Fort-de-France, Martinique...

Out of nowhere this morning the skies opened when I was on Deck 14, and I made a mad dash for the Cabanas which offered little protection... Once the squall passed, I was able to get a great picture of the of us moving out from under it. I always enjoy the sail into Fort-de-France, it’s very scenic…  We got off the ship first thing and walked along the waterfront to Fort Saint-Louis. We retraced our steps from our last visit January 2, 2023, walking by the Savannah Park, Pre-Colombian Archaeological Museum, the Post Office and to the Schoelcher Library.  This library is an architectural icon of Fort-de-France, having been built in France then shipped piece by piece to Martinque. We circled the block to get a clear shot of the Calvaire Chapel that overlooks the city. From here, we made our way to St. Louis Cathedral. Digesting from our previous route we came upon the pedestrian shopping street.  Here, we found some interesting buildings and the local Covered Market. Of course, a port stop would not be complete without finding some street art. After we were back on the ship, Ann and Cathy decided to go ashore again to shop. While in the Retreat, I heard a barrage of noise…it was hundreds, if not thousands, of protesters filling the streets.  The protest, apparently, was over the French Government plans to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64. The rest of the day we spent the Retreat, and I continued snapping photos. It was a beautiful day in Martinique…  Today, also marked the day that Ann & Cathy became members of the President’s Club, having sailed 1400 days with Holland America Line.  The official induction ceremony will occur on our next voyage.  Congratulations!!!!