Our first walk took us to the "Queens Staircase". It's 65 steps that you can see in the background and is a major landmark. The steps lead up to a fort that protected the water's inlet to the city. These steps were hewn out of solid limestone rock by slaves between 1793 and 1794 and were later named in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned in Britain for 64 years from 1837 to 1901.
Interestingly, Columbus first landed here in 1492, so there are statues of him in the city. However, it became a British colony in 1718 when the British clamped down on piracy. The Bahamas gained independence in 1973, but their British heritage can still be seen with portraits of Queen Elizabeth II in several buildings.
Sugarcane is abundant here, and so is rum. Our walk on the island took us unexpectedly to a chocolate factory where they had rum shots in an edible chocolate shot cup. The price was $8 for one, or 2 for $10, so we decided to get two. Our 20 year-old son didn't hesitate to step in. Following this, we found a rum factory that gave free tours (and samples). Yep, we decided to do that, too.
Having our fill of rum, we decided to relax on the beach. The younger two played in the sand and water while the oldest one took a nap.
When we drank up all the water we had packed, we sent our son to buy some rum punch. Cheers!
No island trip would be complete without a fresh coconut. The magnesium and fiber would be good for us.
The little one wanted her picture with the cocount by the blue water. Eric stepped in and had to show off.
Back on the ship, it was dinner time. We were eating later and later as we fell victim to island time. At 8pm, we were just beginning our 3-course meal. This is why I gain so much weight on cruises!
