PORTS OF CALL
PHILIPSBURG, ST MAARTEN
That's both good news and bad news for this unique port of call, which, along with neighboring St. Martin, is the world's smallest island inhabited by two countries. St. Maarten is, of course, governed by the Netherlands Antilles while St. Martin is part of the French West Indies. What's particularly fun is that barring huge traffic jams, you can easily swing back and forth from the Dutch to the French sides, and enjoy the best of both.
On either side of the mountainous island, there are lovely -- rivaling the best in the Caribbean -- beaches, including the clothing-optional part of Orient Beach. Its duty-free prices for electronics and liquor (these shops are primarily found in St. Maarten's Philipsburg) may well be the best in the Caribbean. And the restaurants, cafes and designer boutiques of St. Martin's Marigot definitely possess a distinctive je ne sais quoi.
St. Maarten, like many other Caribbean islands, was spotted by Christopher Columbus in 1493. But the island's real history began with French and Dutch settlers who divided the island in 1648. They have lived side by side ever since. St. Maarten gained partial independence from the Netherlands in 1954.
SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
Get beyond that, though, because of all America's Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico offers the most exotic aura. The melange of indigenous Taino culture, combined with European and African influences in San Juan (and all of Puerto Rico, for that matter), is one major factor. Add to that its own unique influences in areas, ranging from cuisine to music and from history to art. And there's more: folks who have traveled to Cuba say that Old San Juan reminds them more of Cuba, at times, than Cuba itself! It's also very Spanish (think Seville) and even a bit Italian (reminiscent of Naples). Finally, the city evokes just a wee taste of South America (like Buenos Aires).
For those who visit San Juan as a day-stop on a Caribbean itinerary or embark or disembark there, the island's biggest appeal is the old city. Most cruise ships dock right in the heart of Old San Juan, which dates back to the 16th century. The old, walled city has been exquisitely preserved, and its sprawling forts, cobblestone streets, antique shops and art galleries make it an ideal first stop. Its mainstream attractions include the imposing El Morro fort, which dates back to 1539; the Cathedral of San Juan, where the island's first governor, Ponce de Leon, is buried; La Fortaleza, the oldest governor's mansion on U.S. soil; several colonial plazas; and the triumvirate of Calle del Cristo, Calle San Jose and Calle Fortaleza for shopping. Calle del Cristo, in particular, is chock-full of art galleries, artisan studios and distinctive boutiques.
But, if you're a "been there, done that" visitor to Old San Juan, there's much more to explore.
And there's one more thing to keep in mind: many cruises stay in port until late at night. That makes it possible to sample some of the city's vibrant restaurants and nightlife (as long as you keep an eye on the clock).
LABADEE, HAITI
nch and Creole are the official languages, but since you
are on a private beach, English will be the accepted form of
communication. US Currency is accepted at the marketplace and everything
else is charged to your shipboard account. Labadee came through unscathed
(with the exception of a few minor areas) from the 2004 hurricane season.
Labadee is on a peninsula on the north coast of Hispaniola,
otherwise known as Haiti. Hispaniola was the name Christopher
Columbus gave to the entire island shared by the Dominican Republic and
Haiti. Recent political unrest made Haiti an undesirable
destination, but Royal Caribbean has cordoned off a remote portion of this
island, and the totally safe and private compound provides guests an
opportunity to experience the magnificent beauty of this region.
The powdery sand beach is surrounded by magnificent
mountains and lush foliage and crystal clear water..
Royal Caribbean has made improvements and updated this
island paradise to include a new water park (additional entrance fee).
This island, with five different beach areas, offers more than just a
beach experience, however. A number of the optional shore excursions
allow a glimpse into the local culture and its rich history.
This is truly a tropical island. It is hot year round, with
afternoon temperatures easily rising into the 90’s.
The ship docks offshore and you will be tendered to shore.
Note: If you are on the Amiga Island snorkeling excursion,
you will be transported to the destination directly from the ship.
There is a Haitian Marketplace on the grounds, where native
crafts can be purchased. These local shops and artisan booths offer
Haitian paintings, crafts, coffee and cognac. (Remember to barter). Be
aware that all of the prices are negotiable and expect to encounter strong
sales and negotiating tactics.
A large
local artisan's market has also blossomed next to the Haitian market. Look
for bargains on wood carvings, paintings, dolls, basketry, clothing,
beads, jewelry and just about everything else you can imagine. Be prepared
to bargain by offering about half of the asking price as a beginning
point.
If lounging at one of the five beaches does not appeal to
you, you can take a kayaking tour to a nearby Haitian fishing village, or
a narrated coastal tour, snorkel at Amiga Island, enjoy parasailing or a
banana boat ride.
You can hike along one of the trails that lead you to
discover 16th century artifacts, play beach volleyball, or do
nothing but relax in a hammock.
There is
also a large jet ski marina for the rental of jet skiis by the hour, or
you can take a jet ski tour of the area.
What are my choices for dining
and drinking?
A barbeque lunch is served at three different dining
venues, which area permanent open-air buildings. Bars are conveniently
positioned throughout Labadee
and bartenders wander the beach offering sodas and specialty drinks.
Make
sure you try a “Labaduzee”. This signature frozen drink can be purchased
with or without alcohol.
Overview of the Peninsula Labadee Resides
Upon
Labadee's Main Beach - "Nellie's Beach"
Labadee's Arawak Aqua Park
The Navigator of the Seas Anchored off of
Labadee
Labadee's
Tenders and Tender Wharf
Labadee's Haitian Marketplace
Just One Stall in the Artisan's Market
The Artisan's Market
Labadee's Dragon Beach (on the Other Side
of the Peninsula)
Labadee's Beautiful "Hideaway Beach"
The Labadee Jet Ski Marina
Labadee's Dragon's Rock Cafe
Nellie's Passion Bar on Labadee by the
Tender Wharf
Strongarm Productions would like to express its concern
for Haiti's people. Below is a list of worthy organizations should you wish to make a
charitable donation:
From Your Computer
American Jewish World Service
American Red Cross International Response Fund
Americares
British Red Cross
Catholic Relief Services
The Disasters Emergency Committee, U.K.
Doctors Without Borders
Food for the Poor (Royal Caribbean)
Oxfam International
The Salvation Army
Save the Children
Unicef
Unicef U.K.
United Way International