Thursday, November 23, 2000

			St. Johns left: Street running up from the pier, notice ships bkgrnd. right: Overlooking square 2 blocks from the pier.
We didn't spend alot of time in this town. It was mostly street vendors with the usual. Compared to other ports, this was one of the least desirable except as noted below. You were constantly asked "take a nice ride to the country sir?". Aside from the street vendors there were small "Malls" that offered most conventional items.

			left: Taxi stand problem right: The Map Shop
Left image underscores the taxi issue in Antiqua. A tourist went to a driver who was not in the que, apparently he was willing to take the commission. Unfortunately, the gentleman above being talked to by the plentiful law officers was "somewhat upset" by this. All was fine, but it illustrates a problem. Upper left in this image is new construction for "upgraded Antigua". Right image is The Map Shop which I heard about at RTC (news:rec.travel.cruise). They have some serious navigation charts including BA of the Carribbean ($35.00). Plus they have stationary, etc.

			left: typical square in "upgraded" section. right: jewelry shop, "Gold Smitty".
The good news is that there is an area immediately to the right of the docks as you walk off that is VERY pleasent and quiet. Very nice architecture, clean, quiet and affording some nice shops and restauants. The Gold Smitty is Hans Smitt's custom jewelry store and it was very impressive albiet expensive. It appears that Antigua is developing the waterfront, like all other destinations we saw again after 2 years.

		Our event in Antigua I thought I'd never agree to a Jolly Roger cruise having seen the folks return on board, but I have to admit it was a blast. There was a complete demographic, 6 to 60, basically everyone was just "mildly giddy" and the crew and the presentation of the pirate motif was excellent. Unfortunately I didn't bring the digicam which was really stupid because it was so very visual. Ship is bigger than it seems in this pix, about 60'. It's also genuine wooden sailing vessel, not just a gimmick. The rope swing and gang plank (excuses to get wet) were very much fun. Highly recommended. Cost about $35-40 pp, free drinks, (vodka, rum, beer), no food.
Summary - I'm sure there is much more to this destination. Two years ago http://www.millerweb.com/galaxy/Antigua.htm - we took a catamaran cruise that was awesome. There must be much to be seen if you can get a good Driver amid the aforementioned chaos at the taxi stand.

Feedback? Greg Miller, www.millerweb.com - greg@millerweb.com