Saturday May 23, 2009 (The first real day on the island)

Friday was filled with lots of travel, but today was another story. It was our first real foray out into town and nature as a group. The morning started with an intro to the area and “ground rules”, followed by lunch and a drive up Flagstaff hill (an old lookout for pirates back in the day trying to defend against the British).
On Flagstaff hill, we saw a number of birds (including the Mot-Mot, rufus-tailed jacama, and the oropondola for those of you who may be “birders”). We also had our first encounter with the cattle around here. The cows are often tied along the roadside, but most appeared to have broken free and congregated in the middle of the road. You either honk or get out of the car and move them along to pass. We also say banana trees laden with huge bunches of fruit, as well as huge mango trees and almond trees.
After our hike it was back to the cottages for free time. After a quick round of swimming and an encounter with “Andy the Fruit King” (he walks around the beach selling all sorts of fruits and likes to give high fives and laugh almost non-stop), most of the group headed into town to sample the local food. They have one tip when it comes to ordering food here. When you are asked if you want shrimp, chicken, or fish (no menu- just three meat options), choose what you want. When you are asked if you want rice or French fries with it- choose rice! Apparently, if you order French fries, you just get fried fish or chicken and the fries. If you say rice, you get the fish or chicken with a really good sauce, rice and like 8 other sides with it. Everyone agreed the local food was amazing.