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English Harbor, Isla Perla When my boss said he needed an article written for an island getaway called Isla Perla, I was not very happy. You've seen one island, you've seen them all. How wrong I was. Isla Perla is situated in the Lesser Antilles, southeast of Puerto Rico. English Harbor is Isla Perla's largest city. It has an airport that accommodates aircraft as large as a Boeing 737. And, although big cruise ships often make English Harbor their port-of-call, the island is unspoiled by Club Med resorts or gambling casinos. You won't find any big-name hotels here either. No Hiltons, Westins, or Sheratons. What you will find are small quaint hotels with all the comforts of home. The Caribbean water that surrounds Isla Perla is among the bluest I've ever seen. For snorklers, there are coral reefs with an abundance of colorful sea life. But if you've a mind to go parasailing, you won't find it here. The beaches are white sand, and the island is filled with lush tropical vegetation. Island life is slow-paced. For those that want to really get away from the hustle and bustle of high-tech civilization, this is the place. The people are friendly and ready and willing to please. But the best part of it all is that Isla Perla, although a territory of the United States, is totally independent, and it's currency is the dollar! And a side note here, while in Isla Perla. I heard rumors of a small town at the Southern End of the isle. A town where is said to live, a small band, or brethern if you will, of the high seas. Remarkably, these so-called brethern all resemble one another, despite not being blood related. I should add that the town's inhabitants are rather superstitious, and some follow the old religion of Obeah. I didn't have the time to venture to the southern end of Isla Perla, but I must admit, my curiosity has been peaked. Let's hope my editor decides this rumor warrants a return trip! I've got my fingers crossed, and my bags packed. |