Was it really Friday already? My buddy was to leave today to catch a plane to Tampa. But first, we headed into Charlotte Amalie where she picked up her new sandals. She was thrilled. Stopped by the outdoor vendors market for some last minute souvenirs. We knew we only had a couple of hours so opted to go to Sapphire Beach again. It was wonderful and we had a hard time dragging ourselves away. The I bed farewell to my friend and was sad to see her go. She was returning the rental car for us, so I was on my own. Thought I’d just go to the pool and play it by ear. Met a nice guy at the pool who had moved to St. Thomas 6 months before the 1995 hurricane. He was the second person to tell me that after that hurricane not one leaf or flower remained on the island. I could not imagine. Everything was so lush and the variety of flowers was beautiful. The remainder of my day was spent reading, packing and just lolling about.

My cab arrived promptly at 9 am and dropped me off at the Dilly Deck for breakfast. The Eggs Benedict was truly scrumptious, homemade hollandaise sauce-yum. They let me stow my gear at the restaurant while I walked around Havensight. Bought my booze and found a pretty ring. Stopped by the Beach Club for a coke and watched the cruise shippers. Then it was off to the airport and the end of my vacation. Boo hoo!
Now I understand what everyone means, I have to come back. I have to go to St. John. I have to sail to the BVI’s. I have to investigate more beaches and do a lot more snorkeling.

Some last minute observations: Upon arrival I was a little shocked to see how sort of rundown everything is. There was a lot of construction going on, but in general, things seemed kind of falling apart, signs not observable or half-wrecked. I suppose the weather has a lot to do with the general wear and tear on things.
All of the Islanders we met were very nice and friendly if not downright polite. I believe this was due to the protocol of speaking first with a “good morning” or enquiring as to their day. I have never seen so many overweight people in my life. What a struggle it must be in the heat. I was not at all impressed with the food or the prices of that food on the island. In general, it was okay, nothing I couldn’t get here at home. Granted, we didn’t go to a lot of different places, but I have a feeling I am a food snob, anyway. No bugs whatsoever! I think that was due to the extreme heat and lack of rain. The water, the beaches and the snorkeling are absolutely the best reason to go to the islands, and I look forward to my next trip there. Again, thank you all again for your insights. This forum has some very nice people and now I can count on having something in common with you..our love of these beautiful islands.