There are signs scattered throughout the city warning tourists to be patient with the pace at which business is conducted. North Americans in particular are used to general-motors fast assembly-line customer service. We want it done yesterday. But island time, no matter where on earth, marches to a different beat.
Especially in the heat, we all need some respite under a roof or a tree. No need to hurry. We'll burn to a crisp in that sun outside. Take it easy. How about we just find a place to have a cold one?
Later, we'll find history in the corner of a quaint street.
We sit ourselves. The barmaid has seen us. She’s dancing and enjoying an animated discussion with patrons and coworkers. She has waited centuries in this cerulean sea.
Across from us, a lady in a long dress and her smartly capped male companion shake shoulders to the music that reverberates throughout the establishment. She raises her bottle of beer and drinks. Time does not exist in their orbit. The man gets up and steps out for a moment. She stays back in her cocoon, then in cool movie-star pose, lowers her Hollywood shades, raises the bottle of beer, and drinks. Her companion returns a little while later, and together they bounce smoothly to the cool vibrant beat. The rhythm of tropical tantra.
Outside, the afternoon sun is relentless. I read the menu and check out the scene on the street where nothing in particular is happening. Nice. It's time to space out and let the imagination run wild. Perhaps many centuries ago, horse-drawn carriages moved up and down the street accompanied by the sound of hoofs and flickering lanterns. This was the edge of the known world at one point.
I like the way the building is designed with the window facing the street so the open air cools the interior and one gets a greater sense of presence in the antique neighbourhood.
Out of nowhere, a grackle perches on the back of the chair, looks around for treats but leaves empty handed... in a manner of speaking.
The grackle is one of my favourite birds. Such cleverness and mischief!The music is catchy, and its beat is kinesthetic bliss. The crowd is loud and having a good time. Sit back and relax, I have to remind myself. Look at this centuries-old city and hear the voices of the past without preconceived notions of history. The early beginnings in America. A continental strange attractor pulling on inhabitants of the old world. The cobbled streets are there. The arches and balconies. The sun is there. The forms and colonial shadows. All the ancient faces.
Here comes the barmaid with her bright smile and joyful eyes. She comes dancing with youthful carefree bounciness asking how she can be of service in a melodious Spanish accent. She reminds me of a fantasy character with her fluffy hair and sassy attire.
In her face, the day is long. The sun is bright on those ruddy cheeks. We must enjoy the day and never cease. Don’t let them tell you that your life must tick to a clock. Make of it what you will, so what will it be this time around?
Lovely memories and nachos, por favor.
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Rhythm, warmth and relaxation in a pleasant place. Not bad!
It was a great ambience and a fun way to spend an afternoon.
I'm glad you had a great time!