Thank God Nothing Much is Going On

It's true, not much goes on here of much consequence to those off island and that is a good thing. Life goes on much the same day after day and that is why I have had so little to write about. That is also why I chose this island. There are so many destinations in the Caribbean to chose from, but finding one that a solo woman renting her own little "home" can feel absolutely safe is not easy. I certainly chose the right island.

There are three islands here, as you know. ^uerto ^rico is called the bid island and then there are the two little sister islands of Vieques and Culebra, also known as the last S^anish virgins.

I chose Culebra because I had been forewarned that there was some crime on Vieques and I listened. Today's island email news is very disturbing.

Sent: Tuesday, February 7, 2012 11:33 AM
Subject: Re: New Protest on Vieques

Please be aware that the majority of the victims of violent crime in Vieques were born here. Newcomers and tourists are certainly effected as well. I hope that we can unite our efforts to provide safe communities for all.

Last week a 70 year old man was murdered in his home in Vieques. Marcos Antonio Felix Santiago was 70 years old. He was found dead in his home in Santa Maria due to multiple injuries to his head. The police are investigating this as a robbery-turned to murder. "Toño" was the father of Rosita who works as the only female employee/sailor on the ferry boat. May Toño rest in peace (he was buried on Saturday, February 4).

AND

Tue, Feb 7, 2012 at 10:48 AM,

I wanted to make you aware of a protest that will be taking place today on Vieques, at 12 Noon on the plaza in Isabel II. It is an impromptu protest resulting from events that have taken place here over the past week. It does not involve the poor ferry service here, but something that is much more dire. It is about something that could potentially cause harm to the reputation of Puerto Rico Tourism.

Last night a popular bar was robbed by 3 men with masks, guns and a harpoon. They stole over $1200. The worst part is that they shot an employee, who thankfully is recovering.

Last week one of the top restaurants on Vieques was robbed at the end of the night. Same situation, 3 men, masked with guns. Fortunately no one was hurt, and they did catch the robbers.

These two incidences are in addition to the many thefts and assaults that have been taking place on our beaches this past month. It is only a matter of time before a tourist dies at the hands of a thief. There was plenty of bad press when someone got bit by a shark in our Bio-Bay. imagine the coverage our piece of paradise will receive when someone dies at the hands of another?!

For that reason, there will be a protest at the mayor’s office today, and I thought you should know. It is time for our Alcadesa to make sure our police force is doing everything it can to protect the citizens and tourists of Vieques. The reputation of Puerto Rico as a tourist destination is at stake.