Mystery Island! 

 The name inspires thoughts of buried treasure, strange primitive ceremonies, hidden tunnels and Dr. No type facilities. In reality, this is a perfect little slice of paradise in the nation of Vanuatu. There are no residents and it takes 15-20 minutes to walk the circumference, but it has startling crystal turquoise waters and a center of jungle-like foliage. Today, Thursday, Feburary 11^th for us folks on this side of the International Dateline ( Wednesday, February 10^th for the rest of you) we anchored off shore to spend the day basking or baking in the sun and swimming in the ocean. Locals from the nearby island of Tanna sailed over bringing offers of rides in outrigger canoes, cruises to the island of Tanna and 30 minute walking tour and a variety of other local “excursions.” They also brought their music and lots of smiles all around.

David and I took one of the early tenders over, hoping to miss the most intense sun, and were rewarded with less people and a wonderful soak in the ocean. The temperature was only in the 80's and the sea water comfortably refreshing. We walked around the island and picked up some amazing shells: red and white, violet, rusty brown—small but perfect little treasures.

To back up a bit, I to go back two days when we visited Lautoka, Fiji. Lautoka is known as Fiji's “Sugar City,” because sugar represents one half of the islands' economic base, the other half is tourism.

For those who follow golf, Hall of Famer and former world number one golfer, Vijay Singh, grew up here in Lautoka. It is said that he practiced his game by hitting coconuts, since they were a lot more plentiful than golf balls. Another famous person who adopted Lautoka as his home was actor Raymond Burr, of “Perry Mason” and “Ironsides” history. He spent may years living at his home surrounded by gardens of orchids. About 40 % of the residents are originally from India, and their ancestors were imported by the boatload to work in the sugar cane fields. Many Indian families have immigrated away from Fiji do to the political changes and the desire of the indigenous Fijians to create a more balanced poplulation.

David and I took the shuttle into town and walked around. We browsed in an array of shops, many carrying Indian saris, jewelry, etc. The downtown area has a less than prosperous look to it, but the area that we rode through looked fairly well maintained. We did go into a local supermarket, one of our favorite things to do in a foreign port. 

 We saw familiar brands, but in unfamiliar packaging, and lots of colorful groceries that we had not seen before. There was no fresh meat, all of it was frozen or canned, similar to what we saw in Hawaii. Lots of multi-packs of mosquito coils. Insects are a problem in these islands.

We began our anti-malaria prophylaxis yesterday, because malaria in endemic in Vanuatu. We are to continue it daily until we are in China, where malaria is not an issue. Of course, just taking the medication is not sufficient protection and we are urged to use insect repellent and bug proof clothing, too.

Upon returning to the ship, we played some Hand and Foot, and David beat me badly. We used the only non-card table in the card room. The rest of the tables were reserved for bridge. I would guess there were about 50 people playing contract bridge when we were there.

After dinner and the show, “The Tourist,” which is a combination of light and high tech special effects, we hit bed hard. David caught a cold a few days ago and generously shared it with me. Fortunately, it seems to be short lived, but it is going around the ship.

Yesterday was a sea day, a combination of Ash Wednesday and Mardi Gras. Pilates was at 8 am, and then we talked with fellow guests until 10:30 am when Ocean Views was presented in the Galaxy Theatre. This was a panel discussion on current issues that we are all concerned about: terrorism, the refugee crisis, and the presidential primaries. The panel consisted of 4 of the recent lecturers who are experts in their field. It was moderated by Ken Rees. We were each given an electronic device to record our opinion about he issues. Terrorism and nuclear proliferation were the two things worrying most of the audience, and the panelists had different view points about the risks, management and future with these concerns. On the whole, not an uplifiting scenario. As far as the presidential candidates are concerned, the audience was backing Hilary, with surprising Trump support (though maybe not surprising given the demographics on a Crystal Cruise.) Bernie had a very small support.

The afternoon passed quickly, as it always does. David worked on his photos and I read and did some business on the internet.

We have friends on board Symphony now, who are circumnavigating South America and did Antarctica. According to my friend, they had to miss the port where provisions were to be taken on board, and consequently, the supplies are to be trucked or flown to Puerto Montt, the next stop. Crystal ships its supplies to specific ports all over the world. There are no fresh vegetables or salad components left—but fortunately, plenty of chocolate chip cookies. The seas have been very rough and there were some broken limbs. But my friend said she would do this itinerary again in a heartbeat!

Last evening, we met friends from our table, Sharon and Ken, for drinks in The Cove and were treated to a Mardi Gras celebration by the entertainment staff in full costume doing a typical Mardi Gras parade. The “Bourbon Street” Galaxy Orchestra, under the talented leadership of our friend, Raph, provided spirited Dixieland Music with vocalist, Sarah Hayes (a delightful and friendly performer—thank you, Ilene!) The entertainment staff passed out beads and masks and many of us took to the floor for dancing and fun. Crystal really knows how to throw a party!

The entertainment last evening was one that I was suspect about initially. It was a concert by the organist, Hector Olivera, who was billed as a “One Man Orchestra.” I am certainly glad that we went. He was fantastic! It is incredible the sounds that he gets out of the organ, and we look forward to another performance by him. (Peter and Brian, do look him up, I know you will be interested.)

Tomorrow, we are in our first of two stops in New Caledonia. Unfortunately, the weather report calls for rain. We have been so lucky with the weather, we really can't complain.

Lunch selection at the Lido Cafe

Stay tuned in two days for the next installment! Xoxo