Georgetown Exuma

Georgetown is located at the end of the Exuma Chain.  There is a huge harbor and about 400 boats anchor here.   There are a lot of things to do; some say it is like camp for retirees.  As always there are some people who just need to organize, order and make rules.  But I like it here for a while.  Lots is available and we can get involved or not as we choose.  Life moves easily .  The things that need everyday organization, water, groceries and trash disposal are easily available.  Only internet gave us a challenge. Sounds so mundane but trash disposal becomes a big deal in the heat!  We carry water to the boat in 6 gallon jugs.  Here water is free  but a pain to lug.  In many places it is 50 cents a gallon.  The lugging as much as the price teaches us to conserve.   As in so many places there are busy beaches and beach bars as well as places that few boats or people seem to find. I am surprised at how many hidden places exist is this very busy harbor.   The Exuma music festival, held here,  is quite a celebration.   Local music like rake and scrape figures prominently but there were a few acts that make the resort circuit. All were Bahamian .  There was a distinctly carnival flavor some great music; some not so great but all fun.  The Bahamians love to party late with music until very early in the morning  and fireworks around 2:30am .  Junkanoo was featured in the middle and at the end of the celebration.  Junkanoo is a Bahamian festivity  that reminds me of the MardiGras parade  with a Bahamian beat and  island flavor. It is small compared to MardiGras and Carnival but it is celebrated with big enthusiasm and pride.  It is celebrated at New Years, at Christmas time , during Independence Day festivities and a few other times of the year .  It was a loud but very wonderful part of the festival.  Dancers lead with fabulously costumed marchers and horn players following Then come rows and rows of big drums,some home made from 55 gallon drums,  more horns and whistles and finally anyone who wants to join just to celebrate. The beat booms big and strong and a bit wild.  This is the third or fourth time we've had a chance to participate It  does not loose it's impact.  As I look at these pictures I am thinking another day another beautiful beach, sunset, full moon.  It is astonishing.     We're turning our thoughts toward home but not too soon.