Guadeloupe: European Caribbeans

Guadeloupe By Luca, Sabrina and Federico

 

In the international situation is far from clear, with just consumatasi war in Iraq, but there is also a dangerous virus which, although almost exclusively distributed in the east, has frightened somehow Sabrina. In addition there are to be disposed of annoying after a speech to the meniscus of the undersigned. Nevertheless, God willing, we, after a long winter and, ironically, for the third consecutive year April 21 to Guadeloupe in the French Antilles.
The alarm clock is, as usual, soon enough: a little after 6:00 we are already standing and we prepare a calm, since everything is ready and there remains nothing but breakfast. Frederick, however, after a few moments needed to be aware of reality, is now beset by enthusiasm ... Less exciting are, on the contrary, the weather: the sky is gray and it rains insistently.
Arrive at 7:15 to take the grandparents, with the campers, to accompany us to the airport and loaded the luggage at 7:26 we leave the house. Fifteen minutes later, at 7:42, we enter into a motorway in Faenza, but there is a time to be wolves, and this serves only to increase our desire to arrive at their destination.
At 8:00 and leave from the start to take the ring road of Bologna to arrive shortly after, at 8:19, at Marconi. We welcome grandparents, in turn, about to leave for a short trip in Puglia, and enter the departure hall with cart load of bags on top of which is, as with tradition, the baby smiling.
Immediately embark luggage, give us a coffee, without any problems beyond the check-in and we put ourselves waiting at the door number thirteen, from where we board (Af Flight 1229) at a time in Paris, as it happens, precisely the systematic 21 April, at least two years. The wait is so short, just after 9:30, cross the door, climb on a bus and reach the Air France Airbus A319 that, in slight delay, at 10:24 a.m., takes off, while consistent with which continues to go down the rain is disarming and only after several minutes of flight, exceeded in height the clouds, we can finally see the warm sunshine!
The white storage under us thins out only for a short period of time, leaving a glimpse of the snowy Alps, then takes over and keeps it for practically the entire journey, until, at Charles De Gaulle, which landed at 11 : 40, leaves no room for the clear sky.
We leave the plane and we put ourselves in anticipation of cases, we will have power to withdraw, first to move in the second airport in Paris to Orly, from which stand out clearly from the last flight to the Caribbean. We expect one quarter of an hour under a warm sun, then, at 12:50 p.m., climb on a bus, whose excessively tinted windows do not allow us to see anything along or near the thirty minute journey, while Federico, weary levataccia the risks of falling asleep several times. In the end, however, we are in the departure hall of Orly, the new basket in hand, ready for another shipment.
The plane, it seems, is complete and, unfortunately, the three places assegnatici are not all close, so, a little 'disappointed, we put ourselves on hold, the number thirty-two door, opposite to which, shortly after the 14 : 00, operations begin boarding Flight 624 Af.
Just got on the plane, luckily, a French girl asks us if we are to change our ticket Spai with her: there seems to be able to truly solve all our problems in such a short time, but we are all together again, conveniently seated row forties and to expect only the time of takeoff. At 15:26, after a long run after, the giant Boeing 747 Air France takes part directly in Pointe-à-Pitre, on the islands of Guadeloupe, and shortly after Richard and Sabrina can finally take a rest, while under us, preventing many clouds to see the ground. When sparsely s'intravedono some islands off the coast of Brittany, and then have lunch, even if they are already past 16:00, the ocean opens up before us and the video are miles ahead ... still more than three thousand!
Many, many clouds dominate the scene for much of the Atlantic crossing, then, two hours flight from the goal, it is the deep blue of the sea, which remains until you get inside a big Nuvolone under which the our island, where landed, catching six hours of time at 17:51 local time.
La Guadeloupe (to which it belongs, politically, even St. Martin) is a French overseas department and as such is, in fact, a piece of Europe to the Caribbean, it will use in this case the euro as money and will be a great convenience not having to change.
Seen on the map, then, Guadeloupe, (which has a total area of 1434 square kilometers) calls to mind the silhouette of a butterfly, it is composed of two adjacent islands, of volcanic origin, which ideally form the wings. However, the symmetry that can be detected in the contour does not match any morphological analogy. Grande-Terre, the eastern part, presents a low-lying or gently hilly, largely used for growing sugar cane. Basse-Terre, the western part, is high and mountainous island, full of hills and hills covered by dense rain forest of tall trees and lush ferns.
Stopping to think, finally, on the two islands it is impossible not to note an apparent contradiction: the eastern island that is smaller and is called flat Grande-Terre (big land), the largest island and mountain is called Basse -Terre (low land). All this makes it clear that it was not considering the nature of the soil to inspire the people of France that gives the islands, but the winds that sweep: the trade winds from the northeast blowing impetuous (or large) on the plains of Grande-Terre, but are holding back from the mountains that rise to the west, the spirit and weak (or low) on Basse-Terre.
Do not blow at all, however, the wind, when the plane go down, the international airport of Pointe-à-Pitre, and is also very hot, but unfounded since we came here for this.
Retrieve and save the sound and suitcases fall short in the shadows of the evening, and meet representatives from Exotismes (the same tour operator that we used during the trip to Mauritius). We are then invited to climb on a bus that, after having run for a half hour abbondante, downloading tourists missing to the right and along the southwestern coast of Grande-Terre, leaves us in front of Marifa immediately after Gosier (the tourist capital of Guadeloupe), near the village of Mare-Gaillard, where to stay for the duration of the trip.
The tourist, already know, is not on the seashore, but it matters little, provided it is comfortable, in fact we should rather sleep ... the only thing that among other things we want to do tonight, given the devastating consequences of the time zone. So when we deliver the keys to room number 415 (which seems quite large and comfortable), after a refreshing shower, we soon doze off in our beds ... Tomorrow will start a visit to Guadeloupe, which we hope is at least as beautiful is beautiful at this time, finally able to close his eyes slipping, gently, into the world of dreams.

The day starts early, with Sabrina and Federico already awake shortly after 4:00 due to time zone, then, about an hour later, we all come together on the terrace of the room, with wide-open eyes, to enjoy the sunrise that ignites the sky of the Caribbean.
Calmly begin to prepare and equip the backpacks until, as soon as possible (ie a few minutes after 7:00), leave to go to breakfast: we are not alone and that, if nothing else, we consoled. Meanwhile, we notice that the weather conditions are not optimal, because the sky is cloudy, but I think that sooner or later the sun will come out to dominate the scene.
At 8:15 we have an appointment with Daniel Exotismes, but not present at the reception and we do know that usually comes to Marifa on Wednesday ... little evil: I do not think should tell us much more than what we already know.
We require a rental car and shortly afterwards is an official of the Sixt, which invites us to go with him. Come on Richard and I, while Sabrina is in the hotel to expect. The offices of the company are located in Bas-du-Fort, just before the Pointe-à-Pitre, these are more or least ten miles, but there is a lot of traffic on the city and spend a good half hour. Another half an hour requires the drafting of the contract, then we address the way back and when we come to find Sabrina Marifa somewhat 'worried and irritated by the time it takes, but we do not have any guilt. Soon, however, back the good humor and, at about 10:00, we can finally leave, on board of our new Blue Point (786 targato WWK 971), the discovery of Guadeloupe.
We go a few kilometers west of Mare-Gaillard, in nearby St. Félix to see an area on which I had serious doubts ... concerns that are not even sopiti not worth wasting any more time and change our cardinal point. Let's go to the east, past our hotel and we reach the village of St. Anne, where we spend a providential and a supply of fuel is very essential to judge by the light of the reserve on.
Nearby is one of the most famous beaches of Guadeloupe: the Plage de la Caravelle, despite that extends right in front of the exclusive Club Mediterranée is in the public domain and accessible to all. Just enter a revolving gate, which probably will be closed for safety during the night and you are sull'arenile, all the sand, edged by a spectacular grove of palm trees ... but the day will be perhaps not too clear and light, not exactly right, but everything appears as it should, in addition, of course, the place is too much exploited for tourism.
We moved into the vicinity of the trees, then take a bath and lunch, while the sun slowly, slowly take the upper hand in the early afternoon and the sky is an intense blue. The light changes, it gets brighter and light up the extraordinary colors of the sea: it seems to be in another place and everything is more beautiful!
We literally enjoy the Plage de la Caravelle on all the time, while a local boy is taken in sympathy Federico and the first half offers a coconut, then gave him a nice bracelet made with the roots of the plant. The afternoon flies by in a flash and when the sun along with our friend improvised Caribbean leave, ce we went.
In a supermarket in St. Anne buy a chicken on the spit, chips and baguette, so you can dine in the room in anticipation of an evening still dominated by the effects of time zone, in fact, shortly after eight in the evening eyelids are heavy and soon yield to the temptation to close them, however, recalling that first day, without a doubt positive at Guadeloupe ... and if the good days you can see the morning ...

Let us miss the sunrise but we are still far Early Bird, in fact, shortly after 6:00, we are all already awake and pimpanti, eager to face another day, but in reality there is no hurry because, of course, breakfast can not be consumed before 7:00.
The sky is clear and I think that will change the current program, which provided a full day at sea, to visit a part of Basse-Terre normally dominated by clouds, so that we can offer a little 'break the skin, red after the first days of tropical sun.
8:15 to expect Daniel to recepiton, but this time no-show. We do know that it will meet this evening at 18:30, but at that hour, perhaps, we shall not be. Meanwhile let us not lose any more time and took the time to follow the coast to the west in the direction of Pointe-à-Pitre and Basse-Terre.
We leave behind the main town of Grande-Terre and beyond the bridge that links the two islands, across the narrow channel called mangrove Rivière Sale, then, a handful of miles later, turn right following the Route de la Traversée, l 'only road that cuts in two of the island through the National Park of Guadeloupe.
The ribbon of asphalt running between two wings of dense vegetation touching, one after the other, other points of interest, the first of which is the Cascade aux Ecrevisses.
Park your car at the edge of the road and follow the directions, we follow a path that is adventure in lush rainforest on the edge of a stream, and before long reached the place where, with a spectacular leap, a lateral tributary flows in a typical pool and then to placidly into the main. There are many tourists who make the bathroom and would be a bell'esperienza imitate them, but fresh-wet is one of the few things that it is better not to do in Guadeloupe for the possible presence of some parasites that if contracts, end up unleash the bilharzia, a dangerous disease. We take some photos, let run for a while Federico 'between the stones that form the contour to the site and then go back to the main road.
We stop a little further ahead at the Maison de la Forêt, a small documentary of the park whose shoulders past a picturesque suspension bridge (which scares some 'Sabrina Federico but fun), it unravels a circuit that, in twenty minutes of walking, creating some idea of what are the main features of the rainforest, among the incredible amount of plant species present and a moisture that takes away almost breath.
Let the Maison de la Forêt is that, in practice, half-way through the Route de la Traversée and immediately encounter the roughness mountain Les Mamelles those which by their form, they should just remember a female breast, but despite all efforts we fail to see them side by side, to the detriment, of course, of the effect.
Go up, then following signs to Morne a Louis, a hill where there are several antennas, and from which you can enjoy a magnificent view to three hundred and sixty degrees on Guadeloupe: s'intravede also, in an area beyond the fronds of trees, the Ilet Pigeon, where we go in the afternoon.
Before descending to the sea we stop, however, once again: the Parc des Ma-Melles, a small zoo and botanical park where we can see (unfortunately in captivity) the washer bear, symbol of the National Park of Guadeloupe, but above all, to the delight of the small, we expect a pleasant surprise. There is the possibility to follow a system equipped with a gate that allows you to take a walk to the breathtaking top of the trees. Sabrina did not hear, but we, "hard men", wear the safety harness, and we enjoy a unique, suspended for more than ten meters in height.
Satisfied at the end leave the park and begin to fall, at bends towards the west coast of Basse-Terre. So we reach the Plage de Malendure from where we leave at 14:30, for a boat to dirimpettaia Ilet Pigeon, which is part of the Réserve Cousteau, a protected marine park.
Pending take a bath the water is nice and warm, but Basse-Terre is the most volcanic part of Guadeloupe and the sand is not dark background colors of the sea, so we think palm trees, lined the edges dell'insenatura , to characterize the place, which after all is not bad considering that, unfounded, we must spend less than two hours ... Right time to freshen up and have lunch, then we are near the pier waiting to leave for the trip.
Take off, as the sun, unfortunately, no longer as abundant in the morning and close dell'isolotto we are invited to descend into the keel of the vessel, equipped with large windows through which we can to see the underwater world, which is not nothing exceptional if we exclude a large flock of fish attracted, probably, with food, but the little he enjoys and is this enough to make us happy.
Later we stop too close to a cove for snorkeling: Sabrina is still on board, because the lack of sun the cold, but not big things you lose, because the visibility is low and fish are much less ... a little disappointed if you think it should be a marine park, but perhaps the beauty elsewhere, as in the area are abundant diving centers. Meanwhile, the sky is growing dark, and when we return to Plage de Malendure falls even a few drops of rain, then climb in the car and went ce.
We back all the Route de la Traversée and when we arrive on the eastern side of Basse-Terre, in the distance, Grande-Terre s'intravede flooded by the sun ... as it was logical to think it is! So once you arrive at hotel at 17:00, we find the right conditions to take a short bath in the little pool ... then go up in the room to prepare for dinner.
Meeting at 18:30, at last, Daniel: I say, in effect, no need of anything, and I sincerely for the information relating to the transfer of the last day from the airport.
For dinner we go out in the car, but he could do on foot, in fact we stop in the nearby pizzeria Le Mahogany: nothing special, just enough to plating the hungry, then go back to Marifa and rethinking the beautiful day just passed ( that Frederick was even, at times, exciting!), we soon fell asleep ... the time zone is tough to digest ... harder pizza Caribbean!

Even today, the third day, is not a problem waking up early, so they take advantage and just after 7:00 we have breakfast, as are guests of nearly Marifa. At 8:00, then we are already in the street, directly east along the coastal road.
Past St. Anne and arrive almost at the far eastern tip of the island, St. François, where we put ourselves in search of the port, from which we should, presumably, leave for a couple of excursions, including a fully organized.
After several ups and find the marina and parked the car, I put the search for all the necessary information, so dazzled by the size of Paradoxe catamaran, moored on the pier in front of us, book, with that, un'escursione to Îles de la Petite-Terre for next Wednesday, April 30 (and fortunately that our stay in Guadeloupe is two weeks, because before there was no place!), then I have confirmation from that port, all day at 8:00, the ferry set sail for the island of La Désirade.
Now everything is clearer and, ultimately, for two times in the near future we will have to "rush" to get to this place before 7:30 am, but I think it will be a sacrifice then rewarded. This morning, however, have already risen from a little 'when we go to 9:00 on the beach of St. François, the Plage de Raisins clairs, a clear bell'arenile sand lapped by an extraordinary sea, although it is in the immediate vicinity town.
Right time to put the sheets and leaves the sun ... also begins to rain, but not be alarmed because this is, of course, a passing cloud, it does not go over ten minutes and you turn all the "spotlight" on the beach and crystal clear lagoon in front of us, so We rushed to the water to enjoy a fantastic bathroom ...
Heading in the us and dried, then, with Richard, I go for a walk along the bagnasciuga looking for a coconut, but we are not so lucky and the return, when, after yet another bathroom, have lunch in the shade of a tree for fruit we should do with the bananas purchased at the supermarket ... not matter, because the landscape before us is beautiful, the temperature is pleasant at this time we can not wish for more.
In early afternoon we start looking for another beach: we go further north, in the town of Le Moule, to see the nearby Plage de l'Autre Bord, but is on the exposed side of the island and not particularly inviting .
Then we cut to the inside of Grande-Terre and return close to St. Anne to go to the beach of the village, which is a stretch of coastline, bordered by palm trees and features a very calm sea, including the presence of some artificial reefs , vaguely reminiscent of our shores.
The place is quite crowded and overly fruity touristically, but the presence of the most classic and photogenic tropical trees creates angles particularly striking and deserves more than one affected and escape. We do a bath and we will stop until the sun disk, falling between the fronds degl'alberi not highlight the beauty of the place, then, without hurry, we return to Marifa.
Later, after an indispensable shower, go out for dinner and we stop all'Espace Grill, along the road to Gosier. There, we eat fish, pa-tate and grilled ribs: good and cheap! Then finally we return to the store and another good day in many ways, first of all the wonderful sea of Guadeloupe.

We start around 8:00 from Marifa with the intention of going in the north of Basse-Terre, where there are a couple of attractive beaches, but arrived on the bridge that links the two main islands of Guadeloupe notice several clouds stationed just on that towards which we direct ... and if there are several already in the morning there is a real risk of going in for a bad day.
Immediately reversed course and change the program, exploiting the advantage of being on a territory the size relatively small and have, above all, alternatives.
We go just in Pointe-à-Pitre: chief town of Grande-Terre, and most important city of Guadeloupe, but not its administrative capital, a role which falls to Grande-Terre, on the island.
The conurbation is rather chaotic at times bruttina, with large residential buildings, often dilapidated, who replaced in toto colonial buildings (they remain a couple, sadly beleaguered by the cement that makes), but let us, above all, to visit the colorful markets. We start from fruits and vegetables, and then fish and finally to spice ... all things are fairly characteristic and some purchase is a must, so we end up buying, in practice, the opportunity to take some photos, for which otherwise we should have one dose of nerve that we, instead, we are sadly lacking.
By mid morning we leave Pointe-à-Pitre and we move towards the north of Grande-Terre in the country through the Morne-à-l'Eau that goes curiously famous for its cemetery, built in the same distinctive style of all others Guadeloupe, but particularly impressive because situated in a sort of natural amphitheater that makes it resemble, at a glance, a town in miniature, in which stand out the bizarre decorations checkered white and blacks.
People in Morne-à-l'Eau, according to the guide, are a little 'irritated by the fact that the cemetery is in some way become a tourist attraction, then stealthily shoot quite a few photos and promptly take the road that runs towards the sea.
We arrive in the country on the coast of Port-Louis, now that it appears semi-almost-was a ghost town. Quite the opposite dell'esuberanza who breathe in its Plage de souffleur, where many children, materializzatisi in this place who knows where to run, emblazoning, swim and laugh, accompanied by their teachers.
The beach is beautiful, the water is beautiful and there is no doubt turn to Plage de souffleur the rest of the day.
We placed in the shade of a big tree, with children playing on our left and the cemetery of the village, over-built by the sea, to break into two nearly to the beach, on the right. We refresh with a long bath and then, with Richard, I also explore with mask and snorkel, the seabed is not evil in and near a rocky conformation are several fish that remain for a while 'to observe.
In a bathroom and the other is barely time for lunch, it is difficult to resist the call of that water and crystalline during the whole afternoon doing shuttling between the beach and the blue of the sea with, in the distance, the severe silhouette of Basse-Terre, always dominated by some cloud too, to be sentinel.
We stay until the sun drops toward the horizon, then the children return to their homes and in the most absolute silence ignite the magic colors of the sunset: the atmosphere is intoxicating and the warm light that emanates spreads shock of pure energy that regenerate mind and body, then the shadows of the evening take the upper hand, and drunk of new vitality, we should return to the hotel.
Has been made a little 'late because of the sunset and solicitude we prepare for dinner, we consume in clubs of St. Anne (Le Locullus), then we are in bed: we do not want to lose the habit to wake up early, so you can enjoy as long as possible the extraordinary places that we can offer daily, Guadeloupe.

For the first time we open our eyes thanks to the sound of alarm: a magnificent sun shines and we move toward the north of Basse-Terre. We leave behind Pointe-à-Pitre, beyond the bridge on Rivière Sale and we will venture into that part of the island we had seen yesterday.
Shortly after the village of Lamentin turn inwards and reach the Domaine de Séverin: an estate in which it produces sugar cane and rum first then. There is the possibility of examining them with the help of a train, but we must wait forty-five minutes and the thing to tell the truth, not c'ispira that much, so we make a short walk over the little fin ' entry and then go back on our steps along the coastal road.
A few kilometers before the village of Sainte-Rose, however, we stop at the Musée du Rhum, and this time they carry out the visit. All in all, it is interesting, with a route that runs between the old tools of the trade and a rich collection of insects from the most varied parts of the world (very beautiful though completely off topic), not only allow you to use photo and video cameras, which are requisite even before entering ... and who knows what extraordinary and exclusive pictures we could steal second direction of the small museum as intransigent Caribbean.
Before you go looking for a beach adiamo in the port of Sainte-Rose to take information about a possible hike on the nearby Ilet Caret, but everything is closed and the result of our investigations, for now, is only a trivial number, then continue along the last stretch of road, cutting to the interior of the island, there all'insenatura port of Grande-Anse, in the north-west coast of Basse-Terre.
Park your car and now I am meeting, furtively, a Rasta, which despite the heat wearing a heavy leather jacket: one looks around and asks me if smoke ... answer no, I stopped by six months, and these, after a futile attempt to make me return, as if nothing had happened, himself ... Now everything is clearer and has attracted the eye bandana wearing yellow today, because some did not intend to sell me a pack of cigarettes! But our preferred drug is called to travel and know new places, like the beautiful beach of Grande-Anse, in fact: the whole trip by palm trees, with green mountains behind us and marked with a special golden sand, not white, because we are at the vulcanic of Guadeloupe.
The sea is inviting and makes a great heat, so we remain long in the water to look cool, then after lunch, starting immediately with the intention to change the beach, because in Grande-Anse, there are trees near bagnasciuga and unique, rather distant, its collapse can be found behind a hollow dell'arenile preventing the breeze from the sea to cool the air, making the temperature almost unbearable.
Walk a few kilometers to the nearby Anse de la Perle, who has much in common with the beach from which we come, but this is important, gives us the opportunity to stay in the shade of the trees almost by the sea, a sea characterized by large waves, in which Frederick and I are fighting a long time. The fun for the little that has just finished a bath, one-hour, asking when he will do next ... so after a while 'so satisfied and in the end is the right time to dry before closing the day bathing.
On the way back we pass, again, from Sainte-Rose want to book the excursion all'Îlet Caret, but are still closed: it means that tomorrow will try to telephone, although it will not be easy to understand. Meanwhile, on our right, we see large Nuvoloni discharging water onto the center of Basse-Terre, and we leave a little 'intimidated by the weather in the coming days.
We arrive without rain, the Marifa and later go out for dinner in the nearby pizzeria, then we go into an internet cafe in our doubts sopire meteorological and pulling a deep breath of relief when we discovered that there are not worse in the coming days. .. so we can return to the room to sleep easy, even in anticipation of a day that tomorrow will start very soon.

It seems to be back in the early morning to 6:00 in fact we are already standing, but this time the time zone has no faults. We expect a very intense day we are going to start having breakfast in the room, as the Marifa none can offer the first of 7:00.
At 7:00, however, we are already on the street directly in St. François, whose marina at 8:00, leaving the ferry to the island of La Désirade: a rectangular table of limestone long and narrow (eleven kilometers for two), inhabited by no more than 1700 souls. It is located ten kilometers east of Guadeloupe and was the first land Columbus saw after his second Atlantic crossing when it was already short of water: hence the desire to strike the earth "and its name. The island is, among other things, the least developed and visited the islands and perhaps own for this reason that particularly stimulates our curiosity.
We are in perfect time, even in advance, and when we arrive on the pier where the ship is sailing with Hummingbird engines already running and several passengers on board, then we go up the tickets and we too, by placing the open air, in the rear of the craft.
While waiting for the phone all'Îlet excursion Caret: fortunately also speak Italian and can understand, but I do not give good news, I am fully up to May 6, when we will be already back in Italy. Things get complicated, but do not despair: we still have a week's time, and we will do everything possible to be able to set foot on quell'isolotto. Meanwhile, soon the feet poseremo them on the soil of La Désirade because the Hummingbird has been unplugged from the dock which was moored and is taking off.
Just outside the harbor and the barrier reef are beginning to blows because of the splashing waves and the resulting fall merciless on us, plus we can not change the seat because all the others are already occupied. During the half an hour we crossed so compelled to undergo a sort of artificial rain, resulting in delivery almost completely wet, but there is no need to dramatize why we are in the tropics and we do not think the cold.
Landing in the capital, Grande Anse, and now we are concerned to rent two scooters, so you can visit the island in complete freedom. We load the backpacks and Frederick, then take a refill of fuel and starting to discover the Désirade, while the bright smile on the lips of the small are the clearest proof of his satisfaction with the adventure undertaken.
Run along the only paved road and arrive early at the far western edge of the village of Les Galets, where the guide should be able to meet the iguanas. In fact we see some, in addition to the original cactus Tete d'Anglais, which for some strange reason, it called its "head of English"?
Spend some 'time on site, then come back towards the capital, the past and proceed shipped along the coast, passing close to the beach of Le souffleur, probably where we will stay later, and arrive in the village of Baie Mahault, almost the extreme opposite of the island. Here we see the ruins of an old cotton factory, with a beautiful cactus in front of him the guards ... and good thinking on the top of the plant recalls, vaguely, the headgear worn by royal guards, and perhaps his odd name derives from the particular! ... Who knows? Meanwhile, complete our brief tour of La Désirade stop and go, as planned, the beach of Le souffleur.
A grove of palm trees growing in front of a beautiful stretch of sea bordered by coral reefs, where the sand is white and fine as talcum powder is a little paradise, where there is peace and tranquility, where the thoughts that pervade the mind are very few and even fewer tourists present. So Richard can also find three coconuts, who later clean up their outer skin. Meanwhile we are now in the water to enjoy an unforgettable bath with a view of the palm trees and, farther, in the mountains, which are, in practice, from fifth to the natural scene.
Before noon, with difficulty but also with satisfaction, a system having the nuts, then have lunch with the show in front agl'occhi kindly offered by Mother Nature, but in the case tell the truth, I have a little concern for the head: the card credit I have left as deposit for the rental of scooters ... we hope people are honest and not take advantage of the situation!
The departure from St. François, this morning, there seemed to understand that the ferry for the return salperà, from Grande Anse at 15:45, so after yet another bathroom, and in the strong advance, we leave the beach and at 15:00 we have to return the scooter. But expect to find the lady of the rental, that immediately comes to meet us and grand gestures us that the boat is about to start! ... Exploding so suddenly the rush: leave the keys to its rightful owners, we collect all our things and start to run towards the wharf. We, fortunately, the Hummingbird still attached to the dock, but are already taking their moorings. Climb on board and five minutes later we take the deep (the 15:45, probably, was the time of arrival, not departure). We just shave if she had taken more calm we would not have succeeded in getting on quell'imbarcazione and we had to spend the night on the island, but all is well that ends well!
On the way back we see the curious flying fish, then a few minutes before 16:00, landing in St. François: We are still at least two hours of sun and we will stay, probably in a beach nearby. We try to Plage de Bois Jolana, just before St. Anne, but was not reported on them and rightly so, better go, a sure shot directly into the main beach of the country and thus enjoy the last hours of the day, although we must burrasca be around because it was an annoying wind up that we hope will calm soon.
We await the sunset and then return to do: we get up very early this morning and now is beginning to be felt tired, so we decide to dine in a room with a chicken on the spit, so that the small co-ricarsi as soon as possible.
It 'been a fantastic day and certainly among those close to remember ... despite the last vain attempt to book travel by phone all'Îlet Caret: tomorrow will try to beat another way, with the hope that it is the right one!

The intention would be to spend a whole day in Basse-Terre, in the area known to most of the rainy Guadeloupe, but when we get up we see that already several clouds lurking in those parts, so prepare a good alternative to the program.
Around 8:00 we leave the Marifa towards Pointe-à-Pitre and few miles before we stop capital-mo in his Marina, from which, for three days a week, leaves un'imbar application whose excursion includes Ilet the Caret. This is very publicized and should be also a good availability, but given past experience we approach the bench quite fearful of reservations, which we feel meet, however, with great relief that the problems are not there and that we must just choose the best day for us ... We choose the first available, that is tomorrow, because we do not want to absolutely run the risk of losing the chance to see one of the probably most beautiful of Guadeloupe. We would have liked, certainly, to do the trip in another way (from Sainte-Rose), but it was not possible and, ultimately, we can feel satisfied that you have found this solution.
Significantly raised the way back to Basse-Terre, but near the bridge that links the two islands we see that the clouds in front of us are really just too much for the 9:00 am ... and, normally, the situation can only get worse. Let us therefore take a good alternative: go back to Grande-Terre, and, pointing at the north of that, passing by the villages of Morne-à-l'Eau and Anse Bertrand until arriving at the site known as Pointe de la Grande Vigie.
A rocky promontory s'insinua Caribbean Sea, creating highly evocative scenery and a trail is developed on top of vertiginous cliffs, the sea foam and some tens of meters below. The view in the most clear days (not today) ranges in the distance to the islands of Antigua and Montserrat.
That is a good half hour to walk among the cliffs, admiring the view at times breathtaking, then go back to self and begin to follow the coastal road that descends along the eastern coast of Grande-Terre.
We arrive in this way to another vantage point: that, from top of cliffs, majestic views on the so-called Porte d'Enfer.
It 'a kind of fjord Caribbean, where the waters are calm, while outside s'infrangono large waves on the rocks that delineate the mouth ... hence probably the name Porte d'Enfer ( "Gate of hell" ... clearly done a hell of water).
We stop for a while 'time nell'insenatura: take a bath and after lunch start to the south, according to a certain distance to the coastline, then turn again towards the sea at about half of the eastern side of the island, until to reach the remote Anse Maurice.
The new beach is not anything exceptional, but even it can be discarded (the rest can not all be beautiful!). So we stop and spend relaxing in the rest of the afternoon with the little that game, Sabrina reading her book and myself which I delight to make a bracelet with the roots of Scilla (not palm), similar to that offered from a room in Frederick a few days ago, then we do one last bath, and just before 18:00, we take the street.
Around Morne-à-l'Eau im-mouth that a driveway, cutting through the hills, in Guadeloupe campaign, should enable us to greatly shorten the route, but the darkness is coming, and soon lose the compass, more you hear a strange smell of petrol ... desist better: we back-front and back to Morne-à-l'Eau so you can follow the safest route through Pointe-à-Pitre.
At 19:00 we Marifa and later leave for dinner all'Espace Grill, then immediately go back in the room: the days make good to wake up early, but just as soon sleep then comes ... Meanwhile, they have certainly gone a positive and, overall, the holiday is slipping away in the best possible way.

If, by chance, he imposed a house probably go on all the rage, however, here in Guadeloupe, the fact of getting up at 6:30 almost became an event of normal routine.
We do breakfast and shortly after 7:00 we are already on the street, because we are, finally, the much longed for trip all'Îlet Caret!
The distance to be traveled by car is not great and there's plenty of time but, as usual, traffic is slowed down in the direction of Pointe-à-Pitre and lose more time due to a local girl today decided to taste, with its Clio, the resistance of the rear bumper from our Punto (nothing serious, fortunately, because we were almost stationary). Despite all at 8:30, quarter of an hour before needed, we are on the Navy Pier, from where, at 9:00, I should sail the boat Papirus King, currently moored at dock and on which we are preparing to rise.
9:05 to leave the port and take off in the company, at most, other thirty people, and we are just because the boat can contain almost two hundred ... better this way: we more comfortable and Federico could run freely.
We follow the coastline to the west, we pass from the center of Pointe-à-Pitre (where is the market) and then c'inoltriamo in Rivière Sale, the narrow channel separating the two main islands, through inter alia under that same bridge once more, we crossed negl'ultimi days.
Satisfied in this way also the curiosity of the little odd for that underpass, then proceed shipped between two banks of dense mangroves, which usually nest in different species of birds, and regain the sea, which in this area is very calm and flat, protected com 'is the coral reef and sheltered from the winds.
Shortly before 11:00 hrs arrive all'Îlet Caret: a tiny piece of land dotted with sandy palm trees that is located several thousand meters off the northeast coast of Basse-Terre and near one of the largest coral reefs of Caribbean.
The King Papirus stops short distance from bagnasciuga and we go in that little paradise, where sky and sea, not touching but are close, producing fruit by a thin white line and a splash of green magistrale: when mother nature is able to melt harmony with the primordial elements at its disposal, there is no escape and is immediately kidnapped by the sublime result that emerges and sight of so much beauty.
Immediately run into the water to consume one of those bathrooms that will remain forever in memory, and meanwhile we continue to look around for almost absurd sorry beat eyelashes and losing for a moment of that landscape dreams.
Explore the seabed surrounding the island, but there are conformations coral in the immediate vicinity and it is to the detriment of fish, decidedly low. However, we find some beautiful starfish who shoot first and then carefully put in their habitat.
Shortly after noon we are an original aperitif offered by the sea, then go up to 13:00 on Papirus King for lunch, but there remain a minimum because as soon as we return to bask in the extraordinary reflections of the sea. Perhaps the effect of the punch, but it seems to live a dream with open eyes: the sun, which has moved behind us, now exalted view of the crystal on the background of the small island of palm trees edged ... is fantastic! ... almost unreal! ... as the object that flies just above the top degl'alberi (a Form 770 or shed, depending on the points of view ... but Sabrina did not drink the punch!).
Around 14:00, the siren rings out in the King Papirus: we have, against our will, come back on board and leave the Ilet Caret ... So, shortly afterwards, while sailing towards Rivière Sale, I fixed her gaze on that leaves Sabrina and asks me if I missed something ... "Yes", answer ideally, "a piece of heart ... but now I have left many around the world."
We are all extremely excited with the outcome of movement and browsing proceed at the pace of Caribbean music to the Marina of Pointe-à-Pitre, where calling a few minutes after 16:00.
We do some shopping in a convenience store near the landing and then we go to St. Anne, the Plage de la Caravelle, where we find again the character of bracelets and look to where the sun falls to close the curtain on worthy of a day, a say the least, memorable.
Later we return in the same town for dinner and, recalling the fabulous scenery Ilet Caret, spend a pleasant evening by the sea, the restaurant Koleur Kreol.

We are really insatiable: the alarm, in fact, this morning it sounds even a few minutes before 6:00, because we expect another hike, and we must be, again, in St. François by 7:30, to embark on the catamaran Paradoxe which will lead to the discovery of the Îles de la Petite-Terre, a tiny island located a few kilometers off the southeast coast of Grande-Terre and consists of two main islands (de-Terre and Basse-Terre-de-Haut) more than a few isolated rocks.
The tale of the fuel reserve is on already for some 'time, but know not to run the risk of arriving late, remembering what happened a year ago in St. Martin with his departure the catamaran ... This time, however, arrive in good time, we are the first to climb on board!
The day is a bit 'windy but the sun shines when we take the deep, around 8:00, leaving behind the port of St. François. Immediately begin to ride big waves, while, on the right, it exceeds the motor directly to the Hummingbird Désirade (with passengers in the rear already wet dagl'immancabili sketches).
To arrive at its destination serving over two hours of navigation, during which seems to be on a roller coaster, but it is worth. We know when we enter into the crystalline lagoon which is located between Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Basse, landing right on the beautiful beach of the latter, all of white sand and palm trees the customary trip, below which there system before you run immediately in water. Thus, while Sabrina, limited by a stiff neck annoying, you can enjoy a normal bath (if you can define normal, given the beauty of the place), Federico and I wear the mask and snorkel and go exploring in the reef in front of the bay: we see many Fish and long remain a witch in an attempt to take some photos, so the time passes and before long you noon.
Lunch in the shade of palm trees, with front agl'occhi the magnificent colors of the sea and the breath dell'aliseo to caress the face: it is divinely good, especially when finished eating we go back into the water to lull us from the waves and almost there we lose the basis for a short trip on foot on the island.
We aggregate in extremis to the group and follow the captain of the catamaran, immedesimatosi for the occasion in the shoes of the guide: we can see, in addition to the beacon that like so much to Federico, the low vegetation typical of a rather arid climate, in the midst of which are hiding some iguanas, which are also relatively close. Then we reach the side of the most exposed to wind and characterized by high cliffs on which crashed by force, the waves of the ocean.
We walk for more than half an hour under the sun and return accaldati pretty, but it is not a problem, it's just a good excuse to return to enjoy the lovely stretch of palm trees overlooking the water and stay for the entire time, until, little by little , our traveling companions do not add up sull'imbarcazione, then, without hurry, we follow them.
Shortly before 16:00, placidly, taking the deep leaving behind the Îles de la Petite-Terre, with the view that stretches before us on Grande-Terre and Guadeloupe whole, left the island of Marie-Galante and right La Désirade under the keel, then, flowing waters of the Atlantic and on the head we have the crystalline sky Caribbean. The wave, among other things, was significantly weakened compared to the morning and is a real pleasure to sail in silence for two hours that separate us from the port of St. François, where we arrive, with the warm light of sunset, around the 18:00.
Calmly return to Marifa and later go out for dinner at the restaurant of the Baobab Toubana, close to St. Anne, where we eat fish and lobster, thus, fittingly, the end to another beautiful day.

After two full days at sea, with excursions to the Caret all'Îlet Îles de la Petite-Terre, we decide to dedicate a completely to the ground, and when it comes to land, as the highest expression of this element in Guadeloupe is speaks, of course, Basse-Terre, is dominated by the silhouette of La Soufrière volcano, which is still considered active.
Shortly after 8:00 we leave the Marifa reached and Pointe-à-Pitre, half an hour later, usually crossing the bridge over the Rivière Sale, putting back foot (or wheel) on the island of Basse-Terre. We therefore already know the Route de la Traversée sea and arrive at approximately two thirds of the west coast, beginning to follow the coastal road to the south.
Beyond the location of Malendure, faced with the Ilet Pigeon and arrive after an infinite number of curves, in the village of Vieux-Habitants, where the small Musée du Café, but we decide not to visit. We shall further and, in short, we reach the town of Basse-Terre, the capital of the island as well as administrative capital of Guadeloupe, despite the less than one third of the inhabitants of Pointe-à-Pitre.
But even here there is nothing interesting to visit and we have already made several kilometers, so Frederick is beginning to give signs of restlessness. Fortunately, in its stead by Basse - Terre are starting to climb towards the summit of La Soufrière volcano, the highest mountain island with its 1457 meters ... and the little we see now more attentive and interested.
The road, with inclines at times absurd, climbs the side of the mountain through stretches of rain forest and ending in the parking lot called à La Savane Mulet, at 1142 meters. From there you should see, in all its grandeur, the terminal part of the volcano which, as often happens, is hidden by clouds. Is also quite cold, so we cover briefly before starting to climb along the trail in a little over an hour leads to the summit.
The terrain is very rugged and the landscape, sometimes in the sun and stretches between the clouds, filled as it is, often, to the unpleasant sulfur seems almost unreal and Dante.
We walk, uphill, up to about half-way point, then we decide to go: Richard really wants to continue and reach the top, but there appears to be the case because higher ends are completely inside the clouds in the afternoon and we expect at least one 'other foot.
We reverse the path and go back to the car park, then descend to sea level up to Basse-Terre, finding a temperature Caribbean. From there we continue to follow the coastal road, which, shortly afterwards, double the southernmost point of Guadeloupe.
Heading north we stop for lunch on the beach of Grande-Anse: the mare, especially agitated here, it's not nice, but the beach, all sandy as pitch black and flanked by large palm trees, is truly special, with that the silhouette of the nearby islands of Les Saintes to characterize the skyline. Ago when very hot, just before 14:00, take the road and walk the few miles that separate us from the village of Trois-Rivieres, where the Parc des Roches Archéologique gravées established to safeguard the rocks on which are engraved some petroglyphs made by the Arawaks Indians, ancient inhabitants of the island. But today, the first of May, celebrates the workers to Guadeloupe and the park is closed ... pity I do not think we will have even the opportunity to return before the end of the journey.
We continue to follow the coastline northward, until, near the town of Saint Sauveur, deviamo left and go back to climb in the direction of the volcano, while the gas starts to run low and turns on the light of the reserve (nothing serious if we had not already met with several dealers closed because of that holiday).
Let's go back under the clouds before reaching the parking lot where the road ends, but no rain, so we can deal with complete peace of the path through the thick tropical forest, comes in about half an hour, the second of the three cascades of Chutes du Carbet The easiest to reach and, perhaps, the most spectacular, with its one hundred and ten meters high.
Remain for a while 'to keep it from below, jumping from one rock to another between rigagnoli water (some of which are hot!) Running around at its base, then we follow the path, the path of return, it's all up: there are over three hundred steps to be addressed and it is a real relief at the end be able to comfortably sit in a car. E 'tutta in descent, however, the road back on the coast and so we save a lot of fuel, while we begin to compensate through an area with banana as the eye can see.
Just before the town of Capesterre-Belle-Eau, walk the scenic stretch of road nicknamed Allée Duman, flanked by two rows of towering royal palms and elegant, then finally find a distributor so open, after a providential filling, we can pull a beautiful breath of relief.
Now it's too late to achieve a good beach (the rest was expected that today we would not have gone to the sea) but is also soon to return to base, so we stop for a brief visit to the Parc Floral Valombreuse: a botanical garden, to tell the truth rather untidy but has given us the opportunity to see (free) a nice hummingbird.
17:30 leave the park and shipped shortly after traveling on the highway that runs in the direction of Pointe-à-Pitre. We have the impression that they are returning from an expedition, because it was a busy day and, at times, tiring, but it was worth living in many ways (sin only for petroglyphs) ... and on balance, given the characteristics of the area were good even the weather.
After walking 220 kilometers to Guadeloupe, a few minutes after 18:00, we arrive at Marifa. Let's take a shower and then go out for dinner at the pizzeria Rome des Îles, in Marina of Pointe-à-Pitre, and then, tired but happy, we return in the room to enjoy a deserved rest.

There are still two days to go to Guadeloupe, two days that we would spend almost completely to its beautiful sea. So we get up with the in-tention to go all'Îlet du Gosier, a piece of land located a few hundred meters off the south coast of Grande-Terre. But just spend the time necessary to breakfast, the sky is almost completely covered with clouds. Soffia the ALISEO and, in theory, the weather should not deteriorate further, despite what we believe-it is not appropriate to spend the entire day on a small island and reverse the current program with planned for tomorrow.
Thus aiming towards the east, relying on the fact that, at any time of day when the clouds were to decide to open up, they will probably just starting from that point cardinal.
Along the way we would stop at St. Anne to visit a craft market, but the shops that comprise it are still largely closed, then we continue to grind km and reach St. François, from where the road then turn that, in short, leads us to Pointe des Châteaux, the easternmost point of Guadeloupe.
Park your car where the tape ends of asphalt or on foot, are going to go up the rocky promontory that lies before us, on which stands a huge cross, while, as expected, comes out overbearingly the sun.
We climb down the 145 steps that lead to vantage point from which the view sweeps over two seas: the right to the Atlantic Ocean and left the Caribbean Sea, faced with the unmistakable silhouette of La Désirade. We enjoy the show then descend with the intention of going, this time at sea, because, fortunately, the sky shows more and more open spaces to clear.
Let's go to the nearby Anse calibrated, which is located on the northern side of the headland and can be reached first through an unpaved road and then walking for several minutes along a path among the vegetation.
The beach, the sand and beautiful water, it is the undisputed kingdom of the Nudist Guadeloupe whose presence, of course, there are disturbing ... the thing which is considerably c'infastidisce know to give them discomfort, especially when intending to make a resumption of the place with the camera being stopped by an incredible gentleman and great fun ... at least since her genitals penzolanti!
The beach is a marvel, and is also well protected, too: the water is fine but there is no wind outside and the temperature was almost unbearable, so, after a brief exploration dive, have lunch and then went ce elsewhere.
Dripping sweat, walk a few hundred meters, perhaps a mile, then turn towards the sea, on the same side of the promontory, reaching Anse à la gourd: less scenic Anse calibrated, but with the same crystal clear water, without nudists and, above all, beaten by a pleasant breeze. And 'the place we were looking for: camp there, take a long bath and then cooling stand with light to enjoy the warm Caribbean sun, until, around 18:00, while passing along the beach a typical wagon pulled by oxen while approaching the hour of sunset, we move unhurriedly towards the hotel.
Before getting to Marifa we stop also in the artisan market of St. Anne (which this time is closing its doors) and buy a couple of shirts, then later, after having to be accommodated, leave for dinner and we go, again Marina at Pointe-à-Pitre, the place we like and it is a pity not to have discovered before.
Among the various restaurants along the quay of the port this evening choose Le Sextant, where good eating fish and lobster, before accompanying Federico, tired, in bed and do another (yet another) good day.

At the sound of the alarm clock I get up to diverge tents: even today, the last day that we move to Guadeloupe, a beautiful sun shines and there is a strong probability that it will do so until the evening ... Not bad: twelve days of sunshine and only two hours of clouds (yesterday morning) ... We can cry out to heaven our entire satisfaction and at the same time thank him for such leniency.
We stand up with a little 'more calm than usual, and go to breakfast when they are already past 7:30. Nothing serious because today we must take very little way, ie the ten kilometers or so that separate us from the town of Gosier.
Expect the small pier near the said town, from where, just before 9:00, kicks off the boat that allows you to get all'Îlet du Gosier, a sliver of land located just six hundred meters from the coast. Within minutes of calling so navigation on a small tropical island, perhaps a little 'overloaded, because it is located very close to the tourist area of Guadeloupe, and perhaps even too well kept, given its reputation, but still nice .
We placed in the shade of a Scilla when the place is still, practically, the desert and now we run into the water to enjoy the beautiful sea (a few hundred meters off the coast there is also a good barrier reef).
Around 10:00, however, comes on the King Papirus, the boat that we have all'Îlet Caret today probably rented from a nightclub (the NRJ), whose name is completely covered. It 'full of local young people who have every intention to celebrate ... and when descending on the beach bring an end to peace which up to that time reigned supreme.
Lunch and consume the last of the four coconuts that we found in the past few days, then, around 15:00, leaving the Ilet mo du Gosier.
Heading in the car before arriving at St. Anne, because we want to conclude the visit to Guadeloupe where we started twelve days ago ... at Plage de la Caravelle.
Slip away, pleasantly, the last hours of this trip: take a bath and then I build a beloved bracelets, and here comes the "maestro" of this art when I see it is a compliment, then the sun goes down magisterially among the palms and goes to close, in practice, the curtain on vacation. A holiday that, instead, we want to enjoy all the way to dinner and eat shark steak and lobster at the restaurant La Rose des Vents, the pretty Marina Pointe-à-Pitre, then we go into a room to sleep: tomorrow morning we expect bags to be done, the car to be delivered and that everything that follows ... because Italy, our cross and delight, there is waiting with open arms.

The alarm sounds at the same time the other morning: not that there is something special to do, but there is enough time just because we leave in the early afternoon, but there are many small things to do and we would like to remain un po 'di time spent on the edges of the pool.
After breakfast, more for curiosity than for others, we look at the Plage de Petite Havre, the closest to Marifa ... nothing exceptional, especially when compared to what we have seen so far. Start immediately and, after a small but necessary expenditure, leaving Sabrina to Marifa, while Federico and I go to the Sixt of Bas-du-Fort to deliver the car.
E 'Sunday and all are closed, so the phone to headquarters for instructions, but the proposal to bring the car to the agency that is located at the airport I object strongly, and we agree to leave the keys at reception. There is only one small detail: the car is already in reserve for some 'time and we have no intention of putting other gasoline, so we follow the ten kilometers divide us from Marifa barely touching the accelerator pedal . In the end though, with relief, park your car and deliver the keys (to Guadeloupe, we walked the beauty of 1250 kilometers).
Ne advantage to pay the bill (which is the only tax) and then go up in a room by Sabrina, who has since done to fix the first suitcase. Instead complete a second later because now we want to go in the pool to make some bath and enjoy the last warm rays of sun Caribbean.
A little more than two hours pass quickly and in men 'who do not say is noon, so go up again in the room: lunch, take a shower, we close all the luggage and a few minutes before 14:00 we are already in "clothes civilians ", comfortably seated in the reception waiting for the bus that will accompany us to the airport.
We deliver the keys of the room and time, one quarter of an hour later comes the means by which, even before the 15:00, we are presenting in the departure lounge of the international airport of Guadeloupe.
Face a long queue to take the luggage, but is not a problem because we have to instil especially deceive the missing time off. Then, to pass the check-in, there are also completely empty the bag to check their content and, with patience, we must ricomporlo before arriving finally in the waiting room.
There remains just the right time to enjoy an ice cream, then the speaker announces the boarding of our flight from the door number three.
The operations necessary to properly accommodate all passengers inside the giant Boeing 747 of Air France are, as usual, quite heavy but in the end, slightly late, at 17:30, flight 621 Af takes direct proportion to Paris ... Guadeloupe goodbye!
In brief climb above the clouds and we are behind the Caribbean, then bringing the clock forward six hours, just as quickly comes ...

Midnight has just passed and the sun still shines, even had a North Cape ... but, of course, ours is a virtual midnight. A real one, however, we are meeting and running, you too, occurs quickly, with a beautiful star and a tiny piece of the moon.
The journey is great, but hours pass slowly until, through the window, we see the first light of dawn on Europe.
E 'un alba characterized by so many clouds that thins out only for a moment, leaving us a glimpse of the French coast, then descend in altitude and plunge us in them, emerging only a few hundred meters above the ground, in sight at Orly, which landed without problems at 7:22.
You can not just say that in Paris there is good weather because it rains when we leave the airport and thirty degrees of Guadeloupe are just a distant memory.
We transfer by bus from Orly to Charles de Gaulle and spend almost an hour, the double journey: in that case was Monday, but on Easter Monday (public holiday then) and traffic conditions were entirely different.
Once arrived at the capital's main French embark luggage and face a long queue to pass through the metal detector, after which the security un'addetta calls to open the backpack of Frederick extracting, from the inside, the " deadly "boomerang plastic, it seems, is considered a dangerous object ... It 'simply absurd, because it's only a toy! ... But the head of security does not give permission to do so we must go and leave it (in fact, has already passed without problems, the other three times this trip). We do ten steps and, of course, puts a little cry, then I take him by the hand and back with him to seek the return of stolen goods, but there's nothing to do: we must necessarily abandon!
We put ourselves in a row to climb from the port number 72, on flight 365 and Az meanwhile arrives officer safety, probably devoured by guilt, and the boomerang returns to Frederick ... E 'was an incredible story ... finished good, but absolutely to tell!
Delayed by almost an hour at 11:30, the MD-80 Alitalia stands out the flight to Bologna, while continuing to rage the adverse weather conditions and France is practically under a single body Cloudy.
Sabrina and Richard almost immediately yield to the temptation to take a nap then, later, lunch. Meanwhile, below us, finally, we see the earth: the snowy Alps and shortly after, this is Italy completely free of clouds.
The plane begins to descend slowly to share and touch the ground, at Marconi in Bologna, at 13:00 sharp. Safely collect your luggage and then we are off to embrace the grandparents.
Immediately we start to Forli, and, most of the chatting and less about the holiday, go to 13:45 on the motorway, leave at Faenza, at 14:20, after a short queue for work in progress, therefore, less than twenty minutes Later, at 14:39, we are at the gate of the house to put the word end to another fantastic trip.
We have "caught" another quell'immaginaria of pearl necklace of islands that frames the east of the Caribbean Sea ... many still remain, but so is also our desire to travel and who knows, maybe one day we can say that I have ideally achieved, in full, that area treasure.