. . . what's the line, something about "the times, they are a'changin'." I see it every trip to SBH, and I go often. The island isn't like "Colonial Williamsburg." It's a living, vibrant community . . . with local community and family goals and aspirations. My feeling is that some among us may choose not to continue to be part of the island visitor population as changes occur that we don't like . . . but, the local population is what determines its development.
I discreetly (I hope) express opinions to local folks, including well known opinion makers. Nonetheless, even with a substantial economic stake in the island, my toehold there is of little consequence compared to the importance of the roots of families whose ownership of land and other long-held interests -- economic & otherwise -- go back 400+ years.
Development of a new hotel in Flamands, thus, is -- in my opinion -- a local issue. Certainly one with respect to which each of us can comment. But, let's not lose sight of the fact that the "stake" of each of us in St. Barths is of small matter in comparison to the people who allow -- or can seek to block -- change in their neighborhoods and throughout the island.
I love St. Barths . . . its residents, climate, culture, vernacular architecture, beauty, serenity, humility, beaches, hills, and bad roads . . . and so much more that we, as visitors, have introduced to the island. Much as in life, however, I think that we're observers . . . when the time comes that any of us doesn't like it, then the right course is to strike out for another territory. Meanwhile -- and forgive any sense of lecturing -- it's not intended -- I seek to support local folks in their decision making.
On the other hand, I will say that I understand that Boca Loca really sucks . . . I tried to go there twice during my recent visit, but it was closed both times. Mercifully, I understand. It's a topic on which I feel able to competently express an opinion.
I discreetly (I hope) express opinions to local folks, including well known opinion makers. Nonetheless, even with a substantial economic stake in the island, my toehold there is of little consequence compared to the importance of the roots of families whose ownership of land and other long-held interests -- economic & otherwise -- go back 400+ years.
Development of a new hotel in Flamands, thus, is -- in my opinion -- a local issue. Certainly one with respect to which each of us can comment. But, let's not lose sight of the fact that the "stake" of each of us in St. Barths is of small matter in comparison to the people who allow -- or can seek to block -- change in their neighborhoods and throughout the island.
I love St. Barths . . . its residents, climate, culture, vernacular architecture, beauty, serenity, humility, beaches, hills, and bad roads . . . and so much more that we, as visitors, have introduced to the island. Much as in life, however, I think that we're observers . . . when the time comes that any of us doesn't like it, then the right course is to strike out for another territory. Meanwhile -- and forgive any sense of lecturing -- it's not intended -- I seek to support local folks in their decision making.
On the other hand, I will say that I understand that Boca Loca really sucks . . . I tried to go there twice during my recent visit, but it was closed both times. Mercifully, I understand. It's a topic on which I feel able to competently express an opinion.
