Living and Working in Vieques..
Survival Tips
October is my least favorite month in Vieques, hot and sticky. But it has been
an interesting summer. While North Americans are obsessing about their election,
we are equally obsessed with our election for Mayor of Vieques. The way
campaigns are run here (full disclosure, I used to be a political consultant in
the States), long caravans of cars ramble through the island with loud speakers
blaring the name of the candidate. Events are held, usually tying up traffic,
sporadically. This year one of our newspapers has tried to profile the
candidates. It is not sophisticated, but it works.
We have had water and gas shortages on the island, and occasionally the electric
has gone out. Probably all will be fixed by the beginning of season, but if not,
well, bring a book for the gas line, fill your tub if you hear the water will be
shut off and have a flashlight always handy, even in your rental house.
The boom continues; season lasted through Labor Day. Houses and land have
appreciated and no doubt will appreciate even more. But, in my opinion, I dont
believe Vieques will ever become St Barts. There is a limit to what people will
pay for land and houses; we just havent quite reached it yet.
It is very busy here. That is different. Used to be one could count on summer
and early fall for leisurely beach time, no traffic and a generally restful few
months. Now, everyone seems to be working, traffic is fairly congested
(especially on the main street in Isabel Segunda).
There is certain anticipation, mixed with a dab of dread, about what the future
holds. Will Vieques be able to retain its character, its soul? Or will we slowly
turn into the monster that has befallen so many other islands? I dont think
anyone knows the answer.
Last month my dear friend and long time Vieques resident, George Klauber, died.
George was 81 when he died and at that age one can not reasonably be surprised.
But all of us who knew him were not only shocked, but heartbroken. George was a
man for the ages; we thought he would live forever.
If you are coming, or planning to come to Vieques this season, rest assured that
we are all eager to see you. There are wonderful restaurants here now, the
beaches are world-class, and the winter weather is perfection itself. Leave
behind your preconceived notions about what a vacation should be and experience
Vieques. Breathe it in, stay a few minutes longer in the ocean, truly feast on
the beauty of the island. It is your senses that will be engaged here, not your
intellect. And if you play bridge, give me a call.
Sheila
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Webmaster's Note * Sheila has many hats and is Co-owner of Crow's Nest Realty with Eli Belendez.
Sheila can be reached for a brochure through her web page at http://www.crowsnestrealty.com