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The manchioneel tree is another item high up on the danger list. This beautiful shade tree is definitely one to stay away from. Milk from the freshly cut bark and raindrops from the leaves can cause serious blistering and burning. The beautiful, golden apple with its deceptively sweet taste is poisonous. Otherwise known as death apple--this one burns everything from the lips down to the esophagus. Antidote is large doses of evaporated milk. I know!!!
In the sea, the most dangerous things are the slowest moving ones. Sharks, stingrays, barracuda,etc are fast enough with enough sense to get out of Dodge at the first warning. Sea urchins and fire coral don’t. When snorkeling out on the reef: don’t try to catch anything with your hands. Stay buoyant and don’t trample the reef.
Street urchins are fortunately few and far between on Carriacou. They are not usually dangerous or threatening and in most cases are only in need of a dollar and a quarter for a shot of Jack and a cigarette.
You know, there is really nothing to do in Carriacou, but just in case you are inclined to stay busy while also trying to enjoy your vacation, we have left at your disposal some literature about the island and will mention here a few
ACTIVITIES:
BEACHES: There are a few within walking distance-- but most are more easily accessible by boat or car. In the Windward area, except for our postage stamp beach a boat is imperative and can take you to CRAIB-the shipwreck beach or MOPION. Arrangements can be made for drop-offs and pick-ups.
For those who are interested in off-roading in a rental jeep-- just follow the map and discover for yourselves. Excellent beaches further afield include:
Turtle Beach-- the large white sand beach in Petite Carenage (at the far end of Windward before Gun Point);
Anse la Roche which is accessible from the road in Prospect or about 20 minutes meander past Gun Point. Look for a large tree whose main branch is full of epiphytes (air plants) hanging high over the dirt road. On the bottom side of the road are several large stones marking the beginning of the trail down to some ruins, a fabulous overlook and then straight down to the beach;
Paradise Beach past town and the airport in the village of L'esterre, the name speaks for itself;
Sabazan, whose beautiful body-surfing beach is a good way past the old Dumfries Lime factory. These places are also accessible to those getting around by public transport so long as you don't mind hiking. Remember to take along some drinking water as you never know when your favorite rum shop will have the GAHN FISHEN' sign posted.
Or, if interested in snorkeling beyond our little reef just off shore-- guided tours are available. For a small fee we will take you on a boat ride out to the barrier reef where you can see angelfish, stingrays, lobsters and potato and brain corals in relatively protected water, followed by a quick trip to CRAIB-- our favorite beach-- and then a ride home thru the fishing fleet in Windward. The trip usually lasts about 2 hours and time is dependent on tide. Remember, if venturing off shore alone be advised that the current here is swift. Always start your swim upstream...