It is pleasing to ones eye to see…
This Island where Christopher Columbus came in 1493.

The Dutch Indies Company established a trading post here in 1667
And it soon became a pirates heaven.

The Danes colonized this island in 1666
And established a slave enterprise that made them very rich.

After WWI the Virgin Islands were sold
To the USA for 25 million in gold.

What a deal…
For $300 per acre… a real steal.

I was here in 1976, 1999 and the last time ten years ago in 2004
But little seems familiar from before.

In the shops the locals no longer seem in control
As people from India seem to own them all.

But millions arrive here each year for a vacation
To enjoy the beautiful beaches or tour a sugar plantation.

I also think…
This was the birthplace of the banana daiquiri drink.

And while here you somewhere hear soon…
Their favorite calypso tune.

People appear to live here comfortable and free
Their first phone book they did not print until 2003.

It is hard to imagine… In this “God’s creation”
They have a history of devastation.

Each time the Island is restored but never again looks the same…
After an earthquake, cholera epidemic or hurricane.

But it remains an idyllic place
And as memory I bought three tablecloths of lace.

We left at 5 pm and enjoyed the view from our balcony
And wondered if we would ever again see this city Charlotte Amelie