Guest Report

[Muriel DesVignes]

6 of us spent 17 nights at Birdie's Nest, near the delightful village of Black Rock, and about 50 metres from the gorgeous shore close to the ancient black rock itself. The upstairs apt was where I stayed, and it was by far the nicest of all, with very large bedrooms and bathrooms, a huge living room and very well laid-out kitchen with everything needed to prepare our meals. The beauty was the patio on the front of the upsatirs apt. We prepared our meals and walked right out onto the patio to eat under the stars at night, or to watch the water churning and crashing below us in the a.m. Some days the breakers were just too strong and mighty for swimming ,and it could be very difficult getting back to shore, (Never go alone)but slightly to our right was a protected natural pool that was always safe and always great fun, thanks to the current that playfully jostled us along. We called it "bobbing" instead of swimming, but it was absolutely fabulous. Always sparkling clean thanks to the strong tides washing in and out. Our daily routine included walking the full length of the beach, right up to the exit into Plymouth, and twice we did go into Plymouth to do a little sight-seeing and shopping.(be prepared...lots of sunscreen , lip balm , and a bottle of water, plus a t-shirt or wrap in case you "dally" as we did, and the sun gets too hot before you get back.)
Prince was fantastic ,taking our husbands to Mt. Irvine to golf whenever they wanted, driving them to do some banking into Scarborough, and then extending their trips to nearby points of interest. He charged a very reasonable fee, and if he couldn't drive us he arranged for friends to do so. He also set up our friend's laptop so that she could correspond overseas daily.Advised us as to local bakery, small grocery, good restaurant (Seahorse Inn) etc.
Princess made us delicious fresh bread on a holiday w/e, and would have made additional baked gods had we required it. Just order ahead. They also have a washer, book ahead also.
A few draw backs......the debris in front of the villas just up the beach, but Prince has been promised this is being removed before Sir Elton John's arrival end of April.Often there was broken glass along the beach, and steel posts in unexpected places which could really do harm if not seen. My friend and I were constantly picking up broken bottles and shards of cuttlery when we went walking. It seemed especially bad the days immediately after Carnival .Also be aware : We enjoyed the locals next door, but some would perhaps not . It could be quite noisey some nights with 4 dogs barking intermittently and the roosters crowing all night every night. We got accustomed and those who did not, used earplugs, but most nights the roaring ocean overcame all else. I miss that sound so much back at home!

There is a gentleman who makes a habit of coming to Birdie's Nest every a.m. trying to sell dried up and deformed old coconuts ! We were told he "dresses down" and acts mentally challenged, but in truth has no money problems .And another man lured 5 of us into running up to Rex Turtlre Beach to see a turtle laying her eggs, then demanded money . He was very upset when we offered too little, and despite having given him boxed candy and other things, he kept insisting on more money. This was upsetting and embarrassing, and in hindsight, could have been dangerous. If anyone other than Prince offers to take you anywhere, or do you a big favour, be sure to ask immediately how much it's going to cost you and feel free to politely decline the offer. You will never get 2 taxi drivers who have the same rate, either, so ask the fee before you leave home.Several times we were asked to give "another $20.00" and were scrounging for the extra cash.
A minor inconvenience was the lack of steps down to the main beach. Sometimes there was debris like coral or broken cement in the sand, and one had to pick their way carefully up to the guest house and down to the water. This will be remedied, Prince said, as soon as a retaining wall gets constructed in front.
BAsically, this spot is ideal and very private. Rooms were very clean, but guests are to do their own basic housekeeping.(sweeping and dusting, clean your bath and toilet and sink.) Beds were fine, and patio furniture in good shape. It's the location right on the water that makes it HEAVEN, however. All of us agreed we would go again. Thanks Prince and Princess!