THE PEARL OF THE CARIBBEAN, ISLA MARGARITAOct 22 '01 (Updated May 09 '05) Write an essay on this topic.The Bottom Line So much to do in such a tiny place. Just off the coast of Venezuela lies Margarita Island or Isla Margarita. Margarita is the Greek word for pearl, and that is just what this place is. Often overlooked by North American and European tourists in favour of other sun spots, this place has just about everything one needs for a sun filled vacation. The small size of the island makes everything close at hand, and trust me everything one could want is here. First there are the beaches, the island is literally covered with them. From tiny little secluded inlets to the wide expanses of the world famous Playa El Agua on the north coast, there is something for every need. Lazing on the beach not your idea of a fun filled week, while then how about some wild night life? Porlamar, the largest city on the island abounds with fine dining and night clubs that seem to never close. Highly recommended is Mosquito Coast the largest and loudest place in town. It's run by a pair of expats, one American and one Canadian Shopping is that what you need to unwind? Well again this is the place to be. Margarita is a duty free zone. Bargains of all types can be found here, as the upscale elegant shops that line Porlamar's Fifth Avenue can certainly attest to. If they don't have what you're looking for then try one of the numerous handicraft stores, stall or flea markets all over the island. Leather goods, jewelry, and the islands specialty, hand made decorative hammocks, are all available Water sports abound here. Wind surfing on the north east coast at Playa El Agua is recommended for the pros amongst you. It's one of the best spots in the region. Diving ? there's dozens of off shore sites to keep you amused and occupied. For those you prefer to get their exercise on dry land, there is also golf, horse back riding and numerous other types of activities to be found here for those with energy to burn. For a more sedate time, there are tiny villages to explore both on the coast and nestled in the mountains of the interior. On the western side of the main part of the island is the picturesque fishing village of Juan Griego. There are plenty of tiny shops here for the bargain hunter. There are also plenty of little cafes to rest and recover after hunting for that perfect souvenir. The most spectacular sunsets on the whole island can be seen from the fort that overlooks this small town. Nestled into the interior of the island, far from the crowds of tourists and fun seekers is the island's capital La Asuncion. This tranquil place is easily reached from the resorts on the coast, but somehow seems a world away. The tree lined town square with it's statute of Simon Bolivar, the Liberator, is a great place for quiet reflection. Just north of the city of Porlamar, and not yet surrounded by the encroaching condos, resorts, and time shares is the sleepy village of Pamapatar. Here it is still possible to stroll the beach and chat with the fisherman as they repair their nets and gear. Afterwards you can sit at a quiet little cafe and watch the world go slowly by you. Isla Margarita has one other attraction as a tourist destination. it is extremely cheap. The once strong oil based Venezuelan economy has taken a bit of a pounding in the past decade. This makes a vacation package here quite reasonable. The numerous hotels offer just about every level of comfort and price range one could want. It's also convenient. Isla Margarita is about a six or seven hour flight from New York or Toronto, less from Miami. Trust me, like the elegant item it is named for, this place is a treasure to be enjoyed. More Articles on Venezuela How to use ATMs, Taxis, and Bordellos in Venezuela http://www.epinions.com/content_2171183236  |
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