Caribbean Trip - Things to Look For

[Guest guest]

> > I am going on a cruise end of March that will hit San Juan, St.

Thomas,

> > & St. Maarten. Wondered if any of you knowledgeable folks might have

> > any ideas of herbs, oils, EO's, etc. that might be good to look for on

> > those islands...for example, I understand Bay Rum is frequently a good

> > " local " buy in the Caribbean. And any input on what to

avoid/watch out

> > for would be appreciated as well!

 

 

I was in the Caribbean over the summer and have travelled there quite

extensively through out my life. I never saw any hint of real oils

anywhere, but lots of soaps/toiletries/perfumes with artificial

ingredients. The best being on Bermuda

(http://www.bermuda-perfumery.com/) - the worst in any touristy-type

place. However, I did find TONS of good spices. While in Grenada

several years ago, a local taxi driver took us to a nutmeg grove and

assured us it was ok to load up on the nuts that were on the forest

floor. We literally took sacks of nutmeg with mace back to the

states. I doubt we could do this again, with the tight customs and

security.

 

The flowers are amazing - for that alone I'd go back just to have

fresh frangipani in my room everyday. I'd love to go again with

equipment for enfluerage.

 

Speaking of taxi drivers - get them to show you the local hang outs

and restaurants. Try to avoid the tourist places and get off the

beaten path. A day trip to the Nat Forest on St. John's would be

really amazing. Plenty of great music and dancing around too.

Above all - watch out for that dark rum! Ask for fresh nutmeg on your

drinks, and drink plenty of water too!

 

Have fun!!

 

JenB