December unfolded as one of my most expansive travel months in recent memory, carrying me across seven countries – a number that swelled to nine when including brief returns to France and the Netherlands. From the sun-drenched beaches of St. Vincent to the serene snowbanks of Vermont, the month was a whirlwind of experiences.
The journey began with a few extra days in Curaçao. A rainy day led to a fascinating visit to the Curaçao Liquor Distillery, followed by a sun-soaked exploration of beautiful Blue Bay, a gated community that subtly echoed the charm of The Villages in Florida, but with a breathtaking beach as its centerpiece.
A long-held dream came true in Barbados: a pilgrimage to Rihanna’s childhood home. Barbados itself proved to be an island brimming with possibilities, a place where adventure awaited around every corner. Historic tours, vibrant food experiences, exhilarating water activities, and a wealth of restaurants and bars created a dynamic atmosphere.
Barbados’s beaches, particularly Dover Beach, offered idyllic afternoons. A food tour revealed the island’s culinary delights, while a descent into Harrison’s Cave unveiled a hidden world. A comprehensive island tour provided a captivating overview of Barbados’s diverse landscapes, culminating in the lively energy of the Oistins Friday Night Fish Fry – a celebration of music, community, and incredible food.
Then came an unforgettable chapter: a week aboard the Royal Clipper. Hosted by Star Clippers, this experience quickly became a highlight, a journey I found myself constantly revisiting in my thoughts. The ship itself was the star, drawing guests with its timeless elegance and a nostalgic charm. Each evening, the sight of the sails billowing against the horizon captivated all on board.
For Charlie, it was his first ever cruise, while I was experiencing my third small ship adventure, following expeditions to Antarctica and Eastern Canada. Yet, sailing on a clipper ship felt entirely different – a step back in time, evoking the spirit of Pirates of the Caribbean. The opportunity to climb the mast and relax in the net at the bow added an element of playful adventure.
Our cruise charted a course from Barbados to Grenada, then through the enchanting islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Martinique, and St. Lucia. Each island possessed its unique allure, but the secluded beauty of the Grenadines and the lush landscapes of St. Lucia left a particularly lasting impression. More details on the Royal Clipper experience are coming soon.
Dominica presented a different kind of challenge. While not without its charms – like the soothing hot springs of Ti Kwan Glo Cho and a tranquil boat ride down the Indian River – it proved to be a more demanding destination. The island’s undeveloped infrastructure and the condition of the roads tested our patience, but it offered a glimpse into a less-touristed Caribbean.
Our final Caribbean stop was Grand Case, St. Martin, a culinary haven on the French side. The town boasted a delightful array of restaurants, cocktail bars, and charming boutiques, all set against the backdrop of small, inviting beaches. It was the perfect place to unwind, savor delicious meals, and briefly explore the Dutch side with a fun catamaran ride, reaffirming our preference for the French ambiance.
The journey continued with a return to the States for Christmas, filled with three festive dinners and visits to Maine and Vermont. It was a heartwarming time spent with family, a whirlwind of connection and shared moments. Vermont, after twenty years, rekindled a love for its mountains, small towns, and peaceful atmosphere.
Back in Prague, we hosted our annual low-key New Year’s dinner, a cozy gathering with friends. The month concluded with a sense of contentment, a reflection on the diverse experiences and cherished memories created along the way.
Dominica’s rugged terrain and limited infrastructure presented a unique set of challenges. The roads, particularly in the north, were in disrepair, making driving a nerve-wracking experience. Finding food after 5:50 PM proved surprisingly difficult, highlighting the island’s nascent tourism industry.
Barbados, while beautiful, proved surprisingly expensive. A simple breakfast of waffles, a sandwich, and two cappuccinos totaled $50 USD, a stark reminder of the island’s premium pricing. And, in a bizarre twist, an allergic reaction to Elf on the Shelf cereal – due to food dyes – left me looking remarkably like an elf.
On the entertainment front, “Down Cemetery Road” on Apple TV+ offered a captivating, albeit flawed, thriller. The series began strongly, with gripping cliffhangers and stunning visuals, but ultimately suffered from plot inconsistencies and tonal shifts. Despite its imperfections, the performances of Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson made it worthwhile.
Musically, I continued my journey through Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, discovering hidden gems and revisiting familiar favorites. The Saturday Night Fever soundtrack and Billy Joel’s The Stranger stood out, both albums packed with iconic songs I’d somehow missed experiencing in their entirety.
Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN also resonated deeply, its existential themes and lyrical brilliance striking a personal chord. The album’s exploration of creativity, mortality, and the fear of losing one’s edge felt particularly relevant. A playlist of my favorite discoveries from the 500 albums is available for those who wish to explore.
In the realm of literature, Christopher Beha’s “The Index of Self-Destructive Acts” proved to be a compelling, if unsettling, read. The novel’s intricate web of characters and their inevitable downfalls created a captivating, albeit dark, narrative. In contrast, Gregory Maguire’s “Wicked” – the inspiration for the musical – left me profoundly disappointed, a stark departure from the beloved stage adaptation.
January promises a welcome respite from travel, a month dedicated to work and quiet productivity. The prolonged cold snap has brought a blanket of snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. It’s good to be home, surrounded by the simple comforts of routine and the companionship of our cats.
