Rodrigues (and a bit of Cocos Keeling)

After Julies Newsletter 27 I will not try to improve on her excellent report of sailing at sea. Just some personal impressions and yes, the Indian Ocean is a boisterous one. Below a (badly) stiched photo of a double rainbow in the morning, straight ahead of us. A magical view.

The Oceania house, home of the family who owned the island and its inhabitants during more than two centuries. They did not belong to any country. They tried to hoist the Dutch flag but were prohibited that, then they sought to be annexed by Britain which after nearly a century was granted by queen Victoria. Queen Elisabeth later handed the islands over to Australia who bought out the family and later caused their bankruptcy. What a history!

Rodrigues was a big surprise; elegant African ladies walking as if dancing slowly, talking in the king's French. After the hustle and bustle of Asia you do not expect that any more. Rodrigues is compared to Mauritius poor. Low income for the population, many jobs are subsidised from Mauritius money. Infrastructure could be greatly improved; water is very scarce while in Mauritius, equally dry, water is in ample supply. Still the people are friendly and happy. No-one seems hungry or is begging, crime is practically non-existent.

Port Mathurin, a friendly place to be.

A nice walk around Rodrigues with many of the yachties.