WE CAN HELP: GRAND CASE, ST MARTIN

Yesterday I mentioned a way to help rebuild a small but important business on the island of Anguilla which had been utterly destroyed by Hurricane Irma.

How about helping an entire town?

Grand Case, a town just across the straights from Nat's Place, was considered to be the Culinary Hub of the Caribbean. A dozen excellent restaurants loaned the beach, with stunning views and spectacular food.

They are gone if not badly damaged. Hundreds of lives disrupted without any hope.

We can make a difference.

Please take a read and spread the word on this desperate need for help. And if possible, send a few dollar, euros or pounds their way.

HELP US REBUILD ST MARTIN

Below are shots of Grand Case as it was before the hurricane.

WE CAN HELP: NAT'S PLACE, ANGUILLA

One of our most wonderful culinary discoveries - ever - was Nat's Place in Palm Grove, island of Anguilla in the Caribbean. Excellent food amidst isolation and beauty. 

Resting on the beach on the eastern end of the island, Nat's was casual but delicious food, and one of the most peaceful spots on the planet. A true getaway.

Sadly, word came a month or so ago that Nat's Place had been utterly destroyed by Hurricane Irma.

As part of our "WE CAN HELP" week we want to start with the GoFundMe page for Nat's Place.

Contribute what you can, and add this little heaven to your Life List.

Help the happiness return to Palm Grove Bar & Grill by donating to any one of our pages. #HurricaneIrma

https://www.youcaring.com/theonhodge-951874

www.gofundme.com/rebuild-palm-grove-restaurant

ITALY WEEK - MONTEPULCIANO

Our final destination in this weeklong celebration of Italy takes us to the charming 

and historic hilltop town of Montepulciano. 

It is an ancient town, with roots dating back to the days of the Roman Empire itself. The town is built upon a hill rising nearly two thousand feet above sea level, which affords it a commanding view of the nearby countryside, as well as a more defensible position in the event of attempted invasion.

The history is palpable as you walk the main street. Park in the 

visitor's center below and get the tour bus up. No personal cars are allowed in the town square. 

Start at the top and work your way down the hill. 

The 500 year old church in the main square is a simple but impressive structure. As you wander back down the hill on foot, shops, cafes and other attractions dot the street. You'll want to sample the food and wine, shop for pottery and remembrances, and soak up the historic surroundings. 

(Wear good walking shoes.) 

As a culinary destination Montepulciano is a major source of cheeses, honey, pastas and, of course, the world-renowned Montepulciano wines. A tasting is mandatory for any visit.

ITALY WEEK: TAORMINA

Our weeklong trip to the historic "boot" of Italy continues with a step off the mainland and onto the massive island of Sicily. Taormina, to be specific. This wonderful and vibrant city sits high atop the coast, hugging the cliffside with spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the massive cone of Mount Etna.

During our visit Etna was in a restive but (fortunately) not explosive mood.

ITALY WEEK: POSITANO

Italy Week Continues with a visit to the wonderful seaside (and cliffside) city of Positano, along Italy's spectacular Amalfi Coast.