Fun on Exuma

Yesterday was another beautiful sunny day here in Emerald Bay marina. However, as noted before, the wind was roaring through here. So, we did what sensible boaters do- we rented a car and went exploring. We drove from one end of the island of Exuma to the other. We saw trees, mangroves, and beaches. But, the houses and settlements were few and far apart. 

We headed north first. It was interesting to see the terrain. We actually saw a farm of sorts. But, it looked rather overgrown. Heading back south, we drove on to Williams Town. The town has a school, and some homes interspersed with commercial places.  Mom's Bakery most resembles a large shed. 

But, the smells are heavenly. We did indulge in baked goods. And, for once, the prices seemed actually reasonable. In fact, the freshly made chocolate rum cake was only $6.50. That's less than the price of a commercially made boxed cake sold at the airport. Granted, it is the size of a small loaf pan. However, it was fresh out of the oven. And, our baker poked holes in it and ladled on fresh rum syrup with a liberal hand.

We walked next door to Santanna's Bar and Grill. It's not your usual place. 

The only building is the one in the center that houses the actual bar and cooking area. All seating is either out on the surrounding deck it right at the bar. 

As you might remember, the wind was really blowing. We chose to sit on the road side so that we were out of the wind. And, we had the most amazing lunch. According to the locals, this is the place to get grouper and lobster. They were not kidding. Terry reported that the grouper was delicious. Peggy had the fried shrimp. She said they were large, and they had a subtle flavor of coconut. Mike had the conch, and he reported that it was some of the best conch he's had. And the lobster? Well, I've never had fried lobster before. But, I would go back again for it! The lobster was tender and tasty in a light tempura-like batter.

After lunch, we headed back down the island. Mike actually found a vegetable stand along the side of the road. We stopped, and he bought 3 tomatoes and a green pepper- all for $1. Well, they really were tiny things. But, they came out of a real yard here in the Bahamas!

And then, we were off the George Town. George Town is the largest town, and it is just about the size of St. Michael's. And, it has the same boating town vibe. There are boats and bars and expensive souvenirs as wells as a few nice restaurants thrown in. In the center of town is a Straw Market - a place for locals to sell their wares. The woven straw goods are amazing- and often way above the price I could pay. However, it is a joy to see women's work valued so highly.