We arrived on Bequai on the 22nd of December and were instantly taken with the place (and especially the people). A completely different vibe from St.Vincent. Laid back and at the same time a really friendly and social island with a large ex-pat community. We attended a pre-Christmas party in a cargo boat which was a foam filled, madcap bash and a great introduction to the local social scene. We also bumped into some old friends in the shape our Norwegian allies from the ARC. We discussed at great length the etiquette around Soca dancing (an ongoing discussion) and partied until the wee hours before returning to Rose-Marie. The next day started with some yummy BLT’s at Dawns cafe and some sight seeing around the Island. A couple of lazy days ensued until Christmas Eve which was a great night out, meeting new friends and trying out the local pubs. We ended up playing music with the locals and Barry and I were invited to ‘caroling’ on Boxing day with our new friend Dion. Christmas day was full of adventure. After opening our Christmas presents (3 inflatable, floaty animals) we hit the water for some fun…. However Barry hadn’t anticipated the strength of the wind and speed of his Toucan. Soon we were forced to launch a rescue party to retrieve them both… Which resulted in a further rescue party to rescue the rescuers… and Barry and his Toucan due to Dinghy engine problems. Luckily some friendly (and rather amused) neighbours were on hand to assist. The rest of our day was relaxing and drama free and the evening was spent enjoying a wonderful Christmas dinner complete with Pina Coladas at Jack’s bar.

On Boxing day Barry and I arose early (no mean feat) and were picked up by our new friends Dion and co. However our ‘carolling’ was more than we bargained for and turned out to be a full 18 hours of playing, eating and drinking with our newfound friends as part of a band of ‘entertainers’ travelling from house to house and celebration to celebration experiencing some truly amazing hospitality into the wee hours. The next few days were spent ‘recovering’ and experiencing the island. Beach bonfires, sun-downers and all manner of ‘liming’ were the order of the day.

We really enjoyed Bequai, however finding a decent cup of coffee was nigh impossible. We decided to spend New Year on the Island and were treated to an amazing bonfire display and some great socialising with Des, the Norwegians, Dion, Ben, Asher, Rina, Nimrod and many others. We were sad to have to move on, but after saying some fond farewells at the floating bar we set sail for Islands new on the 4th of January. Vowing to return!