The final stretch
With our slot closed and no point in heading back home mid-week, we decided back last fall to book an additional villa. Within our budget, nothing on Flamands, done Pointe Milou (hate the afternoon heat), so landed on the Villa Bikini above Lorient. Yesterday, the villa rep managed to land an early arrival, so we pack up our belongings, including wine, ice and a single coffee filter (just in case) and followed him over to Lorient. Road was closed between St Jean and Lorient for the day, so took the scenic route (aren't they all?) and came in the back way. Ironically, all the construction is happening at the foot of the villa's driveway, so egress is less than ideal. Villa itself is a step up from the VDD, including a better equipped kitchen, although the waves are much further away.
Friends from the past several visits arrived yesterday, so we headed into Gustavia for a few rounds of rose and people watching with them at Le Select. Amazing how the relationships take on a larger part of our experiences here. Had an early pre-departure lunch of baguettes with whatever was left in the refrigerator at Flamands, so began to get a bit hungry. Haven't had a "Cheeseburger in Paradise" in six years, so gave the "Marius Special" a try (double burger with actual bacon, not lardons). Quite surprised and definitely hit the spot. So much better than last time. I'm a partial convert. Couple of hours fly by and it's time to part ways and check on the Jimny. Empty spot behind us so we move back, reset the clock and do a little shopping.
Back at the villa, decide we are a bit "restauranted out", so we need to cancel our Tamarin reservation. Wife is busy with her phone and mine is in airplane mode (lest I repeatedly incur the $10 international charge), I pick up the villa phone (
in yet another first) and dial the whole 05 90 ....... With several "desole's" they are understanding and thankful I took the time to call. Friends then call with an invitation for a few drinks at their villa across the water from us. Wonderful evening catching up and a few hours later I'm back here overlooking the twinkling lights of the Christopher drinking a ti punch from the Clement rhum and cane sugar graciously left by the previous guests. A notre sante.
A few photos (and a faster internet connection):