Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
I had worked long and hard for many years to get here, and there was a time and place
for everything. Besides, this was going to be my “people time.” At this stage of my life, I
wanted to surround myself with and indulge in people and their customs and friendships,
and I felt more able to be myself and join in social interaction with the obvious relaxation
of cigarette smoking.
“I can always quit when I want,” I justified to myself.
It was ironic to discover that the French government sponsored the cigarette industry for
Golouise and Gitano cigarettes in Martinique and to find that a local or a visitor could buy
a pack for a few francs. Several of the cruisers took this opportunity to load up their holds
with as many cartons as they could. I would befriend a cruising couple who bought a three-
year supply of these cheap cigarettes!
Herman had been hinting at traveling on to the United States and, in the course of a few
days, found a yacht that was headed to Florida. He was able to secure himself a position
as crew. Paula and I were truly sad to see our dear friend go. We hugged and wished him a
safe and happy voyage; we never saw Herman again.
However, Déjà vu was now ours to enjoy with more freedom. Gone were the days of having
to be constantly on guard with our discussions and lovemaking. There was more space
available, and Paula and I were a lot more comfortable.
It was soon apparent that the French sailors enjoyed nudity on their boats, and it became
quite normal for Paula and I to see neighbors going about their chores naked. Of course, I
was delighted to see some of the lovely, French girls proudly flaunting their wares in the
morning sunlight. I noticed also that there were perhaps some that would have looked bet-
ter covered up. The men too pranced about al naturale, much to the intrigue of Paula, al-
though she never readily admitted it, and she would reprimand me when my eye rested for
any length of time on the ripe breasts of our immediate neighbor. I joked with Paula and
dared her to do likewise and was always met with raised eyebrows and a “Why don't you?”
One evening I shocked Paula by appearing above deck, dressed in absolutely nothing but
a mischievous grin. “Oh my God, you are kidding!” she exclaimed. “Don't you feel, well,
naked?”
“A little, but hey! When in Rome! Besides, the boat is called Déjà vu and to anyone around
here, it would appear perfectly normal!”
I felt a little self-conscious at first but wanted to experience the “nudity thing.” After some
time I felt more at ease and started enjoying the freedom it offered. It felt refreshing not
having to wear anything around my nether regions, and I was quite convinced it was a lot
healthier.
