Pippa on the boat
The end of summer is nearing, and it is time for me to go back to New York. On one of my last days in Curaçao, on the boat with my best friend, Randolph, I realized that being home is really wonderful. Being able to relax on a beautiful Caribbean island with its white beaches and warm weather, that happens to be my home, is such a treat!
On this particular day, we were floating along the buoys of Barbara Beach, at the mouth of Spanish Water, the sun was setting, and Pippa and Sam (Randolph’s dog) were taking a nap after their long swim. Dutch and Belgian friends came by with their own boat, moored next to us and we filled the afternoon with chats and white wine. The Belgian couple had just put an option on a house along the water. It takes a long time to get to Curaçao from Belgium (no direct flights), but they decided to buy property because they loved the relaxed atmosphere on the island, and thought the value was still good. Spanish Water, one said, is more beautiful than Lago Maggiore.
Spanish Water, a natural bay, on the southern side of the island, with homes built along its shores, is developing rapidly. The Hyatt has almost finished a new hotel on Barbara Beach, and there is less and less property available along the water. But the area remails an important area for fishermen and water sports. Most of my friends and I all grew up playing, swimming, and boating on this bay. Seeing the Hyatt being built, causes nostalgia for the unspoilt days. Hey, it’s economic development.
While driving the boat back to its harbor, seeing the red light of the setting sun behind the hills that surround the water, and observing fishermen clean their catch, I realized that this is the most beautiful place in the world, for me. It indeed tops Lago Maggiore, St Tropez and Portofino. It’s of course different, but by all means beautiful on a global standard. I’m off to New York in a few days, and will miss these leisurely afternoons.
Tags: Boating, Curacao, Spanish Water, Vacation