From South Caicos- February 11, 2012

I've now been down here for around two weeks and still love it as much as the first day. The other folks at the school are great and all of the locals are incredibly kind and hospitable.

I'm living at a former hotel on South Caicos Island of the British West Indies while going to the School for Field Studies. We have an incredible view from our porch of the sun setting over the Atlantic. I never quite know how to explain where I am living so I thought I'd post a map for any one who is as geographically challenged as myself.

The island of South Caicos is only 8 sq. miles and has a population of around 1,200. The country of Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory meaning that the it has chosen to remain part of the British Empire and is still under its jurisdiction. That being said most things are still decidedly American. Everyone on the island uses US currency, the shops all have US goods, and the dress is very American. It's economy is dependent almost completely on the fisheries industry of conch and lobster which nearly all go to the States. The waters around it are still somewhat pristine compared to most countries but the affects of overfishing and bad practices are evident.

A couple of students managed to see a whale while diving today and eagle rays, barracuda, and octopus are fairly common. We have spent most of our time around sea grass beds, mangroves, and coral reefs. The fish life and invertebrates are phenomenal.

Here are a few photos from around the island. One of the cooler places we've explored is Ms. May's house. An abandoned house that was formerly owned by the the British Governor's wife. Be assured that I am doing some studying and school work as well! Take care.