I am just back from a Caribbean holiday. My
limbs are still orange and brown. My luggage still has sand. There is coconut
water in my blood and my flesh has turned fishy, I had so much! Jealous? Go
ahead, turn green. I totally understand. But don’t fret. I know I didn’t take
you with me, but I can bring a few slices to you to taste. So, this month, my
efforts are to paint the pages of my blog Caribbean.
When the word “Caribbean” comes to mind, a
lot of words come to mind too. Its amazing how much is packed into that word.
For a tourist “Caribbean” would mean sea, sun tans, massages, coconuts, bikinis
(for the men tourists), beaches, sand, sea food and cocktails. For an
adventurous sportsperson it would be swimming, scuba diving, surfing and para
sailing. For a child, it would be sand castles, playing in the sea, imitating
pirates. For a historian it would be studying the ‘chcheena jhapti’ that went
on for centuries in this area by colonial powers. For an oceanographer it would
be the marine life, the corals and clams, the tectonic plates and maybe some
kind of spoons too. Phew! I am sure there is more.
So, Caribbean isn’t just a word, or a group
of islands, or a hot holiday destination, it’s a whole concept. Personally, I
am always reminded of “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “The Treasure Island.” Hence,
I have decided to review both this month. Apart from that, I can’t help sighing
each time I remember my lovely trip to Cartagena. So, if you want some
vicarious pampering, read on. And if you yourself have some Caribbean
experiences, please tell me. I am all ears and you are welcome!
If you called again I would leave
For your treasures are dearer to me
Carry me in your tide again
Take me away, O’ Caribbean
Take me away with thee
