrilled to attend the daily 12-meter regatta. The streamlined multimilliondollar sailboats transported to the Caribbean after the 1987 America’s Cup in Fremantle, Australia, race around a shortened America’s Cup course. The fleet includes three Canadian contenders and Dennis Conner’s Stars and Stripes, the proud US vessel that won the cup after racing in nearly 350 individual matches. — Ginger Dingus

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WELCOME TO PORT ST. MAARTEN

LIVE IT. HAVE IT. BE IT.

N°1 ST. MAARTEN N°1 PORT IN THE CARIBBEAN

ON LAND.

ON WATER.

FANTASTIC PHILIPSBURG.

Jeep safaris, bus tours, hikes, guided Harley-Davidson tours, quad bike excursions, casinos, nightlife, zip-lining, butterfly and bird watching, health spas, Maho Beach plane-spotting, you name it we have it.

Snorkelling, deep sea fishing, jet-skiing, yachting, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing, 37 world-class beaches, yacht charters, boat tours, you name it we have it.

Considered the duty-free mecca of the Caribbean, Philipsburg, a mere 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal or a 5-minute ride by water taxi, our “city” awaits the curious cruise passenger Fantastic Philipsburg has something for everyone!

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WHETHER ON LAND OR WATER, THE CHOICES ARE ENDLESS FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS TO SPEND THEIR TIME ON OR AROUND OUR DELIGHTFUL ISLAND. OUR WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER.

37 PRISTINE BEACHES, 300+ GOURMET RESTAURANTS MORE THAN 50 TOURS AND EXCURSIONS. THE DUTY FREE SHOPPING MECCA OF THE CARIBBEAN - PHILIPSBURG. WWW.PORTSTMAARTEN.COM

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Salt mounds

OLD SALTS The story of St. Maarten/St. Martin stretches back to the days when seafaring Amerindians first paddled their dugout canoes to its unspoiled shores. These early explorers, known as Arawaks, soon discovered a valuable commodity: salt.

PHOTO BY: PATRICIA HOFMEESTER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

The worth of their find was not immediately recognized. Even the early European settlers did not exploit the bountiful mineral, choosing to grow sugarcane instead. But when drought struck in the late 1700s, the sweet life was threatened, and at last salt had its day in the sun. On the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first salt-harvesting day in 1789, more than 7,000 people attempted to claim the crusty, crystallized jewels emerging from the dry seabed. The St. Martin Salt Company was born out of the chaos, and during the next three years, an estimated three million barrels of salt were shipped to Europe and North America. Salt production continued well into the 20th century. The practice finally ceased in the late 1940s, leaving a dozen salt ponds scattered around the island. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ginger Dingus

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Special Advertising Feature

The Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit is a non-profit foundation built around Nick’s private collection of rare Hollywood relics. Encouraging kids to strive to be exceptional, there are incredible behind-the-scenes insights that no fan should miss, displays about ALIEN TERMINATOR & MEN IN BLACK and an incredible collection of lifecast faces, Hollywood stars and historical figures, like Johnny Depp & Angelina Jolie, Marlon Brando & Bogart, even Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin.

19a Front Street, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 542-4009 www.thatYodaGuy.com

The Museum Shop sells SIGNED movie relics, posters, behind-the-scenes photos and storyboards… unique autographed slices of STAR WARS history that become an heirloom to pass on through the family. There’s also Nick’s celebrated Caribbean artwork and his famed Caribbean Cruise Ship Map. This romantic map, inscribed with the route of your ship, is dedicated in gold (at no extra charge) for birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries or special occasions. It’s the But, at the height of his career, Nick shocked perfect inexpensive cruise souvenir. his colleagues when he and his wife Gloria traded their Ferrari for a sailboat to pursue With a 20-40% ship discount, the Yoda Guy A MUST SEE for art and movie fans, the museum Nick’s passion for painting... in the Caribbean. Movie Exhibit provides entertainment for the is described by many as the most surprising enHis paintings reflect the serenity to be found whole family. There’s something for every budget terprise in the Caribbean, where rare STAR in simple living, have toured the world with the and if you are lucky enough to find Nick there, WARS production items can be purchased, UNITED NATIONS and hang in galleries he will dedicate purchases and do photos with hand signed, by the stars. customers. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opand museums in 18 countries. portunity to visit a STAR WARS celebrity.

Visitors to sunny St Maarten probably don’t expect to find Darth Vader and Michael Jackson nestled amidst the duty free jewelry stores. But the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit, acclaimed by TripAdvisor as a popular attraction on the island, has that and much, much, more. The Museum is the brainchild of Hollywood creature effects wizard Nick Maley, known as “that Yoda Guy” for his contribution to the creation of Yoda for STAR WARS. Nick worked on over 50 movies, including the SUPERMAN and HIGHLANDER sagas.

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Nick’s biography reads like a romantic novel. He grew up in the midst of the entertainment industry, worked with Hollywood legends like Sean Connery, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Harrison Ford, was featured in CINEMAX and HBO specials, won a place in THE GUINNESS BOOK OF WORLD RECORDS and was nominated for an EMMY.

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Cultural chronicles

ST. MAARTEN MUSEUM BRINGS THE ISLAND’S VARIED HISTORY TO LIFE By John Anderson From its ancient pre-Columbian origins, through turbulent European settlement times and into the modern era, St. Maarten boasts of a rich and varied history. And while it may be difficult to image an Arawak village on the present-day site of a gleaming casino hotel, the St. Maarten Museum helps bring the island’s story to life with an array of artifacts, photographs and reference material. Located down a tree-shaded side street in the capital city of Philipsburg and sandwiched between souvenir and gift shops, the unassuming museum was established in 1993 by the St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation and works closely with such organizations as the St. Maarten Archaeological Center and Musée de Saint-Martin (St. Martin Museum) in Marigot. Forces of nature Nearly every aspect of St. Maarten is explored at the museum, starting roughly 15 million years ago with a fascinating geology that includes a piece of crystallized limestone taken from a rock formation at Port Blanche. A 3D map takes visitors back 1 million years, when St. Maarten was part of a single “super island” with what

is now Anguilla and St. Barts. A sea-level rise of 115 feet and volatile tectonic shits — with frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity — eventually separated the one island into three. Another force of nature, hurricanes, are also chronicled at the museum and show the devastating and lasting effects these storms have had on the development of the island. Visitors can read about past hurricanes and watch a video of monster Hurricane Luis, which hit the island in 1995. Natives and others People have lived on St. Maarten for several millennia, and the museum carefully highlights the many different cultures and eras of the island. An Arawak dugout canoe, or piroque, is on display along with tools and fishing nets employed by the early inhabitants from A.D. 600 to 1200. St. Maarten’s colonial period, beginning with the first Dutch settlement in 1631, is told with early maps and military relics from Fort Amsterdam. A memorable display is a model of the war frigate H.M.S Proselyte. The exhibit includes artifacts from the ship, which sank in full view of Philipsburg in 1801.

PHOTOS BY: (IRON) NATTAPOL SRITONGCOM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (LAMP) EKY STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

The museum shows artifacts like this charcoal iron and oil lamp, used by St. Maarten's Dutch settlers.

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Jewelry Avenue Please come and collect a free pair of earrings

White Diamonds

Blue Diamonds

Black Diamonds

CafĂŠ Diamonds

Jewelry buffet: wide variety of fine jewelry, also tanzanite, emerald, ruby, sapphire, opals, larimar, rainbow topaz, and all birthstones starting from US $10 and up.

Jewelry Avenue Front Street Kannal Steeg Unit 2 Bobbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marina Near Water Taxi Terminal and Green House Philipsburg, St. Maarten N.A. Tel: (721) 542-1237 | Fax (721) 542-1293 | USA (646) 415-7607 E-mail: jewelryavenueinc@hotmail.com

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alor.com

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FACTORY AND DOWNTOWN STORE: PHILIPSBURG, 109 OLD STREET

Passage across Polo Ralph Lauren / Michael Kors Boutique opposite Cartier

PRIVATE YACHT AND CRUISE SHIP SHOPPING: PORT OF SINT MAARTEN OUTLET

Inside Port of Sint Maarten, Harbor Shopping Village, Taxi / tour bus roundabout

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Ports of call | St. Thomas

Charlotte Amalie's harbor still attracts seafaring men and women.

ST. THOMAS

Once the home of notorious pirates such as Captain Kidd and Blackbeard, St. Thomas still offers plenty of treasure in its duty-free shops and remains the commercial capital of the Caribbean. It has a rich history and offers fascinating sightseeing opportunities.

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FUNTREKS

Turtle Cove Sail & Snorkel with Open Bar

Experience the thrill of sailing the crystal clear Caribbean waters on a 65-foot catamaran as well as snorkeling around world famous Buck Island.

St. John Trunk Bay Beach Getaway & Snorkel

Guests sample the many pleasures of the beach at Trunk Bay, one of the world’s most highly rated stretches of sand. After a ferry ride across Pillsbury Sound, visitors travel past Cruz Bay, Hawksnest Bay and well-known Caneel Bay, arriving at Trunk Bay for snorkeling in the crystalline waters.

St. John Champagne Catamaran Sailaway

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A custom-designed catamaran takes guests from Charlotte Amalie Harbor to the island of St. John. A brisk sail across Pillsbury Sound leads to a special anchoring destination for swimming, snorkeling, beachcombing and relaxation. Complimentary champagne and snacks are served before the return trip.

Top 10 Best of St. Thomas & Rum Tasting Join us for the Top 10 views and locations on St. Thomas!

Jeep & Beach Adventure

Enjoy driving a jeep through St. Thomas. After a brief safety orientation, jump in your jeep to begin your narrated journey.

Quick Guide Famed for: A swashbuckling past as the home of pirates such as Blackbeard and Captain Kidd. It’s a Fact: Charlotte Amalie, the island’s capital, was originally called Taphus, from the Dutch word for “beer hall.” Signature Souvenirs: Diamonds, crystal, high-end fashions and perfumes. How to Get to Town: Historic downtown Charlotte Amalie is about 1½ miles from the ship’s dock. Taxis are plentiful.

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Ports of call | St. Thomas

PORT VIEW

Charlotte Amalie sparkles at night.

Things We Love About St. Thomas One of the busiest cruise destinations in the world, Charlotte Amalie is a shopper’s delight. Waterfront Highway and Main Street are a maze of side alleys connected by shopping centers, most notably A. H. Riise. Main Street’s buildings are protected as historic structures, making them a cultural delight as well. Even closer to the docks, you will find Havensight Mall, Yacht Haven Grande and Crown Bay, where dozens of stores and boutiques feature goods of every price. St. Thomas’ historic attractions are well-known and much explored: Fort Christian, with its landmark clock tower dating to 1671; the nearby Government House and Legislature Building, with its bright Caribbean-green façade; and the 346

large mahogany altar inside Frederick Lutheran Church. Also worth a visit is Emancipation Garden, which commemorates the island’s end to slavery in 1848. Near the garden is Vendors Plaza, a source of African artwork, handbags and jewelry. You can take it all in at once on the Skyride to Paradise Point, which carries passengers to the top of Flag Hill. The seven-minute ride offers a fantastic view of Charlotte Amalie and the harbor. Drake’s Seat is a similarly breathtaking vantage point from which the legendary English Vice Admiral Sir Francis Drake supposedly watched the Spanish fleets sail through the harbor below. Today, the view belongs to sun worshippers enjoying the stunning white-sand beach on Magens Bay. — Richard Varr

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Canon cameras and camcorders offer the innovation you need and the reliability you appreciate by delivering high performance paired with superior image quality. With genuine Canon optics and advanced technologies patented by Canon, our exciting product line ranks among the best in its class. Canon reached the 120-millionth EF-series lens production milestone on August 26, 2016. Shown here: EOS 80D with the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, PowerShot SX540 HS, EOS 5D Mark IV with the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens, VIXIA HF G40

www.cla.canon.com

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Ports of call | St. Thomas

Island Highlights

Bananaquit The official bird of the U.S. Virgin Islands, this yellowbreasted chirper is 4 inches long and loves gardens. Like a hummingbird, the bananaquit, or sugarbird, can use its small, curved beak to extract nectar from certain flowers without having to bother pollinating them. Because of its sweet tooth, it’s called a sugar thief in some languages. Banana Daiquiri Where else to indulge in this sweet concoction of rum, bananas, lime juice and sugar than on the island where the flavorful cocktail was invented? The tropical classic was created in the 1950s by bartender Sonny Bernier, who left a legacy worth toasting. Ginger-Thomas As the official flower of the U.S. Virgin Islands, gingerthomas grows abundantly on St. Thomas. Not only do the lovely yellow blooms offer up the scent of Champagne, but its leaves are also said to cure a host of ailments.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Handmade brooms; a delicious banana daiquiri; ginger-thomas flowers; a bananaquit resting on flowers.

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PHOTOS BY: (BROOM) WINAI TEPSUTTINUN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (DRINK) PINKCANDY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (FLOWER) YURIY CHERTOK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BIRD) STUBBLEFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Handmade Brooms Artists make decorative brooms from date palm and thatch palm fronds applied to birch wood. They’re used in local wedding ceremonies that follow the African custom of “jumping the broom.”

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L I F E

I S

A B O U T

M O M E N T S

C E L E B R AT I N G E L E G A N C E S I N C E 1 8 3 0

PETITE PROMESSE STEEL, 44 DIAMONDS 22MM QUARTZ

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Ports of call | St. Thomas

The Quintessential

CARIBBEAN ISLE

As the most developed of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas boasts the distinction of being the Caribbean’s shopping capital and busiest cruise-ship port, with as many as 10 ships docking each day during the thriving tourism season.

By Richard Varr

Beginnings Migrating Amerindian tribes from South America were the first settlers to see St. Thomas’ towering hills and landscapes framed by warm, aquamarine waters. They inhabited the island for 3,000 years before Christopher Columbus first arrived in 1493. Initially spotting St. Thomas and its surrounding islands during his second voyage to the New World, Columbus named the island group Las Once Mil Vírgenes, after the martyred St. Ursula and her companion virgins. The explorer and his crew, however, didn’t stay for very long. Upon dropping anchor to replenish their drinking-water supply, they were met by unfriendly tribes and instead set sail for Puerto Rico. Danish Colonization Although Spain immediately claimed the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas wasn’t highly colonized except by small groups of settlers. This left its shores and natural harbors unguarded, leading to struggles for domination among the Dutch, English and French. It wasn’t until 1671, nearly two centuries after Christopher Columbus first set foot here, that Danish colonization began. The Danish West India Company had sailed two ships to the island, followed by other ships over the next several years. Although illness hampered population growth, more than 300 colonists and slaves were farming over 50 plantations within nine years. Scenic grassy fields on the smaller neighboring islands served as pastures for goats and sheep. By the turn of the 18th century, St. Thomas had become the base for the Caribbean’s legendary pirates, such as Blackbeard and Sir Francis Drake. The island was 350

eventually declared a free port, and as plantations continued to prosper, the slave trade flourished. At the same time, the streets along the shoreline of what is now Charlotte Amalie had become home to taverns, which attracted many seafarers. By the early 1700s, the population had swelled to more than 3,000. The Danish West India Company eventually established plantations on neighboring St. John in 1717, and later bought St. Croix from the French in 1733. With a booming slave trade, tensions and local uprisings increased. In 1792, Denmark proclaimed it would end the slave trade on its islands — a promise that didn’t become a reality until 1848. By the mid-18 0 0s, St. Thomas had become a refueling port for coal-fired steamships that journeyed between North and South America. But low demand for the staple sugar-beet crop thwarted the economic boom created just a few decades earlier. Most islanders today are descendants of the African slaves who brought with them their own culture — from music and crafts to language. Danish influences remain as well, as evidenced today in surnames, street names and architecture. In fact, the port city of Charlotte Amalie was named after a Danish queen. American Interest in the Region The United States first realized the strategic importance of the Virgin Islands during the Civil War when seeking to establish a naval base in the Caribbean. However, no deal was struck until World War I. Fearing Germany would attempt to capture the islands and the Panama Canal, the United States bought the Virgin Islands for $25 million. After more than three centuries of Danish rule, the American flag was hoisted above St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix for the first time in 1917. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, immigrants flooded St. Thomas and tourism helped revive the economy. Today, these idyllic islands remain a U.S. territory and draw tourists and travelers from all over the world.

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

Beyond Charlotte Amalie’s bustling streets and alluring boutiques, scenic vistas from atop the island’s peaking hills are only a quick taxi ride away. And a closer look at the culture here reveals an intriguing past — a mix of native folklore, Spanish conquistadors and marauding pirates who brought their treasures and left behind a legacy of enchanting tales and superstitions for the generations that followed.

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A piece of the Caribbean will stay with you

LLADRÓ BOUTIQUE ST. THOMAS 37 DRONNINGENS GADE (Located inside the A.H. Riise Mall) · ST. THOMAS, USVI 00802 Phone: (340) 776-3503 · FAX: (340) 714-1359 · E-mail: lladrostt@gmail.com lladro.com

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Ports of call | St. Thomas

Don’t be surprised if the 99 Steps take longer to climb than expected — there are actually more than 120.

Charlotte Amalie

WALKABOUT Perhaps no other city in the Caribbean is as well-known as Charlotte Amalie. Thousands of cruise ship guests and other seagoing visitors have made the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands the virtual capital of the Caribbean, at least when it comes to shopping.

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A walking tour that includes some shopping and a refreshment stop is the ideal way to experience the city. The best place to start is Emancipation Park. Walking from the harbor and heading up Fort Pladsen, you will hit Emancipation Park, the site of a historic episode that took place July 3, 1848. Governor-General Peter von Scholten freed the slaves of the Virgin Islands 17 years before emancipation in the United States. A replica of the American Liberty Bell and a sculpture of King Christian V of Denmark are on display. Nearby is the two-story, mint-green House of Legislature of the Virgin Islands. This 118-year-old Italian Renaissance structure was once used as a barracks for Danish police. From 1917, when the US acquired the Virgin Islands, to 1930, it was similarly used by the US Marines. Now the outside staircase leads up to the Senate chambers. Right across the street, you’ll encounter Fort Christian, the oldest building on the island and a landmark dating from 1671. Named after Danish King Christian V, the fort has served over the years as the governor’s house, a church, the police station and the local prison. Today, Fort Christian is a National Historic Landmark currently under renovation.

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Shopping in

St. Thomas CURAÇAO PHOTOS BY: (CHURCH) STEVE HEAP/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BOUTIQUES) RUTH PETERKIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Here’s the ultimate insider guide to what’s hot in town. See it? Like it? Buy it!

Marahlago Flora filigree necklace

Blue Heaven Blue Diamond twist ring

Day2Night Tanzanite reversible earrings

Movado Sapphire watch

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TOP: An alley off Main Street, known for excellent duty-free shopping. RIGHT: The clock tower at historic Fort Christian.

Walk up Tolbod Gade to the intersection of Norre Gade, where the busy Central Post Office stands. While waiting to purchase your stamps, peruse the pretty murals painted by Stevan Dohanos, a former artist for The Saturday Evening Post. From the post office, walk east along Norre Gade and you will come upon the 18th-century Frederick Lutheran Church. The original, Georgian-style structure was rebuilt in 1825 after a fire and reconstructed once again in 1870, after it was damaged in a hurricane. Today, the historic church is still used for worship services. Continue east along Norre Gade to Lille Taarne Gade and turn left. As you climb to Kongens Gade, you’ll pass a handful of law firms before reaching Government House, the official residence and administrative offices of the island’s governor. This three-story building with wrought-iron balconies was built in 1867 for the Danish colonial council. The reception rooms on the first and second floors are open to the public. Several small paintings by former St. Thomas resident and French Impressionist painter Camille Pissarro are on display in the second-floor ballroom. As you climb

the famed 99 Steps to the top of the hill, do not be surprised if it feels like you are tackling more. Despite the name, there are at least 125 steps in all, comprising one of the city’s oldest “streets.” St. Thomas’ Haagensen House sits atop Government Hill. The restored 1820s town house is now a museum featuring authentic West Indian period furnishings and accessories. Adjacent to the museum is a landmark building — Hotel 1829. The original town house has been extended to enhance this hotel, which has accommodated many of the island’s mostfamous guests over the years. You’ll want to go back down the hill to Main Street for shopping. The old warehouses that were once used to store pirates’ booty now house many of Charlotte Amalie’s trendy boutiques and shopping arcades. — Lynn Seldon

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exotic fire opal

brilliant blue diamonds

ST. THOMAS

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E-mail: info@kaysfinejewelry.com www.kaysfinejewelry.com Friend us on Facebook: Kfj Caribbean

9/5/14 9:43 AM

St. John

TROPICAL PARADISE On a sailing trip in the early 1950s, American millionaire Laurance Rockefeller was so bewitched by the lovely, undeveloped isle of St. John that he bought thousands of acres and donated the land to the United States. Because of Rockefeller’s foresight, two thirds of St. John’s 21 square miles officially became the Virgin Islands National Park in 1956. Its tasteful, restrained development is owed to Rockefeller’s influence. The park also includes more than 5,000 acres offshore.

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Birds are abundant in and around the park. As many as 160 species have been recorded in the area. The hawksbill turtle nests on St. John’s beaches, and the green turtle inhabits the island’s waters, particularly at Francis Bay. The park is crisscrossed with clearly mapped hiking trails, some of which were once old Danish roads. Trunk Bay, named one of the world’s 10 best beaches, is famous for its underwater trail, which has markers to guide snorkelers along the reef just off the beach. — Deborah Wilson

This is just one of St. John’s glorious beaches.

PHOTOS BY: (ST. JOHN BEACH) IDREAMPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BENCH) LINDA BROCKMAN; (VIEW) NORM DIVER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.

Ports of call | St. Thomas

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St. Thomas

SHOPPING GUIDE

Almost anything you’re looking for, you’ll find in the ports of call. Not only will the selection amaze you, but the quality of the merchandise is second to none. The stores featured on these pages carry the finest in every product category. You’ll see the famous brand names you know from around the world and many others that you’ve only heard about. Just remember: If you see something you like, buy it!

BOOLCHAND PANDORA An unforgettable moment is something different to every woman, but it’s always special. That’s why an unforgettable moment is a story worth sharing. At Pandora, we believe that every woman in the world has her own unique style, with her own stories to be celebrated and shared. Pandora offers an exciting collection of jewelry with countless possibilities. Every piece in the collection is meticulously designed and crafted using the highest-quality gold, sterling silver and gemstones. Combining centuries-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design, Pandora offers a robust collection that is beyond compare. Pandora Boutique has three locations: 15A Main Street, 340-7743672, pandora.stt@boolchand.com; 9002 Havensight Mall (Building 2), 340-776-8550, pandora.hs@boolchand.com; and Boolchand’s, 31 Main Street, 340-776-0794, jewelry.stt@boolchand.com. For more information about Pandora jewelry, visit Pandora.net.

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CARILOHA Come feel the difference of the softest fabric in the world, Cariloha Bamboo™. Cariloha is the premier retailer of products made from bamboo viscose, including apparel, bedding, active wear, bath towels and more, all made from irresistibly soft bamboo. When you think of bamboo, tall green shoots likely come to mind. But did you know that bamboo can actually be made into the world’s most comfortable fabric? Cariloha’s viscose-from-bamboo fabric is luxuriously soft! It’s also 3 degrees cooler than cotton and naturally wicks moisture away from your body. Bamboo itself contains naturally occurring properties that are odor and allergy resistant. It also provides full UVA/UVB protection, saves more trees, regenerates naturally and is among the most eco-friendly, renewable resources on the planet. Visit any Cariloha store today to pick up a free bamboo lei and to feel the incredible softness of bamboo clothing for yourself. Cariloha — Stay Cool, Wear Bamboo™. Cariloha is located in the Grand Galleria shops at the end of Main Street. DEL SOL ST. THOMAS When you’re looking for unique gifts — exclusive to St. Thomas — the place you shop makes a big difference. You’ll definitely want to experience the exclusive Island Collection of Del Sol St. Thomas, where all clothing and accessories are not only custom to St. Thomas, but they also change colors when exposed to sunlight and then return to their original colors without sunlight. You’ll be reminded of your sunny vacation on the beach every time you step into sunlight and see the colors appear. Make this your one-stop destination for everything St. Thomas. With more than 100 unique-to-St. Thomas clothing options, along with sunglasses, nail polish, hair accessories, jewelry, hats, tote bags and beach toys, there’s something for every age, gender and interest in your family. If you’ve visited another Del Sol store along the cruise route, you’re going to be pleasantly surprised to find an entirely new islandspecific collection when you visit St. Thomas. You can get a T-shirt anywhere, but only Del Sol St. Thomas’ T-shirts perfectly capture your vacation memoires every time they change color outside in the sun. All Del Sol St. Thomas products are guaranteed to change colors for life. Visit today for a free demonstration and a free color-changing gift (no purchase necessary). Del Sol — Just Add Sun! Del Sol St. Thomas is located at the Grand Galleria shops at the end of Main Street. DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL Diamonds International, the most recommended jeweler in the Caribbean, has more than a quarter century of expertise in acquiring luxury goods and jewelry for its discerning clientele. The retailer is celebrated for providing the finest jewels and exceptional variety. Shoppers in the Caribbean have come to appreciate the great value for the latest designer goods from around the world, with a vaster selection than they can find at home.

1. Halo pendant by Forevermark; Diamonds International

ALEX AND ANI We are all connected. This unity enriches our lives. It shows us what can be achieved beyond anything we’d imagine alone. This tribal effect amplifies energy. It amplifies dreams. When we’re connected, we’re more powerful. Alex and Ani is designed to connect you. ALEX AND ANI creates meaningful, eco-conscious jewelry and accessories to positively empower and connect humanity. What Makes Alex and Ani Unique (+) ENERGY is our company philosophy and our promise. What we emanate, we create. We generate (+) ENERGY through ancient symbols, sustainable materials and conscious practices. We arm individuals with knowledge to support personal exploration. We empower them to recognize their gifts and celebrate their unique journey. Our (+) ENERGY ignites the fire within them, and that fuels the fire within us. Positivity is in our roots. It inspires us to carry the light of possibility and to recognize it within one another. Alex and Ani was founded to empower individuals every day. Our company exists to create a higher energy and a better world. Expandable Concept The signature expandable concept is the cornerstone of Alex and Ani. This original concept replaces the traditional clasps with a sliding mechanism, making each piece adjustable. Commemorate your Time in America’s Paradise with our St. Thomas Bangle America's Paradise pulses with energy. A part of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea, St. Thomas holds a wide variety of treasures, from magnificent beaches to a marketplace buzzing with business. With a world-renowned golf course, the 99 Steps and the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, it truly is a sophisticated paradise. Bask in all its cultural, beautiful glory. Alex and Ani is located at 5124 Dronningens Gade, Suite 3. Call 340-774-3636.

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2. Classique Bangle Collection by Alor; Diamonds International 3. Crown of Creation Earrings by Crown of Light; Diamonds International, Diamonds International Watch & Design 4. Bulova watch; Diamonds International, Diamonds International Watch & Design 5. His and hers bamboo T-shirts; Cariloha

Diamonds International exceeds expectations time after time. The exclusive luxury brands carried are also some of the reasons why this retailer is the must-stop-shop for world-class jewelry collectors. Visit any Diamonds International showroom and experience the sparkle of the exclusive, U.S.-patented Crown of Light™ diamond. To best appreciate how each Crown of Light diamond is crafted and measured to perfection, you can compare the Crown of Light to any diamond using the Diamond Light Performance scope. Experience Forevermark, a premium diamond brand from The De Beers Group of Companies. Every Forevermark diamond is inscribed with a unique number and a threefold promise: that it is beautiful, rare and responsibly sourced. Less than one percent of the world´s diamonds are eligible to become a Forevermark diamond. In St. Thomas, it is available exclusively at Diamonds International, at the A.H. Riise Mall on Main Street and throughout the Eastern and Western Caribbean at many Diamonds International locations. These are just a few of the irresistible draws that create customer loyalty at Diamonds International! Visit Tanzanite International at the Grand Galleria, one of the largest tanzanite retailers for more than 20 years and home to the exclusive Safi Kilima™ tanzanite. With rich purple and blue hues, Safi Kilima has masterfully designed collections featuring tanzanite from the heart of Tanzania. You can find other exquisite collections available only at Diamonds International such as Vena d´Amore diamond solitaires, Gift Collection, Sara G diamond jewelry, Day2Night convertible jewelry and the amazing WonderStud diamond earrings. There is something for everyone! Who doesn’t love blue diamonds? Blue Heaven’s breathtaking ocean-blue diamonds will keep the memory of your Caribbean holiday alive for years to come. Diamonds International has many elegant showrooms on the island to serve their devoted shoppers. Find locations at A.H. Riise Mall on Main Street, Havensight Mall, Crown Bay Marina and Marriott Frenchman’s Reef. Call 1-800-444-4025 or 1-340-776-5570 or shop www.DiamondsInternational.com. EDEN JEWELERS A little store with a lot of treasures! Brimming with colored and white diamonds, natural gemstones and custom design jewelry, this little jewelry store has a lot more to offer than the large chain stores. Located in the quieter part of historic Main Street, Eden Jewelers specializes in loose diamonds and bridal sets. There’s a wide selection of stunning and very desirable colored diamond jewelry ranging from canary, pink and café to stunning blue, black and green diamonds. For those who prefer classic white diamonds and colored gemstones, Eden carries superb choices from the current market as well as custom designed jewelry crafted with rubies, emeralds, sapphires, morganites and even rare tanzanite and alexandrite. All gemstone jewelry is crafted with natural stones and comes with a certificate of authenticity. With over 150 jewelry stores to compete against, Eden offers aggressive pricing, great value and, most importantly, the personalized attention of the husband and wife owners. Sunil is a Gemological Institute of America graduate gemologist and his wife Kanchan both work hard to achieve their motto: to satisfy each customer’s jewelry want or need and be there for service beyond the sale. All purchases come with a G.I.A. Graduate Gemologist

Graded Appraisal and a lifetime warranty. In addition, there are convenient US service centers for customers. While visiting Eden, bring home the Destination St. Thomas Sterling Silver Larimar beads, and make certain to see the one-of-a-kind Caribbean Sun necklace with blue and white diamonds. Remember to redeem your free pearl earrings just for trying on a piece of jewelry! Enjoy the sun, the sand, the island piña coladas and the amazing jewelry that the pristine Virgin Islands offer you. Take a detour and visit Eden… it will be a decision you will be glad to have made! Visit Eden Jewelers at 5134 Dronningens Gade, Suite 1. Call 340777-3366 or 877-610-6866. Shop online at www.eden-jewelers.com. GET CHARMED! Charm Factory Outlet Explore the beauty of a unique and original selection of fashion and semiprecious jewelry, featuring the genuine Sandals For Your Neck brand of sandal pendants, charms, bracelets and earrings — hand-enameled and accented with beautiful Swarovski crystals, with 14k yellow or white gold overlay. Try on handmade bracelets and necklaces of pure silk, which can be paired with the store’s exclusive Swarovskicrystal-studded Virgin Islands beads. Hundreds of sterling-silver pendants feature island-inspired themes, such as turtles, palm trees, stingrays, starfish, mermaids and so many more. Stop by and Get Charmed! It’s a must-find treasure — all the bling-bling without the cha-ching! Get Charmed! is at 2329 Commandant Gade (Garden Street, up the road from the Main Street Post Office), at Crown Bay Dock and in the St. Thomas Airport Lounge. Call 340-775-6381, email info@sandalsforyourneck.com or follow on Facebook at Sandals For Your Neck. KAY’S FINE JEWELRY As a family-owned business, Kay’s is proud to have instilled a strong culture of excellence in customer service and care in each and every one of its jewelry and watch boutiques across the Caribbean. We also place a strong emphasis on innovation in jewelry design, producing our own unique collections encompassing the most cutting-edge trends in gemstones and diamonds in the industry. The purchase of a fine timepiece or jewelry is a significant event in our customers’ lives and a highlight of their Caribbean vacation. We personally see to it that each of our guests is taken care of by our knowledgeable staff in a comfortable and relaxed shopping atmosphere. In each of our boutiques across the Caribbean, we have a large selection of diamonds, colored diamonds, rubies, sapphires, tanzanite, ammolite and emeralds. We also carry many exotic gemstones, such as alexandrite, paraiba, tourmaline and imperial topaz. We have bench jewelers in each of our locations to better serve our clientele. Like a stone, but don’t like its setting? No problem! We can customize each and every piece to your specifications. Be sure to stop in to experience “Luxury with a Family Touch.” LLADRÓ BOUTIQUE Lladró is a Spanish brand dedicated since 1953 to the creation of art porcelain figurines at the brand’s only factory in the world, in Valencia. All of the beautiful high-porcelain figurines are handmade to perfection and brought to life. Located inside the A.H. Riise mall at the center of town, the boutique enables visitors to enjoy the world-famous art of exquisite Lladró creations, including local Caribbean collections that

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are especially made for the Caribbean islands and not available anywhere else. Every Lladró piece of work is the result of a laborious artistic process. Every piece begins with a unique artistic inspiration. Our boutique includes special editions and limited-edition figurines that will take your breath away. Our Lladró Boutique is tax and duty free and we offer free shipping to anywhere in the United States, along with a special gift of 20 percent off the retail price. We have many different types of figurines that make a great gift for any occasion or to cherish in your home for the rest of your life! The Lladró Boutique is located at 37 Dronningens Gade. Call 340-776-3503 or email lladrostt@gmail.com. MR. TABLECLOTH Nearly 40 years after opening its doors, Mr. Tablecloth is still providing customers with legendary personal service and an amazing array of tablecloths in modern designs. Don’t be misled — the original Mr. Tablecloth has only one location in downtown St. Thomas. Most of the tablecloths are available in microfiber — an easy-care fabric that is stain-resistant and requires no ironing. For the discriminating buyer, the store also sells exquisite Irish linen and organdy patterns. Also available are the hard-to-find sizes — including tablecloths up to 252 inches long and 90 inches wide, and many patterns in squares and ovals. Mr. Tablecloth in St. Thomas also has a large assortment of accessories for your home: runners, placemats, aprons, bed sheets and shams, to name just a few items. In the store’s clothing section, you will find beautiful handmade infant wear and children’s clothing, day-to-night maxi dresses and super-soft pima cotton nightgowns. The store is also well-known for its beautiful selection of ladies evening jackets, available in a variety of colors. You can find all of these items at a tremendous savings compared to stateside prices. MONTBLANC BOUTIQUE AT ROYAL CARIBBEAN In 1906, three visionaries came together in Hamburg, Germany, to perfect the revolutionary invention of a fountain pen with an internal ink reservoir. Their vision: handmade writing instruments, produced in accordance with the highest demands of technology, design and finish. Today, this uncompromising quality and traditional European craftsmanship still form the unshakable foundation of Montblanc. The white Montblanc star named after the highest mountain in the Europe has long adorned not only fountain pens but also elegant leather goods, precious jewelry, fine accessories and fashionable eyewear. All belong to the Montblanc lifestyle world, as do exclusive watches produced in the Swiss factory of Manufacture Montblanc. The crowning white star marks world-famous luxury goods that represent culture and a special way of life. Montblanc products are contemporary style icons, and as limited editions are coveted collectors’ pieces. Mont Blanc is exclusively available at Royal Caribbean. Main Street and Crown Bay. 340-776-4110 www.royalcaribbeanvi.com

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RADO BOUTIQUE & TISSOT/SWATCH STORE Experience unsurpassed customer satisfaction, selection and service. The Rado, Tissot and Swatch boutique is a branch of Joe’s Jewelry International. We are one of St. Maarten’s first family-owned jewelers and have grown into a duty free jewelry and watch destination for luxury brands. Discover the first Rado boutique in the Americas. You will find the largest collection of ceramic watches. These watches are known to be scratch-proof, harder than nails and elegant. Find your style at the world’s most fashionable Swatch boutique. Swatch is a global brand known for creativity and fun. Pick up your new cutting-edge Tissot watch at the recently opened Tissot Corner. Tissot, established in 1853, Is one of the longestestablished Swiss watch companies, known for great value. It is also the official timekeeper of the NBA. Visit The Rado Boutique and Tissot/Swatch Store St. Thomas at 36A-2 and 37A Dronningens Gade or online at www.joesjewelry. com. Call 340-774-5699 ROYAL CARIBBEAN Discover the best shopping St. Thomas has to offer. With over 45 years in business, Royal Caribbean is known for luxury brand-name watches and jewelry. Royal Caribbean offers an extensive collection of Swiss, German and American handcrafted timepieces from world-famous manufactures such as A. Lange & Söhne, Baume & Mercier, Bomberg, Breguet, Bulova, Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Giuliano Mazzuoli, Glashütte Original, Gucci, IWC, Michele, Montblanc, Panerai, Philip Stein, Piaget, Rado, Raymond Weil, Roger Dubuis, SevenFriday, Shinola, TW Steel and Vacheron Constantin. For fashion-conscious and trend-savvy shoppers, Royal Caribbean carries Anne Klein, Bering, Fruitz by Philip Stein, Fossil, Guess, Ice, Invicta, Luminox, Seiko, and the highly sought after Michael Kors watch line. Royal Caribbean also has the two largest camera and electronic stores in the Virgin Islands. Come in and get the latest in digital SLR cameras, point and shoot cameras, portable audio and binoculars. An authorized dealer for top brands such as Canon, GoPro, Fuji, Nikon, Leica, Olympus, Ricoh and Sony, Royal Caribbean also carries Beats, Skullcandy, JBL and Harmon Kardon wifi and bluetooth compatible speakers. Royal Caribbean now carries sunglasses! Get the latest styles from Bolle, Bottega Veneta, Carrera, Cartier, Calvin Klein, Chopard, Costa Del Mar, Etnia Barcelona, Etro, Fossil, Gucci, Kate Spade, Nike, Puma, Revo, Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Serengeti, Tom Ford and Vuarnet. At Royal Caribbean, you will be captivated by the most exquisite collection of Hearts on Fire, the world’s most perfectly cut diamond. Come in and see our superb collection of fancy yellow, pink, blue, chocolate and white diamonds. Royal Caribbean has the finest Platinum, 14kt and 18kt gold set jewelry, the largest selection of Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire and Tanzanite jewelry and a vast selection of semi-precious pieces. Perfect for that special someone are the world-renowned Mikimoto cultured pearls. Pamper yourself with designer jewelry brands like True Love Blue Diamonds, Breuning and Rebecca. Also available is a wide assortment of everything

6. Hearts on Fire Aerial ring ;Royal Caribbean 7. David Yurman Pure Form Cable Bracelet in 18K Gold ;Diamonds International 8. Flora filigree necklace by Marahlago; Diamonds International 9. Chameleon watch by Fendi; Diamonds International Watch & Design, Diamonds International 10. A variety of linens; Mr. Tablecloth

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for a challenge. TISSOT PRS 516. A VERY SPECIAL CHRONOGRAPH PIECE WITH A VINTAGE TOUCH THAT PAYS HOMAGE TO RACING CARS. THE SEMI-HOLES IN THE STRAP ILLUSTRATE THE HOLES IN THE OLD STEERING WHEELS.

TISSOT BOUTIQUE 40B FRONT STREET, PHILIPSBURG, ST. MAARTEN 721-543-7020 TISSOT SUPER CORNER WATERFRONT, AH RIISE MALL, 36A-2 & 37A DRONNINGENS GADE, ST. THOMAS USVI 00802 340-774-5699

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Ports of call | St. Thomas

Royal Caribbean offers huge savings in all categories and our knowledgeable sales associates will assist making your selection more enjoyable. Mention this ad and receive a free gemstone with the possibility to upgrade to a ring, earring and pendant. In St. Thomas, Royal Caribbean has two locations on Main Street open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. We also have multiple locations at the Crown Bay Center and open as per ship calls. 340-776-4110 www.royalcaribbeanvi.com THE SHOPS AT YACHT HAVEN GRANDE Voted Best Shopping in the USVI five years in a row by the Virgin Islands Daily News readership poll and home to St. Thomas’ only Louis Vuitton and Gucci boutiques, The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande is home to BCBGMaxAzria, Everything But Water, Orogold Cosmetics, Sunglass Hut, Perfumania and many more. Set in lush tropical grounds with views of our neighboring mega-yacht marina and adjacent cruise ship dock, The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande provides an escape from the bustling downtown scene. Here you can unwind and take your time browsing our exceptional retail offerings, grab a coffee or relax over a sumptuous meal. Quench your thirst and whet your appetite at The Shops’ waterfront restaurants. Fat Turtle serves up casual fare and fresh island drinks in a fun atmosphere, while the casually elegant Grande Cru delivers innovative cuisine and hand crafted cocktails. Enjoy Mediterranean dishes with an island twist at Fresh Bistro or grab something to go from Urban Eats. Relax and pamper yourself at Prana Spa or treat yourself to a new look at Sugar and Spice Artistry Salon. Discover locally made jewelry, art, crafts and gifts to remember your stay — you can even bring something home for your pets! The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande has an ever-changing calendar of entertainment, events and free activities for your healthy lifestyle. Enjoy live music at one of our restaurants or at a concert event. Sample locally grown produce at the Farmers’ Market. Play games on the lawn or change up your vacation workout routine with a free Zumba, yoga or Tai Chi class. Don’t miss our family-friendly Halloween, Christmas and Easter festivities! Check our calendar posted on our website and throughout the property. The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande — your island experience starts here. Call 340-775-8200; visit www.shopsatyhg.com; like us on Facebook.com/YHGSt.Thomas. THE BELGIAN CHOCOLATE FACTORY Come experience delightful chocolates in America’s paradise, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands! Chocolate is a perfect way to bring a taste of paradise home to your friends and family. Our Belgian chocolates are made with the finest ingredients, free of preservatives or additives. They are filled with a variety of eight flavored buttercreams, such as banana, mango, passion fruit and raspberry, and eight flavored ganaches, such as coffee, Baileys and Cruzan Rum raisin. We have five different caramels, creamy whipped pralines, peanut butter, truffles, nut clusters and simply more chocolate. Over 50 varieties are available, including sweet, salty and spicy flavors. Each chocolate is handmade using traditional methods! Our chocolates are not the same as the sugary treats offered in American chocolate shops. We also have frozen treats like ice cream,

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chocolate-covered bananas, Key lime pie and cheesecake on a stick. Other items include ice-cold beverages, marshmallow sticks, chocolate bars, lollipops, s’mores, turtles and chocolate-dipped Oreos and pretzels, as well as spa products, coffee, tea, coolers, T-shirts, tanks and other souvenirs. Why Belgian chocolate? When it comes to chocolates, there are the everyday candy bars we consume and the more exotic chocolates found in coffee houses and specialty stores. Then there is Belgian chocolate. Belgian chocolate is considered to be the gourmet standard by which all other chocolate confections are measured. What makes Belgian chocolate unique is the quality of ingredients and an almost fanatical adherence to Old World manufacturing techniques. Do you crave only the finest-quality chocolate? We present some of the most exquisite top-quality chocolate you can hope to enjoy. You may choose from over 50 varieties of dark, white or milk chocolate and fill a box with whatever assortment you desire! Lollipops, hand-rolled truffles, sugar-free chocolate and other treats are also available. Indulge your senses with the rich decadent aroma of chocolate as you watch through the glass wall while the chocolatier prepares authentic homemade Belgian chocolates fresh each day. Chocolate is the perfect way to bring a “taste” of paradise home to your friends and family! A well-presented box of chocolates always makes a great gift. Expertly styled, well-presented boxes and hampers will never fail to impress. Also available are “peace, love & chocolate” T-shirts and seasonal specialties. Discover for yourself why customers keep coming back for our best-selling chocolates. Visit us at 5093 Dronningens Gade, Suite 3, call us at 340-777-5247 or visit www.thebelgianchocolatefactory.com. TISSOT BOUTIQUE The Tissot Boutique is located in the heart of St. Thomas, directly on Main Street in downtown Charlotte Amalie. If you want to SHOP! that’s where you want to be. You will find the best selection and prices in the Caribbean. At the Tissot Boutique, you will find several appealing brands of watches at tax and duty free prices. Starting with Swatch, a fun watch with a great starting price point of only US $50. Some of the other quality Swiss watch brands found in our store are Calvin Klein, Mido, Frederique Constant and a wide selection of Hamilton, the American spirit timekeeper. Tissot, the Swiss watchmaking company, was founded in LeLocle, Switzerland, in 1853 and Tissot still operates there today. All the movements found in Tissot watches are high-quality Swiss ETA's supplied by their parent company. Tissot has an increasing popularity and now is sold in 160 countries. Tissot has been partners with several sporting groups like MotoGP, Rugby (RBS), Ice Hockey (IIHF) and the Tour de France, and is now the official timekeeper of the NBA. Why shop at our store? Being the only official Tissot Boutique in St. Thomas, we are going to have the largest selection including limited editions, NBA and solid 18k gold timepieces. We are official retailers for all the brands we carry. Being a family owned business we care about our customers. Come visit us and get the personalized service you deserve. Call 340-776-3504 or email tissotstt@gmail.com.

11. Rado DiaMaster watch; Royal Caribbean 12. Bulgari ring ;Royal Caribbean 13. Mark Henry clover design pendant with four oval shape natural alexandrites; Beverly's Jewelers 14. Korite Tennis Bracelet ;Diamonds International 15. Philip Stein watch; Diamonds International Watch & Design, Royal Caribbean

SPECI A L A DV ERT ISING FE AT U R E

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The #1 Linen Shop in the Caribbean

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Handmade Infant & Toddler Wear Placemats Runners

OUR ONLY LOCATION

5180 Dronningens Gade, Ste 1 • St. Thomas, U.S.V.I 00802 MAIL & ON-LINE ORDERS ACCEPTED (340) 774-4343 • www.mrtablecloth-vi.com

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OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port

AN ARTIST’S JOURNEY By Michael De Freitas

Body Glove Body Glove is Main Street's No. 1 spot for the largest selection of men's and women's swimwear at the lowest prices! We also have a large selection of beach gear, including rash guards and snorkel gear. Stop by today! Open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

5563 Dronningens Gade 340-774-BODY (2639) bodyglove.com

Eden Living At Eden Living you’ll find a wide variety of local art and other goods, all handcrafted in the U.S.A.: pottery; prints; soaps and hot sauces; ceramics and glass; hand-painted silk and cotton clothing for men and women; and unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry. We carry home accessories such as clocks, wind chimes, mirrors, glassware and flatware; and wearable art including silk sarongs and shawls, a flax linen collection and Anushka hand-painted leather. Our resident artist on site is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University who holds a bachelor of fine arts in ceramics and textiles. Worldwide shipping is available.

Camille Pissarro, one of the most influential artists of 19th-century French impressionism, was born in a small Spanish Sephardic Jewish community in Charlotte Amalie. At the age of 12, Pissarro left the Caribbean for boarding school in Paris. Later, he returned to St. Thomas to help his merchant father run the family store on Main Street. But his heart was not in the business, and he spent every minute of his spare time painting. Pissarro returned to Paris in 1855 to study under a variety of masters. Four years later, the young artist held his first exhibition at the prestigious Paris Salon. Pissarro died at the age of 73 at his home in Éragny, just north of Paris, and his paintings still grace the walls of many of Europe’s major museums. Today, his boyhood home at 14 Main Street houses the Pissarro gallery, which contains numerous artworks. A teacher as well as a painter, Pissarro taught several future masters of the art world. He was described as godlike by many of his students, including Paul Gauguin, Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne.

5135 Dronningens Gade / 340-775-3366

Waterfront Trading Company

5190 Dronningens Gade, Suite 2 340-244-4164

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PHOTO BY: MUSÉE D’ORSAY

Take Home a Taste of the Tropics We offer Caribbean hot sauces, spices, tropical candies, teas, coffees and rum cake. We specialize in hand-painted ornaments, local art, maps, children's books and unique gifts from St. Thomas, Down Island and around the world. Camille Pissarro’s The Road of Louveciennes, painted in 1872.

Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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Fun Ashore Carnival Cruise Line

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ST. ROSE ARCADE • UNIT #35-02 • PHILIPSBURG, ST. MAARTEN • NETHERLANDS ANTILLES PHONE: & FAX: 599-542 8122 • E-MAIL: MIKEPWJ@YAHOO.COM 9A MAIN STREET • ST. THOMAS, USVI 00802 • E-MAIL: SALES@PRINCESSJEWELERS.COM WWW.PRINCESSJEWELERS.COM

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BE PART OF OUR STORY Kirk Freeport Plaza Ltd. has been a premier retailer of duty-free jewelry, watches, fragrances, leather, crystal, china, and accessories in the Cayman Islands since 1972.

TRADITION : QUALITY : SELECTION Owned by the Kirkconnell family, local business and community leaders for six generations, Kirk Freeport is proud to be the Official Rolex Retailer of the Cayman Islands. Visit Bayshore Mall: Home to the largest jewelry and watch store in the Caribbean, hosting the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sought after luxury brands, local eateries, pharmacy, souvenirs, free Wi-Fi, and much more. Look for the red

TURN RIGHT WHEN YOU EXIT THE PORT

roofed mall on the George Town waterfront

Bayshore Mall & Cardinall Ave Grand Cayman : 345 949 7477 : kirkfreeport.com

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Shop for KORITE jewelry exclusively at

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