South Atlantic post

We sailed west from Africa to the first of two remote islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. The first island was Saint Helena which is a "protectorate" of the British Commonwealth and the last place of exile for Napoleon and the place of his death in 1821. We were pleasantly surprised by this port. Approaching the island it appeared craggy and desolate and the village of Jamestown where we anchored was extremely small. But we quickly discovered the island was full of beautiful mountain scenery as we toured inland and drove across the top of the volcano that had formed Saint Helena millions of years ago. We stopped at Longwood House where Napoleon lived out his days in exile and we also visited his first tomb, since his body was later moved to Paris. At Parliament House, the home of the Island Governor, we enjoyed seeing the giant tortoises that make this island their home. Tom thought about walking down Jacob's Ladder back into Jamestown until he looked down the 699 steps from above and he quickly changed his mind. Steve photographed Tom's initial descent of 15 steps and his climb back up the ladder before also deciding that riding in the van was probably the smarter way down the mountain - haha!

Our second island was Ascension, also a British protectorate, and the port city of Georgetown. Unfortunately the sea swells were high and, rather than risk injury to passengers or damage to the tenders which are also lifeboats, the Captain decided against attempting the landing and we instead circumnavigated the island and then departed for South America and our next port of Forteleza, Brazil which we will make in three days.

Disappointed- yes, but we respected the crew's decision to ensure our safety on this World Cruise which is beginning its final two weeks until we return to our new home in Florida. 

What an adventure this has been!!