Margarita Island, Vz

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Ted_D

Guest
This November we'll be on a deep south itinerary that includes the Venezuelan Margarita Island. We've
been to most of the major Caribbean islands previously, but this is a new one for us. Celebrity hasn't
even published excursions for it yet. I have done a Google search and learned a little, but would like
first hand information about it from anyone who has visited previously. What does one do there?

Ted
 
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sailboat

Guest
From the port to most of the excursions, plan on a fairly longish bus ride. The first time we visited we took the town tour, which was interesting, but the long bus ride has never been a favorite thing to do for us. The second time there, we did not book any tours. You will find within walking distance of the ship, outdoor vendors, a small cafe, and a "sort-of" beach where for a modest fee you can rent chairs and umbrellas or even get a seaside massage. The dock area looks commerical and the addition of the vendors and cafe has done a lot to improve first impressions and lend an air of festivity and welcome.

The beach compared to other Caribbean beaches is not "wonderful." The sand is a bit coarse and the water remains shallow for quite a long distance from shore--so you can wade a lot, but not swim much. I don't recall there being any wave action either. It's more like a tranquil lagoon. That said, people seemed to enjoy the beach. Tourism is relatively new to Margarita Island and (at least at the port) the residents are working hard to come up to speed. That means you won't have to deal with extra pushy vendors. The vendors offer good variety--clothes, costume jewelry, and fresh water pearls are among the offerings. Prices are fair, but a little good natured haggling is ok. We always try to see a place (even if there's a bus ride involved) if it's our first time there and you may wish to do the same.
 
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Ted_D

Guest
Sailboat,

Thanks for the information. All in all, sounds like a quick walk around the port and back onto the ship, unless Celebrity comes up with a general tour excursion. From what you've said, the beach and / or shopping are definitely out.

Ted
 
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belgique

Guest
Sailboat is absolutely right - the first time long bus ride is fine, but not a "must do".

The terminal shops are sufficient to get some local things - did find some great deals on fabulous coffee. Wish I had bought more! Any of the little shops in the terminal has it.

I think the island is adjusting slowly to the cruise ship visits and that's just fine - I love the islands where I DON'T see Diamonds International or Cardow and Margarita Island is a nice, safe, quiet place to enjoy the fine people.

Bon Voyage!
 
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sailboat

Guest
Hmmm previous poster I see that you are a fitness instructor. Do you know if Celebrity would allow a fitness program on board--like Jazzercise for example? My sister and her husband travel with a large group that does country line dancing and the ship let's them take over the stage and other areas when they are not scheduled for use by pax.
 
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vlnovak

Guest
WE were there two years ago and did a jeep trip that we took though the cruise line. It went to some nice sites and then to the beach. was about $80pp.
 
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majormoe

Guest
as i said in a previous post i had a whole red snapper cooked in garlic butter for only$10 and it was the best fresh fish ive had in any port.was in the yellow restautant just before the beach.we also enjoyed the beach and must say i really enjoyed this port
 
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Blackdog

Guest
[quote vlnovak]WE were there two years ago and did a jeep trip that we took though the cruise line. It went to some nice sites and then to the beach. was about $80pp. [/quote]


We were on margarita and really enjoyed our stay. We took an Island tour with Margarita_Tours. It was fun, we saw alot of the island. It was only $80.00 for the 3 of us. Here is there contact info;
http://www.freewebs.com/margarita_tours/
 
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