Living on an island Paradise means water on the horizon-in every direction. When one is new to the islands, it is a welcome change from land-lock, but stay awhile and you get rock fever: the urge to get off the few square miles of rock and find terra firma. After all, on an island, water dominates the view and the lifestyle.
On land, potable water is a precious commodity. Most new construction begins with a large water cistern that is built along with the foundation. Rainwater is directed into the cisterns, which hold several thousand gallons of water. The cistern water is difficult to access during power outages, but is often sufficient for daily needs. If you need more, you buy it. Trucks deliver water to replenish depleted cisterns. Stores sell containers of potable water. The water and power authority (WAPA) provides water to portions of the islands.
Water pollution is easy to spot when you live in the islands. Health officials warn against swimming after heavy downpours, since the runoff increases bacterial contamination in the bays. Ferries have regulations for littering-no plastic overboard, no aluminum within 500 feet of shore, and so on. Divers find man-made debris scattered on the ocean floor.
Trade and tourism are conducted over ocean routes. Cruise ships arrive daily, bringing vital trade to the area. Large barges with cargo containers transport vehicles, furniture and equipment. Ferries transport people between islands, while yachts, sailboats and catamarans entertain an exclusive clientele. Waterfront shopping and dining is popular on all islands.
One cannot go long without playing in the water. Snorkeling, diving and water sports keep both locals and visitors engaged in the magic of Paradise. Try your hand at deep sea fishing, along with the sport fishermen who compete for coveted marlin and sailfish. And after you are done playing, relax on the beach with some coconut water: 'tis good fo’ de back.
On land, potable water is a precious commodity. Most new construction begins with a large water cistern that is built along with the foundation. Rainwater is directed into the cisterns, which hold several thousand gallons of water. The cistern water is difficult to access during power outages, but is often sufficient for daily needs. If you need more, you buy it. Trucks deliver water to replenish depleted cisterns. Stores sell containers of potable water. The water and power authority (WAPA) provides water to portions of the islands.
Water pollution is easy to spot when you live in the islands. Health officials warn against swimming after heavy downpours, since the runoff increases bacterial contamination in the bays. Ferries have regulations for littering-no plastic overboard, no aluminum within 500 feet of shore, and so on. Divers find man-made debris scattered on the ocean floor.
Trade and tourism are conducted over ocean routes. Cruise ships arrive daily, bringing vital trade to the area. Large barges with cargo containers transport vehicles, furniture and equipment. Ferries transport people between islands, while yachts, sailboats and catamarans entertain an exclusive clientele. Waterfront shopping and dining is popular on all islands.
One cannot go long without playing in the water. Snorkeling, diving and water sports keep both locals and visitors engaged in the magic of Paradise. Try your hand at deep sea fishing, along with the sport fishermen who compete for coveted marlin and sailfish. And after you are done playing, relax on the beach with some coconut water: 'tis good fo’ de back.
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