Besides sand and surf, I like to dabble in a bit of bartering with beach vendors.  I do it to engage with locals and have some fun.  I don't seek to trade "up".  I aim to release an item that I don't really want and receiving an item I do. 

I was on a cruise which stopped for the day on Antigua.  In my beach bag, I tossed a new blouse from my closet which had the tags still attached.  I brought it on the cruise because of its packability, it was sleeveless and it was stylish and a quality...

“Can you cook me a meal that I will be finished eartng in 60 minute time?”

The reply was “Yes”. It was said with confidence and so i ordered the Caribbean char grilled lobster. I had to be on board my cruise ship in 90 minutes and it was a 10 minute walk. No outside food is permitted onboard - takeout was not an option.

As I waited I had the house special cocktail. I asked what made it mint green. “It’s a secret recipe, I can’t tell you.” I accepted the mystery as part of my...