Sadly, my trip to St. Croix was winding down but there was one more item on the "Must Do" list. My brother-in-law told me to find a place with great conch chowder. I got a recommendation from our hotel and off I went to try it. I was not familiar with conch but Danny made a pretty mean conch chowder when he and my sister still lived in the Fort Lauderdale area — so I consider his recommendation very highly.

Just look at all the conch shells lining the driveway and walkways at the restaurant — I took that as a good sign that other people also rate their conch dishes highly. And the chowder did not disappoint — it was excellent.

After my meal, I strolled around the grounds enjoying the vegetation and the views. Loved this one.

In the foreground, the beach looked pretty rugged. Beyond that, there was a small protected beach that looked a bit more inviting.

When I got back to town, the Community was conducting a holiday parade — those not participating were watching. Me too.

Here we see this year's holiday King and Queen enjoying the festivities from their carriage.

More holiday royalty, with the princess and her ladies-in-waiting. How cool was that?

The sun dipped below the ocean and I had to try my hand at a few nighttime photos. Here we see the Hotel on the Cay across the bay. Charming.

And here the dining room at my hotel, Club Comanche.

And last, but certainly not least was a workshop with a light illuminating the entrance. Time to pack and prepare for my return flight the next day.