Times of the Islands Summer 2016

community return with a wave and smile. Along the way
we make stops as he spots wild plants and reveals fascinating
lore of how different plants are used to cure
aliments from chicken pox to bug bites and stomach
pains to impotency!
We climb the ridge where Sailrock is developing
homes and catch our breath with surprise. On one side
is the shallow, translucent water of Bell Sound; the other,
the clear waters, coral reefs, and stunning blues of the
deep-water Columbus Passage. It was amongst these
reefs that Jeremiah grew up fishing, and says he could
find any given coral head even at night. The East Bay
Resort has brought some much needed employment to
South Caicos, and Jeremiah is a busy man but still finds
time for the water.
Back at the resort, we head to the Admiral Cockburn
Lounge where Alvaro the barman greets us warmly and
then proceeds to shake us a world-class margarita! We
are enjoying our drinks when Alvaro takes a call on his
cell . . . and bizarrely it’s for us! Thankfully, this was
no family emergency but simply staff member Stephanie,
who was walking home and wanted us to take notice of
a particularly beautiful sunset. How’s that for customer
service?
East Bay Resort’s restaurant Blu offers a variety of
local and international dishes. We start with huge and
succulent shrimp, followed by a seafood medley and
fine steak. Accompanied by wine from an extensive list
From top: This glorious sunset is reflected in South Caico’s vast salt
ponds.
The 18th century District Commissioner’s residence would make an
ideal South Caicos museum.
we have to keep reminding ourselves that we are on an
outer island and not Provo! After-dinner entertainment
is a quiet walk on the beach, the twinkling, silent stars
above complementing an utter quietness and tranquility.
Sleep follows on a bed that feels like it’s made of clouds.
We awake to a glorious sunrise over the bay. Today
we plan to explore the town on our own but need a hearty
breakfast first. Denise greets us in the Periwinkle café
with a friendly smile and we are soon tucking into hot
coffee and poached eggs. Ignoring the overwhelming
desire to lounge by the infinity pool, we collect the complimentary
bicycles.
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