Author: Jon West (---.dca.state.ga.us)
Date: 09-06-11 15:45
Hi, Hope,
I think it was my post (from a few weeks back) that mentioned October being slower and some places being closed. I apologize if that worried you.
Terrie hits the nail on the head in her reply to your post.
We've been to Culebra once before in October--we got engaged. We liked it so much that we're going back (for our honeymoon)--the last week of October, this year.
Yes. Options were slightly reduced for restaurants--a few that we'd have like to have enjoyed were closed. But, by no means did we have trouble finding all the supplies, groceries, awesome experiences, yummy restaurants, etc. that we wanted and needed. Honestly, having a few less options makes it easier for us to decide what to do--the pressure of making up your mind is reduced. :)
We consistently overpack and we have stopped to pick up supplies on the mainland on our way to the Ferry terminal. You really end up feeling dumb when you get to Culebra and realize the money you wasted on extra luggage and the time you wasted on the big island when you could've been on your way to the little island. All the basics are totally available on the Culebra and for pretty much the same price as if you'd stopped at Wal-Mart (yuck) on the way.
A few Culebra tips it took us a little while to figure out:
--Try to avoid mid-afternoon sun. Sunblock never seems to last as long as you think and nobody like to be irritated by a burn while on vacation.
--The higher temps and sun make did-afternoon a perfect time for siesta! Temp and light seems better for swimming/snorkeling in the morning and early evening (to me), anyway.
--So, when you make your coffee (available on-island) in the morning, go ahead and make a whole pot--even if you're not going to drink that much. Freeze your excess coffee in ice trays. When you wake up from siesta, throw the coffee cubes (if you use ice, your beverage ends up watery), some sweetened condensed milk (available on-island), and some sweetener (available on-island) in a blender. You'll end up with an awesome post-siesta beverage. If you figure out a yummy alcohol-based addition to the recipe, please let me know.
--A peanut butter sandwich can be great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. And, they don't spoil if they get a little warm in your beach bag while you swim.
--Drink plenty of water. Take some to the beach with you.
--If you go to Culebrita and want to hike to the lighthouse, remember this. Watch for the fork in the path. It's easy to miss. If you end up on a path that's overgrown, really steep, and looks like nobody has been there for a LONG time--you're probably on the wrong trail. :) Climbing over rocks, while fun, is not a necessary part of the experience.
--If your food is taking a little while to get to your table, order another beer, take a breath, and relax. Remember--you're not only there for the food but for the breath the relaxation, too.
--The road to Soldado may be scary. The snorkeling at the end is worth it.
--Waking up to a rooster crowing is always more pleasant than an alarm clock--even if it is a teensy bit earlier than you'd have preferred.
Have a great time, Hope. We're going to miss you by a couple of weeks or I'd have invited you for drinks. Be sure to come back to the forum after the trip and let us know how your trip was!
--jon
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