MSC Buon Gusto 2020 by ppigroup

BUON GUSTO MSC CRUISES 2019-2020

CARIBBEAN NIGHT LIGHTS Getting to Know the Stars Above

OCEAN CAY

More Than Just a Private Island

MARTHA STEWART CRUISING MSC and Martha: A Match Made in Paradise

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Bill Panoff Publisher Linda Douthat Associate Publisher/Creative Director Phillip Crandall, Grant Balfour Managing Editors Chanel Samson Copy Editor Caroline Geertz, Skip Anderson Art Directors Laura Roche Senior Art Director Tammy Robinson Ads Services Director Alexandria Geubelle Creative Assistant Maria Atanasov, Jennifer Billock, Jamie Carter, Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, Kevin Revolinski, Heidi Sarna, Richard Varr Contributing Writers

Billock

Carter

Greaves-Gabbadon

Iris Gersh Proofreader Alamy, Getty Images, Oma Bohemian Style Contributing Photographers Martha Stewart aboard MSC Meraviglia in New York City in October 2019. By Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for MSC Cruises Cover Image Corporate Headquarters: PPI Group 6261 NW 6th Way, Suite 100 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA Phone: (954) 377-7777 • Fax: (954) 377-7000 Email: bpanoff@ppigroup.com Website: www.ppigroup.com For advertising information, contact sales@ppigroup.com Sharon Cherry Vice President, Brand Sales and Development Brett Grady Director, Global Sales Richard Collins Regional Sales Manager

Bill Panoff CEO/Chairman William P. Jordan III President Audrey Balbiers-Panoff Chief Operating Officer Jose I. Martin Chief Financial Officer Linda Douthat Senior Vice President, Publishing Piero Vitale Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy & Financial Planning Sharon Cherry Vice President, Brand Sales and Development Christina Hunting Vice President, Digital Marketing Soren Domlesky Director of Technology Patti Lankford Executive Assistant to the CEO Please address all correspondence to Buon Gusto c/o PPI Group Corporate Headquarters Buon Gusto is distributed aboard MSC Armonia, MSC Divina, MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seaside. Printed in Canada. © 2019 Panoff Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Buon Gusto is published under contract to PPI Group. The contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction, either in whole or in part, including but not limited to transmission by any means, in any form — digital, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise — is forbidden without express written permission from the publisher. The magazine assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photography, artwork or other material. Electronic queries only will be acknowledged. Email to editorial@ppigroup. com. Any prices quoted are subject to change, but correct at press time. Commentary and opinions expressed in Buon Gusto are not necessarily those of the publisher or cruise line. MSC Cruises and PPI Group are not responsible for any claims or offers made in advertisements appearing in Buon Gusto.

Revolinski

Sarna

Varr

CONTRIBUTORS

JENNIFER BILLOCK is a Milwaukee-based culinary travel writer.

Her work has appeared in publications including Tea Magazine, Taste of Home Magazine, Healthy Cooking Magazine, World Travel Buzz, Broughton Quarterly and The Ambler. Her book Images of America: Keweenaw County is out now. JAMIE CARTER is a journalist and author whose passion is making the night sky accessible to all travelers. He can be found anywhere travel and astronomy intersect, and for his book, A Stargazing Program For Beginners, he traveled in search of dark skies to national parks and wilderness areas in Utah, Arizona, France, Australia, the Canary Islands and Peru. SARAH GREAVES-GABBADON is a Caribbean travel expert, awardwinning travel journalist, and TV personality. As jetsetter-in-chief at JetSetSarah.com, Sarah ventures to the beach and beyond, sharing the diverse culture, relaxed lifestyle and colorful people of the world’s favorite warm-weather destination. Follow her adventures on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @JetSetSarah. KEVIN REVOLINSKI has lived abroad in Italy, Panama and Guatemala, writing for Rough Guide guidebooks, Caribbean Travel & Life, Chicago Tribune, and Wisconsin State Journal, as well as writing a memoir, The Yogurt Man Cometh: Tales of an American Teacher in Turkey. HEIDI SARNA is a freelance writer living in Singapore with her husband and twin boys. Author of Frommer’s Singapore Day-by-Day Guide, Sarna is also a regular columnist for Frommers.com and has written for magazines, newspapers, and websites, including CNN.com, Forbestraveler.com, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel Weekly, Seatrade Cruise Review and the Straits Times. RICHARD VARR, a Houston-based former TV reporter, has written for USA Today, AOL Travel, the Dallas Morning News, Porthole Cruise Magazine, Islands, Sydney Morning Herald, Good Sam Club’s Highways and AAA’s Home & Away. Richard also wrote the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide to Philadelphia & the Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

MSC CRUISES

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If it can survive being ejected from a plane, it can survive near enough anything. Should you treat your Bremont MB watch with respect? Not really. We don’t. We freeze it, we bake it, and we shake it. For hours on end. Then we shoot it out of a plane. Just to make sure it’s as tough as we claim it is. What’s more, it has been assembled and tested at our headquarters in Henley-on-Thames. So don’t worry about looking after a Bremont MB. It can look after itself. MB 10TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION

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Contents

From the Publisher Sail 4 Fabulous Ships

FEATURES

PORTS

80 Basseterre

Belize City

82 Bridgetown 83 Cartagena 84

Charlotte Amalie

Costa Maya

88 Cozumel 90

George Town

Isla de Roatan

Key West

98 Miami 99

Montego Bay

100 Nassau 104

New York

105

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

106

Ocho Rios

112 Oranjestad 113 Philipsburg 116

Road Town

117

San Juan

118

St. John’s

119 Willemstad 12

Meet Martha

Martha Stewart shares her passion for inspiring travel experiences, authentic cuisine and her love of celebrations. Maria Atanasov

Going Green

An Environmental Turnaround Story Heidi Sarna

A Cruising Capsule Wardrobe

Packing perfectly is no longer just about deciding whether to fold or roll your clothes. Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Treasure Hunting

All around the Caribbean, many islands have their own jewels and traditions, often found nowhere else. Richard Varr

Nature’s Medicine

Look around — natural plant solutions can be found all over the Caribbean. Jennifer Billock

Caribbean Night Lights

Thank your lucky stars you’re here, where the show in the sky is second to none. Jamie Carter

Drink Locally

Between the craft brewing and craft distilling, there has never been a better time for those who live by this mantra. Kevin Revolinski

GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES

WELCOME ABOARD

14 16

MSC CRUISES

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Cruising Creates Connections

hen you’ve been involved with the cruise world as long as I have, something interesting happens every time you look at a map: Your mind starts filling in the lines

between the destinations. In fact, the old ocean liners were originally

called “liners” because they followed a line back and forth, connecting two points that had previously been separated by an ocean. On nautical charts today, you’ll still see those lines right there on the map. Places that used to be worlds apart are now more connected than ever. Connections between places are what cruising is all about, and what we’ve strived to highlight with the stories in this issue of Buon Gusto. Every destination featured here and included on your itinerary boasts its own unique culture, and we’re sure you’ll not only experience each culture at its finest and most pure, but inevitably celebrate it in a way that stays with you for years to come. And with that celebration, you’ll no doubt see the connections with how you live and celebrate your own life. After all, it’s nice to be reminded not just that we are all connected, but how we’re connected as well. I hope this issue of Buon Gusto inspires you to seek out new mysteries to ponder wherever your travels take you, and whatever new connections you make. Happy cruising!

Bill Panoff Publisher

MSC CRUISES

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Sail

Fabulous Ships to the Caribbean

ISCOVER THE CARIBBEAN

2019 Travel Weekly Magellan Gold

Enjoy the luxury of

with MSC Cruises on the

Award for Overall Contemporary

MSC Yacht Club

world's most beautiful ships.

Ship. Dine al fresco on the widest

The MSC Yacht Club is a premium,

Indulge in a vacation of a lifetime on

boardwalk at sea, catch a Broadway-

all-inclusive “ship within a ship”

MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC

style show nightly and sooth your

concept, available on MSC Seaside,

Divina and MSC Armonia. Just like the

senses in the Balinese-style MSC

MSC Meraviglia and MSC Divina.

exotic destinations you’ll encounter, the

Aurea Spa, the largest spa at sea.

With 24-hour butler service and

endless amenities each ship features

The magnificent MSC Meraviglia is

private amenities, this unique

will delight you at every turn. Plan

a wonder mega-ship, featuring a jaw-

experience is tailored to guests looking

a festive reunion, a celebration or

dropping LED dome light show in the

for added exclusivity while enjoying

meeting at sea, or simply gather the

central promenade and two exclusive

the choices and amenities offered on a

family and set sail for the Caribbean!

shows by Cirque du Soleil at Sea,

larger ship.

performed in a purpose-built venue, Be amazed by the revolutionary design, impressive spa and stunning shows One look at MSC Seaside’s iconic

the Carousel Lounge. MSC Divina, an elegant ship inspired by Italian screen goddess

Sailings from Tampa beginning in November 2020 A smaller, classic ship, MSC Armonia,

Sophia Loren with dazzling

which currently sails 7 nights from

Miami Beach condo design and

Swarovski crystal staircases and

Miami, will begin 4, 5 and 7-night

open-air spaces and you’ll see why

ultramodern décor, lets you choose

cruises to the Western Caribbean

the ship was awarded 2017 Best New

shorter and longer itineraries with

in November 2020 from the port of

Ship by Cruise Critic and won the

3, 5, 7 and 11-night sailings.

Tampa. MSC Armonia will call on

MSC CRUISES

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Ocean Cay, Key West, Cozumel, Costa Maya and Progreso, Mexico. Discover Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our new private island Ocean Cay is MSC Cruises’ ecofriendly 95-acre island in the Bahamas, just south of Bimini. Founded on a deep MSC CRUISES (2); DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN; GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES (2)

commitment to ecological principles, Ocean Cay guests can explore eight pristine beaches, learn about the island’s coral restoration efforts and enjoy activities ranging from snorkeling to stargazing. Thanks to extended late-night stays, guests can enjoy a spectacular sunset, beach bonfire, Junkanoo parade and watch the island’s iconic 98-foot lighthouse come to life with a breathtaking light show. Each of these four MSC ships will call on the island, on various itineraries throughout the season.

Discover the beauty of the Caribbean on four of the world's most beautiful ships: MSC Seaside, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Divina and MSC Armonia.

Travel like a local on Martha Stewart excursions Explore the hidden gems of the Caribbean on exclusive Martha Stewart–inspired excursions and learn about local culture. Participate in a cooking class, taste authentic local cuisine, hike to a secluded cove, or explore a botanic garden. Aboard, celebrate life’s special milestones with Martha Stewart celebration packages and enjoy Martha Stewart menus during selected holidays. Make your vacation dreams come true on MSC Cruises, sailing the most beautiful ships to the Caribbean and over 200 destinations worldwide. n

Visit msccruises.com MSC CRUISES

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Amber Cove ∙ Antigua ∙ Aruba ∙ Barbados ∙ Belize ∙ Bermuda Cabo San Lucas ∙ Costa Maya ∙ Cozumel ∙ Curacao ∙ Grand Cayman Grand Turk ∙ Jamaica ∙ Key West ∙ Orlando ∙ Nassau ∙ Puerto Vallarta Roatan ∙ San Juan ∙ St. Kitts ∙ St. Lucia ∙ St. Maarten ∙ St. Thomas ∙ Tortola 1-800-51-JEWEL ∙ DiamondsInternational.com

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Lifestyle expert and good-living guru Martha Stewart shares her passion for inspiring travel experiences, authentic cuisine and her love of celebrations with MSC Cruises on board and ashore.

MSC CRUISES

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Meet Martha

BY MARIA ATANASOV

HERE’S NO STOPPING MARTHA Stewart,

birthdays, anniversaries and honeymoons, as well as

America’s most trusted lifestyle expert,

onboard special holiday dinner menus and recipes

whose “how-to” advice on all aspects of

that are free to all guests for Thanksgiving, Christmas,

living, from cooking, entertaining and

Hanukkah, New Year’s and Easter, representing

gardening to home renovating, crafting,

Martha Stewart’s know-how when it comes to

weddings and holidays, has been espoused

hosting delicious meals with friends and family.

over the years through her magazines,

The marriage with MSC Cruises showcases

books (85 and counting) and television

Martha Stewart’s strengths, while also remaining

shows, including a third season of Emmy-

true to her humble beginnings. We sat down with the

Award winning Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party

powerhouse behind the eponymous brand to learn

Challenge, with co-host American rapper (and fellow

more about her passions.

entrepreneur) Snoop Dogg. All this, while simultaneously creating a loyal following with her Martha Stewart line of products that now adorn more than 70 million homes, with

I like to joke that the initials stand for Martha Stewart

everything from bed linens and bath towels, to dishware,

Cruises, so partnering with MSC was the obvious

picture frames and, yes, even her own line of wines.

choice. But seriously, I’ve always enjoyed introducing

Now, the icon is bringing her flair to MSC Cruises

DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

Why did you partner with MSC Cruises?

my friends, family and fans to new experiences. I’m

on exclusive culinary and discovery experiences both

thrilled to be working with MSC Cruises on a partnership

on board and ashore. The partnership — themed

that embodies the true celebratory nature of travel,

Celebrate, Discover, Experience — includes specially

exploration and discovery. The excursions showcase

curated shore excursions that highlight authentic

some of my favorite activities and help MSC Cruises’

local favorites and hidden gems such as hands-on

guests discover some of the authentic and hidden

culinary classes and tastings, horseback riding in

treasures of destinations throughout the Caribbean.

the ocean, hikes to hidden coves, lessons from local

The holiday dinner menus and surprise gift packages

fishermen, farm and garden tours, and visits to historic

encompass what I believe celebrations should include:

homes. The partnership also includes celebration

good food, good company and commemorating great

surprise gift packages for special milestones such as

adventures and inspiration wherever we are.

MSC CRUISES

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I like to joke that the initials stand for Martha Stewart Cruises, so partnering with MSC was the obvious choice.

What do you look for when you travel? No matter where I travel, for business or pleasure, I

identify a plant species — taking in the fresh air and birdsong. Gardening is a labor of love, done with the

prepare a list of botanical gardens, nurseries and private

hope of sharing natural beauty (and a little ingenuity,

gardens that I’d like to visit. An avid experimenter and

of course) with as wide an audience as possible.

nearly lifelong gardener, I’m particularly interested

In Nassau, with MSC Cruises, we are offering a Bush

in learning about native plants, local conditions and

Tea Tour, with a visit to Retreat Gardens, run by the

how both influence design and maintenance. I’ve been

Bahamian National Trust, to learn about native bush

fortunate to travel to many different warm-weather and

plants used for tea and other medicinal purposes. In

tropical climates, and to learn about the plants I can

St. John, we’re hiking on a trail to Waterlemon Cay in

successfully tend in my greenhouse in Bedford, New

stunning Virgin Islands National Park. In St. Maarten,

York, as well as methods to extend the growing season.

we’re exploring indigenous plants at the Emilio Wilson Estate, the site of a former plantation. And in Ocho Rios, we’re visiting Konoko Falls and its tropical gardens, before touring an organic farm.

Tell me about your passion for organic food and farming. My tasting experiments continually grow more adventurous! Like many of you, I often travel for work, which means I’m food shopping or eating out away from home. But the same rules apply: I’m totally entranced with fresh, organic and sustainable. I was raised to eat real food, and as an avid and passionate gardener, this approach comes naturally to me. Whether in the comfort of my own home or away, I seek out simple, true flavors. Growing up, long before the necessity of sustainable resources was understood and the word “organic” became popularized, my family kept a small bucket next to the kitchen sink where all food scraps (except meat

trailing plants and bursting blooms, but also many

or fat) were deposited. The bucket was emptied every

species of creatures who rely on trees, plants and flowers

day onto the compost heap at the back of the yard.

for their continued survival. When traveling, or when

Our compost heap was a model of efficiency: Very little

I have downtime, I prefer to be in nature: walking the

in our household went to waste. Our leaves were mulched

paths of a garden, taking photos, challenging myself to

in fall and added in layers to the garden refuse, the coffee

DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

For those who appreciate both plants and animals, botanical gardens offer not only impressive foliage,

MSC CRUISES

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COURTESY MARTHA STEWART

DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

grounds, the vegetable scraps. When we went fishing, we

instilled in me a set of organic-gardening practices

gutted and scaled our catch right into the garden soil.

and good habits for healthy soil and plants that I

My dad talked with excitement about the transformation of these scraps into “black gold,” a substance he said would revitalize his backyard gardens, adding nutrients back to the soil. This early inspiration

regularly employ. The way we grew things has become part of my everyday gardening habits and a real part of my life’s work. To that end, a couple of our excursions with MSC focus MSC CRUISES

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Preparing food for a crowd seemed like second nature to me; in grade school, I organized all the birthday parties in the neighborhood.

on organic farming. In Costa Maya, we’re visiting an organic pineapple farm, then eating authentic Mayan dishes infused with pineapple juice right there at the coop. In Ocho Rios, island chef Miss T is taking us on a tour of her organic farm, then cooking up a storm of Jamaican dishes for us to taste, with produce, like hot Scotch bonnet peppers, picked on her farm.

How did you fall in love with cooking? I grew up in a large Polish family. My mother, Big Martha, had an army to cook for, and she did so with ease and reliability. We were the beneficiaries daily of variety and fresh ingredients. We had lots of homemade cookies and cakes and pies, to keep our sweet teeth happy and fulfilled. Preparing food for a crowd seemed like second nature to me; in grade school, I organized all the birthday parties in the neighborhood. My first “catered” party was a breakfast of heroic proportions for the high school football team. After college, when I married and traveled to Europe for the first time, my serious culinary education began. I

kitchen. I taught a cooking class to my daughter and her friends. Then, tentatively, I placed an ad in a local paper offering my services as a caterer, only to find

learned to appreciate the way of arranging food on the

myself preparing for a sweltering August wedding for

plate, of folding napkins and setting the table. Back in

300 guests! My confidence failed me momentarily, when

New York, where I worked as a stockbroker, I had the

the top tier of the wedding cake nearly slipped to the

opportunity of dining in some of the finest restaurants,

ground — I took a deep breath and pushed it back into

known both for exquisite cuisine and attentive service.

place. It was a very good party, and I was hooked.

In our New York City apartment kitchen, I tangled with

My passion for cooking was my calling. For me,

herbs and tomato plants. I worked through Julia Child’s

cooking isn’t about pomp or show or elaborate technique:

Mastering the Art of French Cooking, determined to try

Cooking is about thought, effort and caring. Food is an

every recipe.

adventure to be shared. And it’s the little things that

Believe it or not, my catering business began by chance. I knew I enjoyed cooking, and experimenting in the 24

make the difference. With MSC Cruises, cooking and culinary takes

MSC CRUISES

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DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

center stage on many of the excursions we’ve curated.

Beyond cooking, what most people may not

In San Juan, we’re doing a culinary walking tour

know about you is that you are also an avid

of five tasting stops, with a hands-on cooking class

angler. How long have you been fishing?

making cocktails and mofongo. In St. John, after our

Fishing — bluefish, cod, crabs, pike, pickerel,

hike, we’re tasting West Indian coal-pot cooking. In

salmon, trout, tuna — has been one of my favorite

Cozumel, we’re visiting a farmer’s market, tasting

hobbies since I was a young girl. My father fished

tequila, paired with traditional Mayan codzitos, and

for food, less for sport. He introduced us children to

making three kinds of margaritas. A good margarita

line fishing at a young age. Dad would rouse us at 3

depends on the quality of its ingredients, and I always

a.m. on Saturdays in late August and September to

use the best tequila you can find…. And in St. Maarten,

pile in the car and drive to Neptune, New Jersey. “The

we’re running a cooking demonstration and cooking

blues are running,” he’d urge. “We have to hurry.”

class making Creole red snapper and johnnycakes. The

We would present ourselves promptly at 6 a.m. to

possibilities for what we can do are endless, especially

board the Optimist Queen. Retired freighter Captain

in the Caribbean, with its rich spice culture.

Charlie Dodd’s 50-foot “party boat” accommodated MSC CRUISES

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up to 30 anglers. The bluefish were lured by chum

tour wouldn’t be complete without tasting the delicious

that smelled terrible, but performed the desired effect.

Honduran seafood.

When the first fish took a lure, there was always a great roar of enthusiasm. Because it was a party boat, there

The excursions also feature horseback riding.

was a pool of money contributed by the passengers for

Do you ride?

the largest fish, the first fish and the most fish of the

You’re right. We’re riding horses bareback into the

day. Once, I caught not only the first blue, but also the

Caribbean Sea in Grand Cayman. I rode with Coral Stone

largest and the most — 85. I collected an impressive

Stables owner Noland Stewart in April, and I can assure

$77 and so many fish we had to give some away!

you it’s a beautiful experience. These horses really do take

Since those childhood trips, I’ve had the opportunity to journey in search of sport and food. I’ve been

you for a swim! I took up horseback riding about 15 years ago.

canoeing and fishing on Pickerel Pond in the Berkshires,

Horseback riding has become one of my favorite weekend

catching wild, tasty pike and pickerel. I’ve also been

activities. For several years, I’ve been the proud caretaker

trout fishing in Montana and Argentina for 20-inch

of five handsome, friendly Friesian horses: Rutger,

browns and rainbows. I’ve fished for salmon in Alaska,

Ramon, Meindert, Rinze and Sasa. My grandchildren so

Arctic char in Newfoundland and gigged for flounder

enjoyed riding, we also added a bright-eye Fell pony with

in Gulfport, Mississippi. Having a summer home in the

a beautiful black coat, Ben Chunch.

Hamptons, I’ve fished for tuna off the coast of Montauk.

My daughter, Alexis, presented me with Clive and

Crabbing, clamming, trophy fishing and fly fishing —

Rufus, my sweet donkeys, over a decade ago. Since then

what I catch matters less than the catching. For me,

we’ve added Billie, Jude Junior and Truman Junior (the

the opportunity to be in nature is as good as it gets!

last two donkeys being named by my grandchildren)! n

MSC Cruises that takes an in-depth look at the fishing

To book a Martha Stewart excursion, visit

villages and fishing culture of the island. Of course, the

the shore excursion desk on board.

With MSC Cruises, cooking and culinary takes center stage on many of the excursions we’ve curated. 26

DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

That’s why in Roatán we’ve developed a tour with

MSC CRUISES

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ANTIGUA – Diamonds International ARUBA – Diamonds International, Kay’s Fine Jewelry BAHAMAS (Nassau) - DI Watch & Design, Diamonds International, Kay’s Fine Jewelry BARBADOS – DI Watch & Design, Diamonds International, Milano Diamond Gallery BELIZE – DI Watch & Design BERMUDA –Diamonds International CABO SAN LUCAS – DI Watch & Design COSTA MAYA – DI Watch & Design COZUMEL – DI Watch & Design, Diamonds International, Forum Shops CURAÇAO –Freeport Jewelry & Gift Shop, Diamonds International DOMINICAN REPUBLIC- Diamonds International GRAND CAYMAN – Island Time, Diamonds International, GRAND TURK- Diamonds International, Mark Henry Boutique GRENADA – Milano Diamond Gallery JAMAICA (Falmouth) - Philip Stein Boutique JAMAICA (Ocho Rios) - Jewels & Time, Diamonds International JAMAICA (Shoppes of Rose Hall) - Jewels & Time KEY WEST – Diamonds International PUERTO RICO – Blue Diamond, Diamonds International PUERTO VALLARTA – Diamonds International ROATAN –Diamonds International ST. KITTS – Diamonds International, Kay’s Fine Jewelry, Gold Mine ST. LUCIA – Diamonds International ST. MAARTEN –Diamonds International, Majesty Jewelers, Joe’s Jewelry International ST. THOMAS – Philip Stein Boutique, DI Watch & Design, Diamonds International, Bliss Jewelers, Grand Jewelers TORTOLA –Diamonds International

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going green BY HEIDI SARNA

As the world acknowledges the challenges facing the environment, companies like MSC Cruises are stepping up to make a difference. In the beautiful Bahamas, a vast archipelago of islands and cays surrounded by stunning blue waters and silky white sand, MSC has staked its claim as a leader in sound sustainability initiatives and practices, with its impressive restoration of the marine environment surrounding Ocean Cay, an island some 65 miles east of Miami, Florida, and 20 miles south of Bimini. With support from the Government of The Bahamas, 64 square miles of waters around Ocean Cay have been designated as a Marine Protected Area (MPA).

GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES

An Environmental Turnaround Story

MSC CRUISES

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MSC CRUISES

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Deeply committed to ecological principles and to sharing the wonders

bars are made of recycled industrialized pressed wood. “There was no need for

of the ocean and natural

us to build extensively

environment with guests,

on an island that already

MSC has spent more

had the ingredients of a

than $300 million since

natural paradise,” says

breaking ground on the

MSC Cruises’ CEO Gianni

project in January 2017 to

Onorato. “However, we

painstakingly clean up and

have undertaken extensive

revitalize Ocean Cay, with

work to cleanup the island,

a focus on the restoration

removing tons of historic

of endangered corals

industrial waste and helping

and the re-introduction

to return the beaches,

of native plants.

and the entire 64 square

The island was left

miles of protected waters

abandoned, uninhabited

surrounding the island,

and severely polluted in

to their pristine state.”

2015, after millions of tons of the finest aragonite sand were extracted from the island and exported to beaches throughout Florida and the Caribbean. Returned to its former natural glory and given a new lease on life, the flourishing island destination now known as Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a featured port of call on all cruises out of Miami. The island underscores MSC’s vision to immerse guests in a Bahamian island by threading vital tenets of

MSC Cruises’ Ocean Cay Conservation Strategy

Jamaican dogwood to the

back, while a significant

beach morning glory; in

stand of the non-native

In reclaiming the native

across the island, from the

and palms were brought

all, more than 95 percent

invasive Australian

every aspect of Ocean Cay.

flora and biodiversity of

of all newly planted species

pine was removed.

This encompasses how

the island, indigenous

will be native species. A

the venues are built — all

trees, grasses, flowers and

total of some 75,000 plants

in the waters surrounding

cabanas and the beach

shrubs were reintroduced

including 5,000 trees

Ocean Cay has been a

sustainability throughout

The restoration of coral

MSC (2); GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES

the natural beauty of

MSC CRUISES

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Another conservation

major focus, as coral is an

in waters around Ocean

integral part of the marine

Cay — particularly the

priority is the island’s

ecosystem. Coral provides

more endangered varieties

wetland area, which

a habitat for marine

such as elkhorn coral.

supports a significant and once-again thriving

life and it also protects

As the seabed returns to

coastlines from erosion.

normal, Ocean Cay’s team of

birdlife, with populations

marine biologists is seeing

of herons, pelicans, white

marine biologists and expert

an increase in marine life

ibis and crane birds

divers carefully relocated

around the island, including

frequently calling the island

400 individual healthy hard

some 88 different species

on their flying routes.

To that end, a team of

coral colonies from the

of fish as well as lobster,

dredging zone in an effort

green sea turtles and rays.

Ocean Cay Activities The Ocean Cay MSC

to protect their continued

Ocean Cay is also a habitat

growth. The long-term

of the important queen

Marine Reserve isn’t just

vision is to encourage coral

conch, a large sea snail that

a beautiful natural setting

to grow and repopulate in

lives in the seagrass beds

and a great environmental

a newly established and

around the island and helps

turnaround story — it’s

monitored coral nursery

to keep the water clean.

also a port of call offering two miles of beautiful white sandy shoreline comprising eight distinct beaches, each with their own vibe and character. The half-mile-long Sunset Beach, for instance, is the largest stretch of sand on the island, while the Lagoon is the place to enjoy a variety of watersports, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) and kayaking. Meanwhile, the smaller Seakers Family Cove is a shallow, calm lagoon with powdery sand and plenty of games geared to families with younger

MSC (2); GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES

children. All eight beaches are lined with sunbeds, and shade seekers can rent cabanas on some beaches as well. Active excursions on Ocean Cay range from snorkel safaris to kayak MSC CRUISES

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Ships remain docked at Ocean Cay into the evening, paving the way for romantic sunset catamaran excursions, stargazing under the flawless Bahamian sky and other special island experiences.

on the island are supported

sent for recycling in dedicated

its fleet and shore-side

adventures. Even diving

by the MSC Foundation,

port reception facilities in

operations — from single-

is available with PADI

an entity created in 2018

Miami and the Bahamas.

use plastic straws, cups and

to champion causes that

Mirroring the policy of the

butter and jam containers,

protect the oceans and

MSC fleet, no wastewater

to shopping bags.

qualified instructors. Unlike other cruise line private islands, MSC Cruises’

marine environment.

from the island will be

“MSC Cruises has grown

discharged in the sea. Simply

and evolved since day

including plastic water

put, the principles of Ocean

one with a mind-set to

bottles, are discouraged

Cay MSC Marine Reserve

respect the environment

romantic sunset catamaran

and not sold on Ocean

align with the company-

and the oceans, and has

excursions, stargazing under

Cay. (There are water

wide mission of treating the

unceasingly taken action

ships remain docked

Single-use plastics,

at Ocean Cay into the evening, paving the way for

the flawless Bahamian

fountains across the

environment with respect

to reduce its impact on

sky and other special

island.) Some 123,000

and engaging in sustainable

the environment,” says

island experiences.

gallons of drinkable water

practices for the good of all.

Roberto Fusaro, President

comes from desalinated

Walking the Walk The very nature of the

Over the years, MSC

water pumped from an

Cruises has been meeting and

island well. Additionally,

exceeding its environmental

of MSC Cruises USA. As a beautiful lowimpact destination, the

island’s operations gel with

a portion of the island’s

objectives in various ways.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine

MSC Cruises’ overriding

energy is generated by a

The line installed sustainable

Reserve offers MSC Cruises’

sustainability pledge. Some

solar farm, which produces

refillable soap and shampoo

guests an incredible

90 percent of the more than

600 kW of electric power.

dispensers in cabins a decade

opportunity to discover the

140 members of Ocean Cay

Further, all glass and

ago, and more recently

wonders of the ocean and

staff are Bahamian, while

metal packaging waste on

eliminated virtually all

ecosystems in this special

the conservation activities

Ocean Cay is collected and

single-use plastics from

part of the world. n

CONRAD SCHUTT/MSC CRUISES

tours and paddle boarding

MSC CRUISES

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RELAX, REJUVENATE AND REENERGIZE IN THE LARGEST BALINESE SPA AT SEA Enjoy sensory experiences and pampering pleasures at the MSC Aurea Spa. Revitalize your body and soul with a tempting variety of treatments: • Over 20 exotic Balinese massages and beauty rituals • Thermal area/saunas/sensory showers/snow rooms/whirlpools and solariums • Outdoor cabanas with ocean views offering a relaxing couple’s massage • Hair, nails, skin and anti-aging treatments

MS C C RU I SES. C O M

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Spa treatments and amenities vary per ship

11/25/19 11:04 AM

I spent the day soaking up the sun. And at night, I shined.

Global Customer Service | Follow us on Facebook Member of the Dufry Group, a Swiss company established in 1865 and operating in over 60 countries. · Antigua & Barbuda · Aruba · Bahamas (Exuma, Freeport & Nassau) · Barbados · Grenada · Honduras (Roatan) · Mexico (Cancun, Cozumel) · · Puerto Rico · Santo Domingo · St. Kitts · St. Lucia · St. Maarten · Turks & Caicos (Grand Turk & Providenciales) · TAX FREE & DUTY FREE

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A CRUISING capsule

WARDROBE

Packing perfectly is no longer just about deciding whether to fold or roll your clothes. BY SARAH GREAVES-GABBADON

REHULIAN YEVHEN/GETTY IMAGES

As exciting as it can be, for most women, packing for a cruise presents a unique challenge. On one hand, there’s no limit to the amount of bags you can bring with you. On the other, no one wants to share his or her cabin with a gargantuan suitcase! But you also don’t want to find yourself at sea (literally!) without the appropriate garments for the day’s activities, whether that’s sporty kicks for the running track or a snazzy outfit for formal night. Our sartorial suggestion: Refer to this packing list of 10 essential items and look on point every moment you’re aboard.

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Maxi Dress Once reserved for evenings and formal events, maxi dresses are the modern way to look pretty and pulled together, day or night. Minimize ironing by choosing a knit jersey (heavier knits drape better) and maximize versatility by choosing a solid or pattern in a color that coordinates with the rest of your clothing. Tip: Savvy travelers build their wardrobe around two or three colors, ideally one or two neutrals such as black, white or gray, plus a complementary hue such as scarlet,

REHULIAN YEVHEN/GETTY IMAGES

turquoise or lime green. Brands to Browse: ASOS, New York & Company, Gap

MSC CRUISES

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9. 2. Short Dress

shorts, jeans or skirt day

as statement sleeves,

to wear with pants or a skirt

The ultimate in fuss-free

after day, but they will

embellishment or a deep-V

in the evening.

fashion, a dress is the one-

notice your top, so choose

back for added interest.

Brands To Browse:

piece wonder every cruiser

wisely. For a seven-day

Complete your quota with

Talbots, Free People, Loft

should have. For maximum

cruise, pack at least two

a loose button-down shirt

practicality, choose one in

white T-shirts (plus perhaps

(which can double as a

4. Shorts/Skort

a wrinkle-resistant knit

an additional one if you’re

swimsuit cover-up); a floaty,

Whether you favor high-

and a solid color or stripe

a spiller). Boat-neck tees

crinkle-cotton long-sleeved

waist hot pants or hip-slung

that works with the rest of

flatter most, and those

blouse (to keep cool while

Bermudas, two pairs of

your wardrobe. Sleeveless

without pockets offer a

protecting you from the

shorts can see you through a

or short-sleeved styles can

cleaner silhouette. Also

sun); and something in a

weeklong Caribbean cruise

be layered under a jacket or

look out for accents such

dressier fabric such as silk

in style. Denim, cotton

shawl for chilly evenings on

canvas or khaki fabrics are

deck or as a dressier dinner

a great backdrop for bright

outfit. For a casual daytime

colored or patterned tops,

look, wear the dress as you

and can be worn day after

would a skirt, with a T-shirt

day without notice. Skorts

or blouse on top.

(also called scooters) offer

Brands To Browse: Old Navy, J.Crew, Tommy Bahama

the look of a skirt with the practicality of shorts underneath, so they’re a great option for windy days,

3. Tops

golf or other active pursuits.

No one will notice if you’re

Brands To Browse:

wearing the same pair of

J.Crew, Target, Gap

TOMMY BAHAMA; ADIDAS; REHULIAN YEVHEN/GETTY IMAGES; J.CREW; TIEKS

MSC CRUISES

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Clockwise from top left: Garden Oasis Halter Dress by Tommy Bahama; Adidas Originals; Tops are models' own; Gold waterfall statement earrings by J.Crew; ballet flats by Tieks

5. Swimwear Designers have gone beyond the traditional bikini or maillot to offer swimsuits that’ll make you the belle of the beach. Long-sleeved swimsuits (also called spring suits) provide maximum sun-protection and sleek surfer style. Off-theshoulder styles go from deck to dinner when worn as tops and paired with shorts or maxi skirts. And a rash guard (a long-sleeved top made of swim material)

Don’t underestimate the power of a striking necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings to make even a simple T-shirt dress dinnerappropriate.

7. jumpsuit or the shortslength romper. Choose from slinky knits (perfect for evening wear) or more casual denim and chambray

offers SPF, modesty and

styles, which are perfect for

style when worn over any

a day in port or lounging

two-piece.

on deck. A leather belt

Brands To Browse:

and wedges elevates the

J.Crew, Lands’ End, Roxy

look, or dress it down with espadrilles and a straw tote.

6. Jumpsuit/Romper

Brands To Browse:

Another workhorse of

Loft, Anthropologie,

one-piece dressing is the

Free People

7. Statement Jewelry Even the most nondescript outfit is instantly upgraded with bold accessories, so don’t underestimate the power of a striking necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings to make even a simple T-shirt dress dinnerappropriate. Pack a cloth pouch with one or two pairs of statement earrings (tasseled styles are having a moment); a bold cuff or

MSC CRUISES

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bangle; and a multi-strand

workout wear styles and fabrics

necklace in a metal finish and/

beyond the gym). This season,

or bright color and you can take

sneakers with sock-like knit

your outfits from day to night

textiles and no visible laces are

and back again with ease.

particularly popular, offering

Brands To Browse:

a polished yet practical look.

J.Crew, Kate Spade New York,

Pack a pair and rest assured

BaubleBar

that you’ll be ready for anything

8. Embellished Flats

a few minutes on the treadmill,

the cruise brings, whether it’s Think you have to wear high

strolling the promenade deck or

heels on formal night or for an

navigating waterfalls during a

elegant dinner? Think again. A

shore excursion.

pair of flat shoes or one with

Brands To Browse: Skechers,

a small heel such as a mule or

Puma, Adidas

slide can be just as appropriate as a stiletto, especially when

10. Flip-Flops

they’re in a metallic color or

The rubber-thong sandal is a

adorned with embellishments

warm-weather vacation classic

such as feathers, crystals or

for a reason: it’s inexpensive,

even pom-poms. Bonus: In the

suits almost every foot, and

event of rough seas, you’ll feel

takes up little space in your

much more stable in flat shoes.

suitcase. Buy the cheapest

Brands To Browse: Sam

pair you can find or splurge on

Edelman, Tory Burch, Tieks

a designer brand; either way, your flip-flops will take you

9. Sneakers

effortlessly to the pool, the spa

Athletic footwear has been

or beach.

strongly influenced in the last

Brands To Browse:

few years by the athleisure

Havaianas, Tory Burch, Tidal

trend (wearing traditional

New York n

10.

Oh, and 10 For Men Too Left: Havaianas trio stripe flip flops in ice blue; Right: menswear by J.Crew

Guys can dress to impress with these 10 practical and stylish pieces. - Button-down shirt - T-shirt or polo - Jeans or khaki pants - Dress pants - Navy/dark blazer - Windbreaker/light jacket - Dress shoes - Flip-flops - Sneakers/sporty sandals

HAVAIANAS; J.CREW

- Shorts

MSC CRUISES

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#EffyMoments

EffyJewelr y.com FINE

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JE WELRY

E S T.

1979

11/21/19 12:15 PM

GET EXCLUSIVE ONBOARD CREDITS AND SAVINGS WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR NEXT CRUISE NOW! Visit the MSC Future Cruise desk to book your next dream vacation at sea while enjoying this amazing cruise. Apply the onboard credits you’ll earn for future upgrades on your next cruise: • • • • •

Have your pick of the best stateroom selections Add to your culinary journey with specialty dining Toast with refreshing drink packages Treat yourself to spa treatments Take adventurous excursions and more

Each onboard booking comes with:

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MSCCRUISESUSA.COM Offer subject to change. Ships’ registry: Panama and Malta.

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Exclusively sold at Diamonds International & Tanzanite International SafiKilima.com amber cove antigua aruba barbados belize bermuda cabo san lucas costa maya cozumel curacao grand cayman grand turk jamaica key west orlando nassau puerto vallarta roatan san juan st. kitts st. lucia st. maarten st. thomas tortola

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MSC CRUISES

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Treasure Hunting

THEMASKARUBA.COM; JOHN GOLLOP/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

BY RICHARD VARR

All around the Caribbean, many islands have their own jewels and traditions, often found nowhere else.

MSC CRUISES

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here’s an expression for every mood: frowning, laughing,

smiling and even a smart-aleck grin. They’re

emblazoned across brightly colored masks hanging on the walls, some with piercing eyes that stare. And ornately patterned pottery pieces line the display cases along with figurines of cats, butterflies, lizards and elephants showcasing a collage of cool blues, goldentoned yellows and muted earthen red hues. Walk into any store in Aruba selling the island’s unique mopa mopa art and you’ll find color schemes with seemingly hand-painted preciseness

the Caribbean’s extensive

and beauty. Surprisingly,

colonial history. While

however, the designs and

barnacled cannons are

creative swirls are not

always an exciting find, if

painted but instead tinted

you look closely enough —

and shaped using delicate

or if you’re just lucky —

tree resin layers through

you may run across small

a traditional handicraft

treasures and cultural

process dating back more

sitems found nowhere else.

or vegetable dyes for color. Unique to this handeddown art form over the generations is how the gum is processed — pulled into thin sheets by workers using their hands and mouth. Resin layers are finally stretched onto wood and

than a millennium.

Mopa Mopa

“They say the masks scare off bad spirits in the house,”

The process of forming

unique art forms, souvenirs

mopa mopa’s colorful layers

says Maria Lopez, whose

and even treasures of sorts

stems from the Quillacingas

family owns several Aruba

found only on certain

Indians of northern

Caribbean islands. Some

Ecuador and southwestern

are natural, like shiny

Colombia. They picked

conch pearls sold in Nassau.

the leaf buds from mopa

Others, including the

mopa trees, boiled them

smooth glass blue beads

to form a gummy resin

of St. Eustatius, highlight

and then added mineral

Aruban souvenirs include mopa mopa pieces from The Mask (above and previous page) and djucu nut jewelry from Oma Bohemian Style on Pelican Pier (right).

art stores including The Mask in the Renaissance Mall. “The Quillacingas tribe explains that you’re supposed to choose the first one that ‘speaks’ to you — that was made for you.”

THEMASKARUBA.COM; OMA BOHEMIAN STYLE: PELICAN PIER

Mopa mopa is just one example of some of the

then trimmed with a knife.

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THEMASKARUBA.COM; OMA BOHEMIAN STYLE: PELICAN PIER

Lucky Stones Also unique to desertlike Aruba and neighboring Curaçao are decorative djucu nuts, often threaded into jewelry and keepsakes. Round, smooth and fitting in the palm of your hand, brown and black djucus grow on trees in Venezuela and wash down rivers into the southern Caribbean Sea. They’re swept away by ocean currents all the way to island beaches after weeks afloat. The locals say finding the nuts will give you luck. Jewelers and vendors selling from kiosks string them together to create necklaces, bracelets, earrings and other unique pieces. Djucus are also known as “lucky stones,” as some believe they not only bring good luck but good health as well. Thus they’re often found in casinos, worn by gamblers as good luck charms on chains around the neck, with some set in gold.

Brown and black djucus grow on trees in Venezuela and wash down rivers into the southern Caribbean Sea. They’re swept away by ocean currents all the way to island beaches after weeks afloat. The locals say finding the nuts will give you luck. MSC CRUISES

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Saba Lace A unique Caribbean tradition hails from the rocky and mountainous Dutch island of Saba, just off the shores of St. Maarten.

Pink Pearls

Shops in the hilly and green village of Windwardside

While decorative conch shells and tasty conch

sell so-called Saba lace —

dishes including fritters,

napkins, scarves, blouses

salads and chowders are

and other garments with

found throughout the

patterns delicately handstitched by local women.

Caribbean, shiny and

“You really have to like it and

pink conch pearls are extremely rare. Yet they

I do,” says Imelda Peterson,

shimmer in The Bahamas,

a local resident who has

“They’re one of the rarest

been involved with the

Nonetheless, they’re formed naturally smooth,

needlecraft since she was a

natural pearls,” says Andrew

often with a flame-like

child. “If you’re going to put

Parker, the marketing

pattern. “They look like

in the amount of work and

manager of Nassau store

candy — good enough to

time, you do it right.”

Coin of the Realm, noting

eat,” says Andrea P. Major,

Peterson is one of a dozen

his shop has one of the

President of The Bahamas

or more women that often

largest collections of conch

Historical Society. “They’re

work together in group

pearls in the world. “Conch

just a conglomerate of

meetings to continue the

pearls are estimated to occur

natural wonder. They’re not

nearly century-and-a-half

in only one out of every

cheap, but they’re lovely.”

tradition. It started in the

Parker says the rare

1870s when a young Saban

10,000 conch, and of that only a few percent are nice

finds are usually made

woman left the island to

enough for jewelry.”

by fishermen who sell the

study at a Venezuela convent

pearls to jewelers. Conch

where nuns taught her the

reddish tones to orange and

pearl sizes can range from

art of sewing lace. Upon

ivory, but they’re mostly

a tiny grain to some of the

her return, other island

known as “pink pearls” —

largest pieces found, maybe

women learned the craft,

coincidentally similar hues

30 and 40 carats, as they are

which eventually became

to some Bahamian natural

often weighed like diamonds,

a mail-order business

Their colors can vary from

pink-tinted sand beaches.

rubies and emeralds.

with colorful lace designs

Technically, however,

They’re added to pendants,

dotting dresses, tablecloths,

conch pearls are not pearls

earrings and necklaces that

because they’re calcium

can cost several hundred

carbonate concretions from

dollars up to $20,000

the queen conch as opposed

and $30,000 and higher.

to nacre, or mother-of-

“Everything is custom made

pearl, as found in oysters

around the shape of each

and other mollusks.

conch pearl,” says Parker.

18k gold, 4ct. conch pearl and diamond leaf pendant (above); Saba lace pattern book and lace detail (right) and blue beads from St. Eustatius (far bottom right).

pillowcases and more. Also known as “Spanish Work,” Saba lace remains a means of support for some families. “It’s a souvenir of Saba that’s made on Saba,” says Peterson. Yet continuing

COIN OF THE REALM LTD.; INGRID ZAGERS/Z.EPHOTOGRAPHY (2); CEES TIMMERS/STATIATOURISM.COM

if you know where to look.

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the tradition has been at times a struggle as it’s often

considered a lucky find. “They were used by the people

once considered currency.

over the years and have

Made mostly in Amsterdam,

stringed them into necklaces

difficult to get younger people

of St. Eustatius 200-300

they were traded in Africa

and other ornamental

interested in the craft. “We’re

years ago, so you can feel

and thus involved with the

jewelry. “In the ’70s, they

willing to teach anyone and

history in your hands,” says

slave trade. Also round and

found them by the handfuls,”

everyone who’s interested in

Walter Hellebrand, a Statia

having other shapes, the

he says.

it,” she says.

native and the island’s

beads got their color from

monument director. “I

cobalt used during the glass-

deemed them such an

making process.

Blue Beads Also off the shores of

important part of our culture

Once plentiful on the

If you’re lucky enough to find one, Hellebrand urges not to take it home, lamenting the

St. Maarten, the dormant

and heritage that I included

island, blue beads are

local museum’s blue bead

volcano known as The Quill

them when designing the

now hard to find. “They’re

collection was stolen.

dominates the view on the

coat of arms of our island. So

becoming more and more

small Dutch island of St.

they’re a part of one of our

of a rarity because so many

heritage — taking them

Eustatius, known locally

national symbols.”

have been taken off the

means our heritage is

island,” explains Hellebrand.

leaving the island,” he says.

as Statia, where plucking

The mostly pentagonalshaped glass beads were

Yet many longtime residents

up on island beaches is

used for barter and thus

have collected blue beads

“If I can change one person’s mind, it’s worth it.” n

COIN OF THE REALM LTD.; INGRID ZAGERS/Z.EPHOTOGRAPHY (2); CEES TIMMERS/STATIATOURISM.COM

historic blue beads washed

“They’re part of our cultural

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Look around — natural plant solutions can be found all over the Caribbean.

Nature’s Medicine

BY JENNIFER BILLOCK

Call it what you will — bush medicine,

Aloe Vera

folk remedies or jungle medicine —

the magical ingredient in gels and

proper name: good health. Traditionally, flora growing throughout the region

too much time in the sun. It’s the same in the Caribbean; the clear gel inside the leaf soothes pain and speeds up healing time from cuts

has been used to heal ailments of all

and burns. To the Caribbean people,

kinds, everything from colds and flus

plant” because its benefits reach

though, it’s known as “the miracle

to more intense issues like infections

far. Drinking the gel as an herbal

and parasites. And the best thing about

ailments, from bronchitis to colds,

bush medicine is it’s freely available,

strong laxative used to purify the

tonic relieves all types of breathing and the browner-colored gel is a

growing out in the wild. Check out these

body’s digestive tract. If you put

10 indigenous island plants that have

dandruff as well as strengthening

long cured what ails the people of — and

Plus, aloe can prevent both scars

visitors to — the Caribbean.

lotions that eases the burn from

the gel on your head, it helps ease the hair and encouraging it to grow. and wrinkles. Miracle plant, indeed.

MARIDAV/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

but Caribbean mothers call it by the

We know this as sunburn relief,

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MARIDAV/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

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Fever grass This grass is actually quite common — we put it in tea

skin that matches the bark on the tree, which is also red and peels away. And

and smoothies, and use

the tree helps cure it, too.

it as a seasoning in meals.

Boiled strips of bark can be

But we know it by another

laid over sunburns to speed

name: lemongrass. In the

up healing. The bark strips

Caribbean, they call it fever

are also a topical remedy

grass because it’s brewed

for any type of skin ailment,

into tea to reduce fevers. But

including measles and

that tea has other medicinal

rashes from poison plants.

From left to right: fever grass, also known as lemongrass; gumbo limbo bark; snake plant; periwinkle flower; siempre viva, also known as kalanchoe; calabash; mimosa

petals treats eye irritation and infections; a poultice stops bleeding and relaxes sore muscles; and a tea helps sore throats and coughs. Plus, it’s pretty enough to keep around all the time.

Soursop Soursop is more than just bush medicine in

properties, too; it eases

Taken as a tea, gumbo limbo

the Caribbean; it’s also a

stomachaches and digestion

eases cold and flu symptoms

delicious native fruit often

problems, relieves cramps

and relieves urinary tract

called a custard apple.

and gas, and guards against

infections and headaches.

Prickly green on the outside,

nausea and asthma attacks. Some even use the crushed leaves as a poultice to relieve arthritis and other pain.

it can look like a heart, a

Periwinkle Want to keep away evil

small thick cucumber or a pear. Cut open, the interior

spirits? Europeans of old suggested growing

Gumbo Limbo As a testament to Caribbean cleverness, this

some periwinkle to deter them. On a less ethereal plane, the flower has a long

tree goes by a much more

history as folk medicine.

appropriate name: the

It’s traditionally been used

sunburned-tourists tree. The

in the Caribbean to fight

name represents both illness

against diabetes. But also,

and remedy. Tourists come

if you juice the flowers, it

to the Caribbean and leave

calms stings and insect

with red, peeling sunburnt

bites; a tincture from the

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WESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES; INGRAM IMAGE; PHOTOALTO/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; ALFIO SCISETTI/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; ARTHIT BUARAPA/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; HEMIS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; IMAGEBROKER/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

is a creamy white with black

plant, or the humble

problem is viral, fungal

seeds. The fruit tastes like a

plant. When you touch the

or bacterial. Just chop up

mix of strawberry, coconut

leaves, they close in on

the leaves, throw them in

and pineapple, with a citrusy

themselves and droop down

a mason jar full of water

kick. For medicinal purposes,

to avoid further contact. Its

and set it in the sun or in

drinking tea made with the

medicinal purpose reflects

the fridge to steep for a

leaves can reduce fever, help

its actions — tea from the

day. Strain it and drink

cure urinary tract problems,

leaves and branches can

up. It’s also beneficial for

lower blood pressure and

help the drinker fall asleep.

gastrointestinal ulcers due

regulate the nervous system.

Mimosa is also a good pain

to its anti-inflammatory and

reliever, and mashed leaves

soothing properties.

A poultice made from the crushed leaves relieves skin issues and reduces swelling. As a bonus, soursop is a powerhouse against bugs and insects. It kills lice and bedbugs and helps to drive away caterpillars, armyworms and leafhoppers in the garden.

Mimosa No, not that mimosa. This

When you touch the leaves, they close in on themselves and droop down to avoid further contact.

can be put on toothaches to help calm the hurt.

Calabash Typically, people don’t eat

Siempre Viva This plant grows wild

the large fruit that grows on the calabash tree. But in

all over the Caribbean,

the Caribbean, it’s roasted

and is commonly known

and consumed to prevent

as a kalanchoe or “leaf

cramps or induce childbirth.

of life.” The leaves can

It can also be used as a

be eaten on their own as

laxative, and the flesh from

medicine — and, indeed,

the fruit heals the skin and

some people chow down

helps bruises disappear

on them sprinkled with

quickly. Almost every part

Champagne and orange

salt — but they can also be

of the tree can be used in

juice, and everything to do

made into a sun tea, which

folk medicine. The pulp of

one has nothing to do with

with a pretty purple flower

is most common. Siempre

the fruit works as cough

and leaves that shy away if

viva works well to relieve

medicine and treats asthma.

you try to touch them. It’s

respiratory ailments of

The bark cures earaches

also called the sensitive

every type, no matter if the

and cools a fever. Tea from

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the leaves can lower blood

the bitters and it’ll get rid

pressure, treat a cold and

of them right away. Its

digestive problems, ease

versatility really makes the

headaches and help alleviate

taste worth it.

dysentery symptoms.

Jackass Bitters You may prefer the less

Snake Plant True to its name, the snake plant’s leaves look like

crass name, gavilana, but

snakeskin and are a remedy

the common moniker tells a

for the serpent’s bite. But

story about the flowers and

the plant itself isn’t used as

leaves; it’s said that a tea

the medicine; you would

made from the plant is so

boil the leaves and then use

bitter that you have be a …

the water, which extracts

donkey to drink it. But it’s

all the beneficial properties

worth it to muscle through

from the plant. The water is

the taste. When made into

also said to help rashes and

tea or wine, jackass bitters

other skin wounds. Cheekily,

is a powerful anti-parasitic.

snake plant is also called

It tackles everything from

mother-in-law’s tongue — it

ringworm and malaria to

grows rapidly, is long with

yeast and fungal infections.

sharp edges and, as local

It’s also anti-viral, helping

gardeners will tell you, you

speed cold and flu recovery.

can’t get rid of it once it’s

Topically, it disinfects

started. Beware with this

wounds. And if you ever

one, though. It’s a common

have the unfortunate

houseplant that’s easy to

opportunity to catch lice,

grow indoors, but can be

just wash your hair with

poisonous to pets. n

Hibiscus tea

Experiencing Bush Medicine In Nassau, a Martha Stewart MSC Cruises Excursion guides guests through botanical gardens, historic hotels and local hotspots to showcase a truly unique experience devoted to the nearly 100 plants found around Nassau that are still used for medical treatment. It starts with a walk around the 11-acre Retreat Gardens, where an expert shines a spotlight on such helpful indigenous plants as aloe vera, guinep, pigeon plum and lignum vitae. From there, the luxurious Graycliff Hotel plays

Consult your physician before using these or any other alternative medicines to treat or prevent illness.

host to a traditional afternoon tea, with herbal bush teas, delicate pastries and finger foods on the menu. Then, the excursion continues to a

formula of what they call “100 percent pure Bahamian non-GMO ingredients and expert native know-how.” It’s all uniquely Nassau, and all exclusively from the interested mind and discerning taste buds of Martha Stewart herself. “My personal favorite is iced hibiscus tea,” she says, “which brews a beautifully deep cranberry color. It’s tart, but not too tart, which I love. I never add sugar or honey to my tea as I prefer Soursop 60

for the flavors to stand on their own.”

KYSELOVA INNA/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; WESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES

local tea stop named Tasty Teas that showcases their finest varietals, boasting the secret

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GRAND CAYMAN

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A world of glamour and sophistication awaits you just minutes away from the port. Rivaled only by world centers such as London and Paris, George Town shopping district offers luxury shopping in a tax and duty free paradise. George Town is able to hold such a reputation due, in large part, to the highly reputable Kirk Freeport network of stores. With over 40 years as Cayman’s premier retailer of duty free jewelry, watches, fragrances, leather, crystal, china and accessories, Kirk Freeport’s reputation precedes them.

11/21/19 12:29 PM

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TA N Z A N I T E D R E A M S C O

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Caribbean Night Lights BY JAMIE CARTER

Thank your lucky stars youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here, where the show in the sky is second to none.

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here are few more peaceful experiences than stargazing to the sound of the ocean amid

clear skies common in Caribbean. Being at sea means being far from land-

based light pollution. While those in cities can only see the moon, planets and the very brightest of stars, the Caribbean waters are among the darkest places on the planet from where it’s possible to see thousands of distant suns, bright star clusters, constellations and even dramatic shooting stars. So get out on deck — perhaps to the area in front of the bridge, which is usually the darkest — or

ADAM GRUMBO/GETTY IMAGES

out onto your balcony, and give yourself 20 minutes for your night vision to kick in. With a little patience, the galaxy will reveal to you its stunning winter wonders.

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With a little patience, the galaxy will reveal to you its stunning winter wonders.

The Evening Star This winter sees the second planet from the Sun, Venus, dominate the evening sky as the brightest object other than the moon. As it orbits the sun much more quickly than Earth (buzzing around in just 225 days), we sometimes see it for a few hours pre-dawn and at other times post-sunset. Shining this season in the western sky as a bright “Evening Star,” Venus will shine intensely and alone, with Jupiter and Mars visible in the east just before dawn.

Count the Seven Sisters One of the jewels of the winter sky is right above your head. Get out on deck and look directly up and you’ll notice something bright and fuzzy. That’s the Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, a cluster of stars around 440 light years from us. At barely 100 million years old, these are newborns. Look at them carefully and you should be able to make out about five, six or even seven separate stars with the naked eye. The human eye’s peripheral vision is more sensitive to light, so try looking just to the side of it rather than straight at it, and you’ll best appreciate its incredible brightness. 66

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

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Guide to the Stars Ocean Cay may be one of the most beautiful islands on Earth, but come nightfall, no one can be faulted for paying more attention to the galaxy above. On the MSC Cruises Excursion entitled “Beachside Stargazing,” experts are on hand to help guide amateur astronomers around the sky with state-of-the-art computerized tracking telescopes. Discover star clusters, planets and nebula like you’ve never seen from your backyard, all from a paradise unlike any other on this orb.

JAVIER MUÑOZ/EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES; ALEX'S PICTURES-OBJECTS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Witness a Full Moon Rising

There are two golden rules to full

January 3-4 will be particularly good

There are few more magical sites

moon-gazing: be on deck at dusk,

nights with the Quadrantids meteor

in nature than watching a full moon

and look east. The day before and

shower, though it’s possible to see

appear on the horizon at dusk in

after are also worth being on deck

shooting stars on any night. Get out on

wonderfully muted orange and

for, but know that a bright moon

deck from 10 p.m. to see shooting stars,

yellow colors. When you’re at sea,

bleaches the stars from the night

but know that the show will probably

the backdrop makes it even more

sky, so these nights are good only for

be at its best between midnight

impressive. On January 10, 2020, a

moon-gazing and planet-spotting.

and 2 a.m. The next meteor shower

Wolf Moon will rise in the east at dusk, and come February 9, skygazers can see a Super Snow Moon,

after the Quadrantids is the Lyrids,

Catch a Falling Star

which peak on April 21-22, 2020.

Is there anything more exciting

Hunt the Hunter

so called because our satellite is at

than seeing a shooting star streak

its closest to Earth in its monthly

across the night sky? They may look

The three belt stars that form the

orbit just as its enters 100 percent

potentially dangerous, but shooting

center of the constellation of Orion the

illumination. Consequently, it can

stars are nothing more than dust and

Hunter are perhaps the most famous

look larger than usual as it appears

debris left by the tail of a comet as

of all. During the Caribbean winter

above the eastern horizon. Back to a

it passed through the solar system.

these three stars — Alnitak, Alnilam

smaller size, March 9 sees a Worm

When they collide with the Earth’s

and Mintaka (from left to right) — are

Moon rise to welcome spring.

atmosphere, they briefly energize.

high in the southern sky. However, it’s MSC CRUISES

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what’s below them that will impress

the brightest star in the night sky, and

you most: the Orion Nebula. The

the fifth closest to us at just 8.7 light

glowing jewel in Orion’s Sword that

years. It’s called the Dog Star because

appears to hang down from Orion’s

it forms the eye of the constellation

Belt, this nebula is where stars are

Canis Major, the Great Dog, the rest

now being born. As with the Pleiades,

of which may be visible below it. To

its stunning brightness is most easily

the left of Sirius is the bright star

seen if you look just to the side of it.

Procyon in Canis Minor, the Little Dog; look between these two stars and

Discover the Dog Star Once you’ve found Orion’s Belt, you

you’ll see the rich star fields of our Milky Way galaxy. In the few hours

can’t but notice that it appears to point

before midnight, Sirius will be joined

to a brilliantly bright star just below

by Canopus just below it, the second

it and to the southeast. That’s Sirius,

brightest star in the night sky. n

DEYAN GEORGIEV/500PX/GETTY IMAGES

There are two golden rules to full moon-gazing: be on deck at dusk, and look east.

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Exclusively at

Caribbean • Central America • Mexico

™

and

Discover Forevermark Engagement Rings

™

are Trade Marks used under license from De Beers Group.

FOREVER IS JUST BEGINNING

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Between the craft brewing and craft distilling, there has never been a better time for those who live by this mantra:

Drink Locally All around the world, a revolution of craft brewing and craft distilling is spreading, and the Caribbean has not been immune. With Red Stripe and Carib, no one can say the islands have been without beer, but now a new wave of craft brewers are also serving, with distribution that ends at the water’s edge, if not the barroom door. Distillers, too, are making new rums in a region previously dominated by an old guard of esteemed distilleries. You’ve come all the way to the Caribbean — at your next port of call, sample the wares of these fine new makers.

HOXTON/PAUL BRADBURY/GETTY IMAGES

BY KEVIN REVOLINSKI

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CABO ROJO, PUERTO RICO

Boquerón Brewing Co. The island’s first nanobrewery, Boquerón, was born in Cabo Rojo in 2011. While the brewery is not

PHILIPSBURG, ST. MAARTEN

Topper’s Rhum, Cole Bay This isn’t just a great mixer for cocktails; this is also a sipping rum, straight or over ice, and it comes with a heartfelt story. Topper and Melanie Daboul own two restaurants on the south side of the island, and for years Melanie had been perfecting rum recipes in her kitchen, to make

open for tours, the beer itself is widely distributed on tap as well as in cans. Lovers of India pale ale will enjoy their Crash Boat IPA, but non-hopheads may prefer La Perla Pil Blonde Ale or the dark 3 Palmas Milk Stout. They aren’t kidding about the “nano” part — these small batches come and go quickly along with a wide variety of seasonal brews.

the perfect varieties suitable to be served to customers after dinner. The demand for more was immediate and so they formed a partnership with friends Mike and Thelma King to build a distillery and take this rum to the world. A portion of profits would go to support organizations for disadvantaged kids and battered women. Sadly, the Kings were killed in a robbery attempt, but supportive family members stepped in to bring their dream to fruition. In 2012 the distillery opened and Topper’s Rhum became the first export product of St. Maarten. Today, the rum has earned numerous medals and awards, and it can be found throughout the United States with Topper’s and Mike’s signatures on top. Go tour the distillery and buy some rum, knowing your purchase supports a foundation that provides help to others in need. 72

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GEORGE TOWN, GRAND CAYMAN

Seven Fathoms Distillery Seven Fathoms Rum has received the Double Gold from the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America and Wine Enthusiast Magazine rates it at 90 points. Many are likely familiar with cellars, caves and warehouses for aging distillates, but here you have the first rum that was aged on the ocean floor. Their “undersea rum maturation site” eventually was discovered by a diver who brought a cask up to the surface and then to a local bar for some sampling. A new and more secure site as deep and good as the name was found, and in 2008 the first batch was released — officially, this time — to the public. Within four years they were exporting to the UK and United States, and by 2014, they had expanded to a 5,000-square-foot production distillery with a tasting room. Stop in for a tour to learn the process and see their 1,200-gallon copper still and 30-foot-tall vodka tower. Then finish with samples of the tipple. Besides the namesake rum, they produce Coconut Rum, Dark Rum, Spiced Rum, Overproof Rum, Gun Bay Vodka as well as seasonal small-batch

ISLA VERDE, PUERTO RICO

Ocean Lab Brewing Co. Get your brews on the beach at Ocean Lab located inside the Vivo Beach Club in Isla Verde, a tourist area in Carolina, Puerto Rico. The establishment features a full brewpub menu to back up the brews (and a full bar for anyone in your party who is not into beer). Stop in for a tour and a sample flight of what’s on tap. Along with some hoppy IPAs and beers from the malty side — such as Sunset Amber — they make some fruit-infused beers as well (Blood Orange Blonde, aka B.O.B., for example). Bottles are for sale to go as well.

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: TOPPER'S RHUM; BOQUERÓN BREWING CO.; CAYMAN SPIRITS COMPANY; OCEAN LAB BREWING CO.

creations only available at the distillery.

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VALLADOLID, MEXICO (between Cozumel and Chichén Itzá)

Mayapan Traditional Agave Distillery If you ferment and distill the juices from the hearts of a desert succulent called agave, you get tequila — if you are producing it in the state of Jalisco, that is. Produce anywhere outside the designated areas and it can’t be called “tequila.” Well, a tequila by any other name is still good in a margarita. This little family distillery produces their version of the agave liquor and ages it in wooden barrels. Stop here for a short tour and explanation followed by some sampling and shopping.

NASSAU, BAHAMAS

Pirate Republic Brewing Co. Modest beginnings are common with craft brewers and Pirate Republic is no different, with the brewery founders initially home-brewing five-gallon batches in their kitchens. They pursued the passion and turned it into the first craft production brewery in the Bahamas. With craft beer come crafty puns: Gold & Haze of Piracy and Blackbeer’d Stout are staples, as are Island Pirate Ale (IPA, get it?) and Captain fritters, of course — as well as public tours.

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, ST. THOMAS

Rock City Brewing In Charlotte Amalie, just steps from the cruise ships, this four-barrel craft brewery was founded by a couple of brothers from Indiana, a Caribbean local, and a native Iranian-turned-American. Dumpster Cock VIPA, a West Coast-style IPA, is a nod to the wandering territorial roosters on the island. (If you haven’t seen them, you’ll hear them.) Hull Bay Beach Lager is a light brew that goes well with a slice of lime. Humpback Hefeweizen, a German-style wheat beer, is also easy drinking and named for the annual visitors that arrive in the waters around the island in February and March. 74

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EYEEM/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO; PIRATE REPUBLIC BREWING CO.; ROCK CITY BREWING COMPANY

Kidd’s Kolsch. They’ve got a good menu here — with conch

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Mastering the Margarita There’s no better place to learn how to make the

is made from agave and the

perfect margarita than its

folklore surrounding the

source — Mexico. On this

national drink. Discover the

select Martha Stewart MSC

origins of chocolate at Mayan

Cruises Excursion, guests are

Cacao Company where you’ll

invited to try fine tequilas

get to work in the private

and learn how to make

kitchen to make chocolate

three distinct margaritas

bars before moving on to

after an authentic tour

three margarita cocktails: a

through the Cozumel’s local

fruity margarita, a traditional

markets and Mayan ruins. The tour begins at Mercado Municipal, Cozumel’s bustling farmers

ST. THOMAS

Frenchtown Brewing If you can find Hop Alley in Charlotte Amalie’s Frenchtown, you’ll find this three-barrel nanobrewery that opened back in 2015. The beer is

lemon margarita and a chocolate margarita. It’s an experience only Cozumel could offer, guided

market, where you’ll have a

by the discerning tastes

chance to sample tacos from

of Martha Stewart.

the market stalls and pick

CHARLOTTE AMALIE,

while learning how tequila

“You’re in for a real treat

two fruits for your cocktail

on this margarita-making

later that day. Then journey

experience in Cozumel,” says

on to El Cedral; Cozumel’s

Martha of this tour. “My

former capital is now a

favorite margarita is served

sleepy Mayan village home

on the rocks. Always use the

to the oldest Mayan ruins

best tequila you can find.

on the island. At La Casita,

You’ll get excellent results

the oldest house in Cozumel,

using a handheld citrus

settle in the courtyard for

press to extract every last

a tasting of three tequilas

drop of juice from the limes.”

on tap in several places here and FRENCHTOWN BREWING COMPANY; NATALIE GRAINGER/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

on St. John, but a tour with some tastings is hard to beat. Be aware they are open only a few days per week, so plan ahead. Founder and brewer Kevin Brown came to the University of the Virgin Islands for work in chemistry and marine research. A huge fan of Belgian beer, he started filling the demand for good beer on the island, at first for friends then later, with the proper encouragement, for the general public. Check out his Hop Alley IPA or Frenchie Farmhouse Saison. n Alcoholic purchases made on land will be checked by customs when the guests return to the ship. The purchases will be returned to guests at the conclusion of the cruise.

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Port Reports

GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES

Learn more about the history, sights, shopping opportunities and unique adventures you will encounter as your MSC cruise ship transports you to an array of one-of-a-kind destinations. Be sure to visit Guest Services on Deck 5 to see how you can make the most of your visit.

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GARY JAMES/MSC CRUISES

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Basseterre Caribbean Secret

Fortress, nine miles west of

“Mount Misery.” A round trip

couple of places to escape

the capital and main port,

up this dormant volcano

the crushing tourist

Basseterre. Dating from

takes about four hours.

crowds, the islands of

1690, the fort is a complex

St. Kitts and Nevis fit the

of bastions, barracks and

bill. Columbus discovered

other structures built on

these obscure islands on his

the top and upper slopes

second voyage in 1493, but it

of a steep, 800-foot hill.

seems that the masses have

Three miles from

nature hikes, cycling and windsurfing. If you prefer less-

St. Kitts has several historic forts. The most popular is Brimstone Hill Fortress.

yet to discover them, which

Basseterre you’ll find the

is why they remain one of

best swimming at Conaree

Nevis, birthplace of

strenuous sightseeing, visit

the Caribbean’s best-kept

Beach. For a deeper water

Alexander Hamilton, first

the Alexander Hamilton

secrets. Nevis is the quieter

experience, Nags Head,

Secretary of the Treasury of

Museum and the Nevis

of the sister islands, but

at the southern tip of

the United States, boasts a

Botanical Gardens, or

tranquil beaches, uncrowded

St. Kitts, offers excellent

wide variety of attractions.

just snooze in a hammock

shops, restaurants and

diving amid tropical fish,

For example, you can ride

at Oualie Beach.

historic sites await you

eagle rays and lobsters.

a horse along Pinney’s

at both destinations. St. Kitts has several

Visitors who really want

Beach. On clear days,

Taste of Basseterre St. Kitts is known for its

a workout can attempt

you can see Montserrat,

historic forts. The most

to scale Mount Liamuiga

Redonda and even Antigua.

hearty meat dishes, like rich

popular is Brimstone Hill

(3,792 feet), also known as

Other activities include

goat stew and roast pig. n

ST. KITTS TOURISM AUTHORITY

f you’re looking for a

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Endless Beauty

NATALIA KUZMINA / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

ST. KITTS TOURISM AUTHORITY

Belize City f you enjoy being able to choose between exploring ancient ruins, trekking in a

a mysterious winding river.

18-square-mile reserve

ago. Watch archaeologists

St. John’s Cathedral, in

created to protect 1,500

excavate priceless pottery

Belize City, is the oldest

black howler monkeys,

shards and skeletons,

jungle, climbing mountains

Anglican cathedral in

and Cockscomb Basin

or climb to the top of a

or scuba diving among

Central America, built

Wildlife Sanctuary, a

centuries-old stone pyramid

incredible coral reefs, you’ll

in 1812. Visit the well-

160-square-mile tropical

for a bird’s-eye view of

love the exploratory nature

preserved Government

forest established to protect

the jungle. Either way,

of Belize. This small Central

House museum, dating back

endangered jaguars. Belize’s

experiencing the Mayan

American country boasts

to 1814, or the Belize Zoo,

underwater attractions

ruins in Belize is a once-in-

a number of attractions,

which is home to more than

are equally impressive,

a-lifetime adventure.

including centuries-old

150 birds, mammals and

featuring canyons brimming

Mayan cities, 240 varieties

reptiles. Be sure to check

with marine life, including

of wild orchids, 500 species

out the National Handicraft

70 types of hard coral and

of birds and some of the

Center on North Front

more than 400 species of

Street, where vendors sell

colorful fish.

world’s best dive sites. Belize is known for its

wood and slate carvings,

The Belize countryside

Taste of Belize City For a taste of Belizean culture, try a helping of traditional rice and beans. This national dish is cooked

adventurous spirit, and

black coral jewelry, pottery,

abounds with archaeological

a very specific way, the

many travelers take

paintings and baskets.

sites such as Altun Ha and

beans and rice boiled in

Xunantunich, left over

coconut milk, and is often

to fly through the treetops

appreciate the Community

from when the Maya lived

served with fish stew or

on a zip line or cave tube on

Baboon Sanctuary, in an

there thousands of years

mashed plantains. n

advantage of the opportunity

Nature lovers also will

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Bridgetown British Heritage

he first English ship

Bridgetown, is a good place

synagogues in the Caribbean,

reached Barbados in

to explore. National Heroes

dating back to the 1600s.

1625, and Europeans

Square (formerly known as

Barbados is also a

have been fascinated with

Trafalgar Square), which

wellspring of natural

the tropical isle’s allure ever

dates back to 1813, is a

wonders. Harrison’s Cave,

since. Over the years, many cultures have colored this easternmost Caribbean island, whose warm, friendly

The cuisine in Barbados has a heavy focus on seafood...

North of Bridgetown is the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, where you may spot green monkeys, red-footed turtles, peacocks and pelicans as you stroll along the wooded paths.

Taste of Bridgetown The cuisine in Barbados

celebration of the island’s

a breathtaking limestone

has a heavy focus on seafood,

heroes and is home to

cavern, will be on the top

due to the wonderful fresh

British ambiance still makes

a bronze statue of Lord

of every spelunker’s to-see

fish that can be caught just

visitors feel like royalty.

Admiral Horatio Nelson.

list. Its many subterranean

off the coast. Flying fish,

Caribbean cricket, anyone?

Also of note in Bridgetown

streams, springs, stalagmites

the most popular option,

For an understanding of

are the Barbados Museum,

and stalactites have made it

is traditionally served

West Indian culture and

originally a military prison,

one of the island’s leading

with a cornmeal and okra

colonial history, the capital,

and one of the oldest Jewish

tourist attractions.

dish called cou-cou. n

COMPLIMENTS – VISITBARBADOS.ORG

residents are known as Bajans, but a decidedly

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on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Spain fortified Cartagena by

surrounding it with fortress walls that are up to 20 feet thick. Today

Cartagena is a draw for tourists who may enjoy joining locals in drinking rum, dancing and basking in the tropical sun. When you visit Plaza de Bolívar in the Old City, you can relax under majestic trees. Facing the plaza is the Palace of the Inquisition, a museum that displays instruments of torture used during Spain’s Inquisition. It makes for a fascinating yet disturbing visit. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a complex of batteries, tunnels and hiding places that were built from stone to ensure that no enemy could survive an assault on Cartagena. The tunnels were constructed so that any sound would echo loudly enough to alert guards. Now the fort is open to visitors who wish to walk through a piece of history. However, Cartagena also has its fair share of luxury. Most notable is Bocagrande, several minutes from town by taxi, which boasts a beach, resort hotels, restaurants and nightclubs. DBIMAGES/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

COMPLIMENTS – VISITBARBADOS.ORG

o protect this key trading center

Cartagena

Colonial Splendor

Taste of Cartagena For dessert, many Colombians enjoy arroz con coco, a creamy rice pudding sweetened with lemon zest and cinnamon. n MSC CRUISES

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Charlotte Amalie

ith its green hills and white-sand beaches, St.

with St. John and St. Croix. In 1917 the United States bought the Virgin Islands

are some of the best in the

with stores, many in old

world because of their calm,

Danish warehouses that

clear waters, powdery white

once held molasses, rum,

Thomas offers visitors a

for $25 million to employ

sand and coral reefs that

lumber, ceramics and

picture-postcard view as

it as an outpost guarding

can be seen by snorkelers

gold. The best buys on the

well as great shopping and

the Panama Canal. Virgin

40 feet from the shore.

world-class restaurants.

Islanders have all of the

Shopping also is one

rights and privileges of

of the biggest attractions

United States citizens.

in St. Thomas. Its capital,

Museum is in the national

Charlotte Amalie, abounds

historic landmark

Once a colony of Denmark, St. Thomas is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, along 84

The beaches in St. Thomas

island are in jewelry, china, electronics and linens. The Virgin Islands

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

Danish Dream

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building that used to be Fort Christian. It is the oldest building still in use on the island. A skyride to Paradise Point affords a bird’s-eye

begin on Government Hill. The view from the top of the steps will make you think you have ascended the stairway to heaven.

view of St. Thomas and

Taste of

Charlotte Amalie, with

Charlotte Amalie

St. Croix in the distance.

The Virgin Islands are

But if you prefer to see the

known for their tropical

island on foot, you can

drinks, both of the cocktail

walk up the numerous

and health food variety. Rum

hillside stairways that

is always a popular choice, but

the Danes built. The

if you want something more

most famous stairs are

nutritious, try banana punch

the 99 Steps, which

or spiced seaweed milk. n

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

Beautiful Ladies’ Day-to-Night Maxi-Dresses

11/22/19 12:15 PM

Adventures Galore

ayan culture takes

Yucatán. The major

It is the only ruin in the

center stage at

structure at Kohunlich, an

area that guests can climb

Costa Maya, a

important ceremonial center,

straight to the top.

jewel of Mexico’s Caribbean

is Los Mascarones (Temple

coast. This resplendent

of the Masks), so called

stretch of sparkling sand

because of the five surviving

along the Yucatán Peninsula

stucco masks that line the

Also worth a visit is Chacchoben, the Mayan “City of Red Corn,” where you are rewarded with

lures visitors in search of new horizons to explore. But Costa Maya still retains its pristine appeal. Here you can stroll along a lonely beach, meditate under a

Brand new to Costa Maya is the larger-than-life Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom water park.

palm tree and imagine what

coaster, Mayan jungle and more! Once you see it from the ship, you won’t be able to resist. It’s great fun to get around in a dune buggy, ATV, Jeep® or kayak. Stop by the nearby fishing village of Mahahual, and don’t forget to check out the area’s fabulous snorkeling opportunities.

Taste of Costa Maya Since Costa Maya is the

temple’s staircase. The once-

spectacular views of the

the enigmatic Maya Indians

powerful Dzibanché features

magnificent pyramid and its

famous Mayan ruins, it is

who have called this area

stone plazas bordered by

surrounding jungle.

also the perfect place to

life must have been like for QUINTANA ROO TOURISM BOARD

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

Costa Maya

home for centuries.

pyramids, including the

Brand new to Costa

original site of so many

taste some authentic Mayan

Temple of the Owl and

Maya is the larger-than-life

cuisine. Feast on tamales,

Kohunlich and Dzibanché

Temple of the Cormorants,

Mayá, Lost Mayan Kingdom

beans and chicken stew,

are considered to be among

and is often populated by

water park, packed with

but mind the generous use

the best in the southern

troops of howler monkeys.

waterslides, zip lines, a zip

of hot habanero chiles. n

The Mayan ruins at

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Cozumel

Something for Everyone

onsidered sacred by

emerge as a premier diving

explorers. Chankanaab

the Maya Indians

and snorkeling destination

also features a saltwater

who have lived

where underwater visibility

lagoon, archaeological

here for over 2,000 years,

Cozumel is an eclectic

extends as much as 250 feet.

of Mayan dwellings. Other fun-in-the-sun activities in Cozumel

park, botanical garden,

include bird-watching,

At Palancar Reef

wildlife sanctuary and

windsurfing, deep-sea

destination that appeals to

are giant elephant-ear

a facility where you can

fishing, bonefishing,

all sorts of tourists. From

sponges, red coral, deep

swim with dolphins.

horseback riding,

nature, history and culture

caves and canyons. At

Also among the park’s

kayaking and biking.

shopping, Cozumel has it all. In the 1960s, renowned oceanographer Jacques Cousteau filmed a show in

Fun-in-the-sun activities in Cozumel include bird-watching, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, bonefishing, horseback riding, kayaking and biking.

Cozumel, introducing the area’s pristine underwater

Chankanaab Nature

attractions are 35 varieties

The island’s oldest

habitat to the world.

Park, where land and sea

of plant life; 60 species of

structure, El Cedral, has

Cousteau’s endorsement

come together, a sunken

marine life, including sea

traces of original Mayan

was all Cozumel needed to

ship attracts underwater

turtles; and reproductions

wall paintings. It’s just east

QUINTANA ROO TOURISM BOARD (2)

to sports, cuisine and

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of Playa San Francisco. Visitors can take the ferry to Playa del Carmen. From there itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to reach more extensive ruins, such as the ancient city of Tulum.

Taste of Cozumel As an alternative to a boring salad, try an ensalada de nopales, also known as cactus salad. This native Yucatecan dish consists of tenderized, thorn-free cactus, sliced on a bed of chiles, onions and tomatoes. n

Caption goes here.

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George Town

Diver’s Delight

almost always calm and is warm enough year-round to dive without a wet suit. Stingray City is one of the most popular diving and snorkeling sites on the island. The stingrays, which may be as wide as six feet, look like stealth bombers hugging the sandy bottom. They are so accustomed to divers feeding them that they will come right up and eat out of your hand. Grand Cayman also is noted for its breathtaking wall dives. It is surrounded by four steep walls that are covered with healthy coral, where you can view schools of fish including tarpon, yellow frogfish and orange sea horses. Wall diving in crystal-clear water gives you the feeling of floating in a balloon above an endless wall of color that disappears into an inky black abyss. In the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, a 65-acre showcase with orchids, mahogany, white birch and ironwood trees, you can also see the rare Grand Cayman

olumbus sighted

islands Cayman Brac and

would come to be known as

the island in 1503

Little Cayman counted

the Cayman Islands.

when he was blown

buccaneers, beachcombers

One of Grand Cayman’s

Taste of George Town The island’s specialty

off course on his way to

and shipwrecked sailors

most famous attractions is

is freshly caught fish,

Hispaniola. A century later,

among the first settlers of the

Seven Mile Beach. The water

including snapper, mahi-

Grand Cayman and sister

British Crown Colony that

around Grand Cayman is

mahi, tuna and wahoo. n

JEFF HUNTER/GETTY IMAGES

blue iguana and parrot.

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GRAND CAYMAN

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Isla de Roatán Warm and Wild

as “monkey lalas” or “jesus

by man, Honduras is

lizards,” remarkable little

as ripe for adventure

dragons that can run

as it is pristine, with reefs,

upright across the water.

ruins and rainforests

Ornithologists are also in

all offering a glimpse

is Roatán, the largest of eight islands that make up the Bay Islands. Roatán

drive vehicle. Divers and snorkelers also will find much to enjoy in the From the top of “El Mirador,”

The main attraction Central American nation

popular activity, and a great way to explore is by 4-wheel-

Caribbean waters off Roatán.

of nature at its finest. for cruisers in this

Beach-hopping is a

Divers and snorkelers also will find much to enjoy in the Caribbean waters off Roatán.

guests can take in the colorful coastline of Coxen Hole, the island’s largest city.

Taste of Isla de Roatán

is a hilly island that offers

Try a platter of green

visitors brilliant blue waters, palm-fringed

for a treat. The island is

plantain chips. Sweeter and

beaches and nature trails.

home to 120 species of birds,

thicker than potato chips,

including the must-see red-

these banana-like treats

enthusiasts can watch

lored parrot, which loves

are fried and salted into the

basilisk lizards, also known

to eat cashews off the tree.

perfect afternoon snack. n

All over Roatán, wildlife

IMAGE SOURCE/GETTY IMAGES

eemingly untouched

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Key West

Conch Republic

are popular activities.

A good way to start

point of the United

exploring Key West is

while living there. The

States, this colorful

with a trolley train tour. A

house is also famous

the best place to begin a

Floridian island prides itself

narrated tour of Old Town is

for its menagerie of six-

lively evening on the town

on having a sense of fun and

peppered with legend, lore

toed polydactyl cats.

is at Mallory Square at

a truly independent spirit. In

and anecdotes as you take in

the early 1980s, Key West

all the sights. If you desire a

Other notable sites include

After a day of sightseeing,

sunset, when the town’s

the Wreckers Museum; the

wacky characters show

protested federal policy by

more active experience, an

Harry S. Truman Little

off their various talents,

seceding from the Union

intimate biking tour shows

White House Museum,

crafts and magic tricks.

and declaring itself the

the island’s quirky heart.

sovereign “Conch Republic.”

Ernest Hemingway’s

which was the winter White House during the Truman

Taste of Key West

home is a central attraction.

administration; and the

in-cheek take on life that

The two-story, Spanish-

Key West Aquarium, where

has attracted a multitude

colonial house is now a

you can pet baby sharks

The bohemian restaurant

of artists, musicians and

museum that offers guided

and view a wide range of

Blue Heaven offers a

It’s that quirky, tongue-

Key West is particularly famous for its Key lime pie.

writers to Key West —

tours every day. “Papa”

tropical fish and shellfish.

great slice that’s creamy,

along with Key lime pie

Hemingway bought the

Diving, snorkeling and

lightly tart and piled

and killer sunsets.

home in 1931 and wrote

other water sports also

high with meringue. n

STEVE BEAUDET FOR VISIT FLORIDA

For Whom the Bell Tolls

t the southernmost

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Miami

Tropic Cool

The Art Deco architecture

to Latin America and

Wolfsonian-FIU museum,

of South Beach attracts

which contains a collection

the Caribbean,” Miami

celebrities and tourists

of more than 120,000 works

sizzles to a tropical beat. The

alike. At Lincoln Road

of art, rare books, posters,

jewel of Florida’s southeastern

Mall, a popular pedestrian

World War II memorabilia

coast, Miami is one of

area, you can choose from

and other cultural mementos.

America’s most colorful and

a wide variety of shops

cosmopolitan cities.

and restaurants, ranging

Two of the area’s

from moderately priced

Taste of Miami Joe’s Stone Crab

most interesting ethnic

to upscale. Speaking of

Restaurant has been a Miami

neighborhoods are Little

upscale, Bal Harbour Shops

favorite since 1915. Stop by

Havana and Little Haiti. Little

boast shopping and dining

their location in South Beach

Havana has a number of authentic Cuban restaurants and hosts Calle Ocho, one of the world’s largest block parties, every March. 98

Trendy South Beach attracts celebrities and tourists alike.

that has been favorably

for a treat of fresh, tender

compared to Fifth Avenue,

crab claws in signature

Rodeo Drive and the

mustard mayonnaise. Joe’s

Châmps-Elysées.

also serves some of the best

Also of interest is the

Key lime pie in Florida. n

GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (GMCVB)

nown as the “Gateway

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Breezy Paradise

rystal blue waters,

the uncommonly clear

powdery sand,

and sparkling waters and

friendly locals —

near-white sand. Situated

Montego Bay has all the

in the middle of Montego

fixings of the perfect

Bay, “Hip Strip” Gloucester

tropical vacation. As one

Avenue, offers some sun,

of Jamaica’s most popular

dining, shopping and

areas, it’s known for its

dancing all in one day.

beaches, shopping, and lively music scene. Celebrities and socialites have flocked to the worldWESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES

GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (GMCVB)

Montego Bay

Montego Bay is also a sports enthusiast’s

Montego Bay has all the fixings of the perfect tropical vacation.

favorite of divers, snorkelers, sailors and windsurfers. Another hotspot for divers is the Canyon and Chimney, a 70-foot fish-feeding station.

Taste of Montego Bay Jamaican cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, British

paradise. River rafting, golf

and Afro-centric influences.

and diving are the three

The most popular style

famous Doctor’s Cave