I'm an old SLR 35 mm film guy, and with digital cameras have gone from case-mounted nikon coolpix to Olympus Stylus 1030SW to Fujifilm Finepix XP now. Despite the fabulous photos other folks may be posting, you need to have realistic expectations about what you can achieve unless you are a real pro....

Its a bit of a walk since they're down the hill from the new circle, but although their lot is small, we've never had a problem in several years of parking. Gregg and Josephine are very good to their customers--us!

I've used a "ruggedized" Olympus Stylus 1030 SW for about three years now after using a Nikon Coolpix in a heavy scuba case. My particular Olympus is pocket-sized and is good to about 10 feet, and claims to handle drops onto concrete or freezing weather. I've found it excellent for surface...

I started this chat line about St Johnian "reserve," and I'm glad we got a healthy debate going because I'm hoping that the USVI tourist authority or other opinion leaders are lurking and maybe even taking note. Just to be clear, we love the USVI, and indeed decades ago my wife worked for ...

Although we live in one of the most self-important, rude cities in the country (DC,) I can think of no place in America where more locals are more hostile, officious, or unpleasant with visitors, from the local police to the ferry ticket sellers to most of the Starfish cashiers. As reflected by your...

A gorgeous Sunday in Washington, Dc, except for the poor soul with a Sebring convertible with a STJ sticker on the bumper getting put on a wrecker on Constitution Avenue around 15th NW just after noon. :cry: If we hadn't been in the Miata we would have given you a lift. Just think happy thoughts abo...

A few days ago they boarded up the Texaco station and have (slowly) started decommissioning the gas station. Up to you whether you want to hold your breath waiting for them to finish up. Rick&Leah

Try Ms Gladys in the shopping area of Charlotte Amelie. Restrooms are down the alley, but Ms Gladys sings and cooks! Rick&Leah

Folks, you don't need $200 masks, and you SURE don't need laser surgery! Divers Direct catalog has $30 masks with lens for $30 each (total $90 or so.) I've used them, mustasche and all, for five years. No leaks, no problems with my camera, great vision, even though in real life I use trifocals! Don'...

We found that with our cards they charge 3% fee to use the checks. If you're looking for a rebate or flight miles, it may not be worth it. On balance and given their wide choice of villas, we've stuck with Caribbean Villas and just write them personal checks. Rick&Leah

Several years ago the manager of Ti Kaye Resort on St. Lucia gave me the secret (dishwashing soap--not/not dishwasher soap like Cascade.) Tiny little bottle, just use a teeny amount on a fingertip and apply to the inside of the mask. Rinse, and swim. Works great for hours. I carry the little bottle ...