September 04 Newsletter

I have always loved reggae, ska, and calypso music (listen to my forthcoming box set and you’ll hear the influences). In 1996 I went on my very first trip to the West Indies. I started off in Barbados, beginners Caribbean. It is difficult not to be seduced by the impact of the exotic sounds, smells and sights of these islands. For me, a Londoner it was like being in the Notting Hill Carnival with the sunshine turned on. And the breezes, oh the breezes…. We took a good look around Barbados and then were drawn further afield (or should I say, "asea") to the tiny spice island of Grenada. It was love at first sight. From the moment I arrived my mind was abuzz with plots and schemes trying to justify being able to stay and live in this wonderful place.

After many trips, daft escapades and wild goose chases we managed to find and buy our piece of heaven with the aid of the local wide-boy estate and land agent, John Albanie, an ex RAF officer, then a Reuter's man, and until very recently bachelor playboy of a certain age.

Finding our land (that’s me in the sea off our headland) took time during which we made so many friends on the island. Every one of them as wonderfully eccentric, warm and open as you could wish for. Grenada isn’t gilt edged and money grabbing like Barbados. It is lush and green. The people have a very simple philosophy of life, which includes a real pride in and love for their island and a personal autonomy that is somehow missing in the other islands. And how they loved Maurice Bishop. Everyone has a personal story to tell about him and the revolution. I am always uplifted in their company.

On September 7th, Hurricane Ivan visited the island, destroying everything in its path. The beautiful harbour of St George's was hit really badly as well as people's homes and the luxuriant tropical vegetation. It was difficult to get in touch as all communications were broken down. But somehow, after a few weeks they managed to get a news bulletin out to friends, reassuring those worried about relatives and informing us of the difficulties and what was needed to assist in the emergency. Even this was upbeat, announcing that a calypso had already been written of the event called,
"Ivan The Terrible!"

Crazy People: Just prior to all the devastation John finally managed to relinquish his single status to a woman who is either ignorant of his reputation, has the constitution of a saint, or is as crazy as him. It is rumoured that during his wedding ceremony, while the bride was not looking, he took out and waved a flag from his back pocket proclaiming "HELP!"

At the moment all the islanders are busily trying to put things together again. Another friend Julia Montgomery is putting her romantic beach hideaway hotel back in order. Like all people who choose to live here, she is very industrious and imaginative so I am sure it will be open again for business ASAP. Take a look at http://www.petitbacaye.com/ . Julia is an old friend from the Sixties, formerly the actress Fiona Richmond, still interesting and beautiful nowadays. Eve Taylor and Paul Raymonde (the naughty mags magnate) introduced us - can you imagine!

Luckily we have not built on the land yet so the hurricane has not affected us. We had lots of plans and designs for an inside/outside tree house and John, Julia and all our mates there have been pitching in with ideas but we have not carried them out yet as I have been completely distracted by France. Still it is something to look forward to in the future. I would really like to write about my Caribbean exploits…. One day… Till then I’ll just take tings easy.

 

If you are interested in more information about what is happening in Grenada after Ivan, or want to help, visit http://stormcarib.com/reports/2004/grenada_help.shtml 

 

PS I have just received a communication from Mr Albanie, who feels that the following description of him might have been more accurate: "I was privileged to have been introduced to John Edward Albanie, an icon and role model in the international real estate field, a man of unimpeachable integrity, immeasurable intellect and matchless good looks."

Undoubtedly, those of you who know John will be able to choose the best portrait. Dream on, John!