by Janie Chadwick

Hi everyone,

On every island in the Caribbean you will find some white sand, some palm trees, some blue green water and some sunshine. What you will find on Vieques, and nowhere else, are horses. They are everywhere. Whether you are a first timer, a many timer or a resident, there is little that is more beautiful than a herd of horses grazing along the shoreline on the way to Green Beach or in the lush fields of Sun Bay. Likewise, there is little that is more harrowing than driving around a corner and finding another herd of horses standing in the middle of the road.

These horses are known as Paso Finos. The Paso Fino is a native of Spain, having been brought by Columbus to the New World. They are relatively small of stature, when compared to a Thoroughbred or Quarter Horse, but are extremely strong. They are found in all colors, which make for an interesting mix of duns, bays, chestnuts, grays and even pintos. Their gait is a four beat step in which each foot hits the ground independently. The gait is a very comfortable ride, hence the name Paso Fino which translates in English to “fine step”.

One would think with all these horses available that rides through the surf would be a dime a dozen, just like you see on the TV ads for the Caribbean. However, there are just two stables that offer trail rides. On the north side of the island you will find Seagate Hotel on a hill near the Fort. The proprietor is Penny Miller, a long time resident of Vieques. For reservations call 787-667-2805. On the south side, in Esperanza, Elizabeth and Dondy, have a stable of approximately 10 horses. Their number is 787-435-0073. Both offer trail rides through mountainous terrain and along the water. Their horses are well cared for and well mannered, thus suitable for all riding abilities.

Easter in Vieques is another unique experience. On Good Friday, March 21, head to Esperanza around 5 pm or so to see the Stations of the Cross, performed by members of the local church community. The program starts around the corner from the Trade Winds Restaurant, runs along the Malecon and the finale is across from the Green Store, where Jesus rises with the backdrop of the old sugar mill. There are seven stops to reenact the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. The participants spend a great deal of time rehearsing and the event is always exceedingly well attended. Parking can be difficult to find, so car pool where possible or take a publico.

It is a local tradition to camp on the beach and have a family celebration. Whether you live in Puerto Rico or on Vieques, you camp. These camps are established about a week before Easter Sunday and are not simply tents with a few chairs. It is not unusual to see generators, four poster beds, small refrigerators and even a washing machine. (true story). Additionally, this celebration smells delightful, as the ladies go all out with food preparation. Pasteles, pastillos, carrucho and pulpo salads, rice and beans, mofongo, roast pork, and the like are the order of the hour. There is also a bit of macaroni and cheese thrown in the mix. Owing to the generous nature of the people here, don’t be surprised if you are invited to join them in a bite to eat.

Speaking of food, there are a few food updates for this month. Margaret (a.k.a. Marge) is back in the kitchen after a few years hiatus. She is preparing breakfast and lunch on Mondays and Tuesdays at the Trade Winds. She will fill you up fast with a breakfast burrito or a Kobe beef burger. Dinner at Trade Winds has become a truly fishy affair. Owners Harry and Janet have cornered the market on fresh fish. Every night there choices like Tuna, Salmon, Grouper, Mahi, Flounder, Cobia, Swordfish, and of course local spiny Lobster. The piece d’ resistance, however, is the Prince Edward Isle mussels. They are to die for. Give them a call 787-741-8666.

In Isabel Segunda, the Blue MaCaw has opened up the back deck complete with full bar and a ginormous tree overlooking the courtyard. They are open every night, serving both a fine dining menu and a pub menu. This is great when one of you would prefer to dine on Chilean Sea Bass and the other would be happy with a chicken Quesada. You can do it at the same table in the same restaurant. The menu changes daily giving you a fantastic selection. The ambience is sensational and the staff is gracious. There is also a happy hour every day from 5:30 to 7:30 which is a great time to sample some exotic martinis. 787-741-1147.

Also in town, and new to Vieques is Peter’s, located in the building where Tropical Baby used to be, next to Colmado Molino. The food is an eclectic mix of dishes such as Shrimp and Grits, Meatloaf and Eastern European style Pierogies. They have just added on a front porch so it is easy to spot the restaurant on a drive by. There is limited seating so reservations are definitely a good idea. 787-494-1850.

A little entertainment update. Bananas has Kiwi Kim singing every Friday and Sunday beginning at 5pm until 8pm. There is Karaoke (fondly known here as Scareoke) every Saturday night at Al’s Mar Azul. There is a kicking DJ every Sunday at La Nasa on the Malecon in Esperanza for trying out your salsa and meringue. So, change out of your riding boots, clear your throats, dust off your dancing shoes and have some fun this month.

Thanks for reading!
 
Janie

PS: If there is anything you would like to see in the newsletter or have any feedback please email Ask Judy. Thanks.  askjudy@enchanted-isle.com 

<click here for the archives>

 If any of you would like to see something specific in this newsletter please contact the webmaster and I will do my best to investigate for you. 
Email: whats_happenin@enchanted-isle.com 

BACK

Past Articles

Page Design by:
Positive Image Graphix © All Rights Reserved
For information on your own Website:
E-Mail: webmaster@positivimage.com
Site was last revised: 03/22/13