Lazy days on the island of Tortola — Paresser sur l’île de Tortola

April 6, 2010

tortola british virgin islands

“You wouldn’t be able to find the house in daytime,” Albert said after he greeted us at the airport. He was standing quietly next to the car that we had just finished to load with our luggage. “I”ll drive ahead,” he added in perfect English, but with a hint of what I assumed was the local accent. The plan was for him to drive ahead and take us to the house we had rented on the west side of Tortola, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands. I was glad he was here because it was already late in the afternoon. From experience, I remembered that the roads on islands could be fairly unpredictable.

“It’s a good thing that you rented a four wheel drive car,” Al, as we quickly called him, went on. He was now smiling. “Someone will meet you at the bottom of the hill and will show you the way up. I cannot get there with my truck. ”

“The hill?” I replied hesitantly, unsure I had heard properly.

What hill? I wondered.

“Wait until you see the view from the top. It’s just amazing.”

The drive from the airport to the house took a solid hour. We couldn’t see much around us since it was night time but as planned, Persia, the woman Al had told us about, was waiting for us by the side of the road.

“Here you are,” Al said after stepping out of his car. We exchanged quick goodbyes; we were keen to continue. As we started to drive slowly behind Persia’s car, I felt as if my heart stopped beating as we took the last turn into the driveway. Not only did I feel tired but now I was becoming worried. Even a bit scared. That turn…the hill…no one had told me about them. I had never seen a road that steep before.

But Al was right. From the top, the view was incomparable. Magnificent. All of a sudden, falling in love with that scary hill became almost natural. Whenever we sat on the patio to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, it felt as if we were on top of everything. Lulu, particularly, loved to point at the sailing boats in the distance, or watch pelicans fly close by. It felt as if we could touch at it all. That it was ours.

At least it was ours to enjoy.

We had one week to embrace Tortola and we arrived without big plans. In fact, the only priority we had was to rest and enjoy family times. Now that Lulu is in our lives, P. and I have obviously learned to travel differently–and right now, this is truly a welcoming change. One that allows us to follow our young girl’s pace.

It’s slow. And it’s every bit pleasing.

The house felt comfortable and easy–beside the fact that we quickly realized that it wasn’t designed for children whatsoever. I liked that it its layout made us feel we were outside when we were in. In the middle of the property, there was an inviting pool with long chairs, an area we naturally gravitated towards.

We decided that we wouldn’t be traveling big distances on the island. When we weren’t at the house–swimming or reading books by the windows while enjoying the view–we spent a few afternoons at the beach. On the way back, we visited local stores for groceries and to buy fresh fish.

One day, it’s parrot fish and doctor fish we found and decided to grill simply. I could not get over how beautiful, in particular, the parrot fish were. Another time, we came back with sand snappers in our bag.

Finding fresh produce was always hard, so when we managed to find locals selling their own produce by the side of the road, we grabbed the opportunity to stop and buy whatever they had.

This was how we were introduced to rose plums. And how we enjoyed delicious bananas.

Rose plums

Views of Tortola, West coast — Sand snappers

I had come prepared. I knew I would want to cook. And bake, no matter what.

“Did you bring these muffin cases?” P. asked one morning while pointing at the set of yellow silicone muffin molds carefully lined up on a baking tray, ready to be used. He had a perplexed look on his face that amused me.

Tu me connais, non ? is all I thought of answering. (You should know me by now, no?)

You never know what a place will be like, right?

chocolate zucchini muffins

sugar mill restaurant tortola

Lunch enjoyed one day at the Sugar Mill restaurant
Fish tacos and Conch fritters

Parrot fish

So with the few utensils I had packed, I managed to bake a few batches of muffins for our morning and afternoon snacks, and one night, I baked these bananas au gratin.

It was an idea that popped into my head spontaneously, I remember. We had limes, coconut milk, hazelnut flour (that I’d purposely packed, just in case). The rest followed naturally.

And so did the rest of our vacation. By looking at the scenery we woke up to and the one we went to bed with, you too might start to understand why I already miss the view.

Even perhaps the hill that managed to haunt my dreams on the first night.

Bananas au gratin

(For 4 people)

You need:

  • Butter, for molds and topping
  • 2 bananas, peeled and sliced finely
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/4 cup Demerara sugar + more for topping
  • 1/3 cup coconut milk
  • Zest of 1 lime, finely grated
  • 3 heaped tablespoons hazelnut flour

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 400 F. Butter four ramekins and divide the bananas between them; set aside.
  • In a bowl, beat together the egg, egg yolk and sugar until light. Add the coconut milk, lime zest and hazelnut flour. Divide this batter between the ramekins and top each with small pieces of butter. Sprinkle lightly with sugar. Bake the desserts for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden in color. Serve at room temperature or lukewarm.
Le coin français
Bananes au gratin

(Pour 4 personnes)

Ingrédients :

  • Beurre, pour les moules et les gratins
  • 2 bananes, pelées et coupées en tranches fines
  • 1 gros oeuf
  • 1 gros jaune d’oeuf
  • 50 g de sucre turbinado + pour saupoudrer
  • 70 ml de lait de coco non sucré
  • Zeste d’un citron vert, râpé finement
  • 3 càs bombées de poudre de noisettes

Etapes :

  • Préchauffez le four à 200 C. Beurrez quatre ramequins et répartissez-y les bananes; mettez de côté.
  • Dans une jatte, battez l’oeuf, le jaune d’oeuf avec le sucre jusqu’à ce que la préparation soit légère. Ajoutez ensuite le lait de coco, le zeste de citron vert et la poudre de noisettes. Répartissez entre les ramequins et ajoutez quelques noisettes de beurre. Saupoudrez de sucre et enfournez pendant environ 20 minutes, ou jusqu’à ce que le dessus des gratins soit doré. Servez à température ambiante, ou tiède.
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Tagged as: Dessert , Food & Travel , Fruit , Gluten Free , Life and Us
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144 Comments »

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  1. Your post was a pleasure and a treat to read.

    I’ve began saving …

    I need an address to get to this place.

    You need to share how we can get there.

    - Steve

    Comment by Steve — On April, 6th, 2010 at 8:53 pm

  2. My mother went to the Island of Tortola a few years ago and didn’t like it. She left the Island the same day. I have no idea what she was looking at cause it looks beautiful.

    Comment by Zara — On April, 6th, 2010 at 9:00 pm

  3. Wow ! Stunning pictures, Bea. J’aime particulièrement celle des 3 fenêtres, et celle de Lulu au balcon- comment résister ? J’avais adoré mon séjour aux BVI et tu as vraiment su capturer la beauté du lieu !

    Comment by Liza — On April, 6th, 2010 at 9:11 pm

  4. Amazing place, and you make it really your own, the pictures are so nice. I can’t believe you’ve packed muffin molds with you. I chuckled.

    Comment by Gosia — On April, 6th, 2010 at 9:51 pm

  5. A truly beautiful post, and what a lovely way of enjoying bananas. Thank you for sharing!

    Comment by Ash K — On April, 6th, 2010 at 9:54 pm

  6. What can I say. memories flooding back. Roadtown, Pussers, Quito’s Bar

    6 fantastic month.

    Your images are magnificent. A dream location.

    Comment by H.Peter — On April, 6th, 2010 at 9:55 pm

  7. Oh I adored this post – your photographs are amazing and I just want to go away on holidays! This put a smile on my face on an otherwise uneventful work day.

    Comment by Leah — On April, 6th, 2010 at 9:57 pm

  8. These photos are incredible! It looks like you had an amazing time!

    Comment by Kaitlin — On April, 6th, 2010 at 10:18 pm

  9. so funtastic pictures!
    cute baby and lovely fruits!

    Comment by YOYO love cooking — On April, 6th, 2010 at 11:06 pm

  10. What a beautiful place!! So dreamy. Wish I could just sink into the photos. The banana gratin also looks simply amazing. Thanks so much!

    Comment by chelsea — On April, 6th, 2010 at 11:16 pm

  11. Simply the most beautiful blog post I’ve seen. Those parrot fish are something out of a dream world. Thanks so very much for sharing.

    Comment by Morgan G — On April, 6th, 2010 at 11:20 pm

  12. So colourful and refreshing !
    And these fishes ! Etaient-ils bons ?
    Un billet qui laisse rêveur…

    Comment by Vanille — On April, 6th, 2010 at 11:23 pm

  13. What dreamy photos! What a way to pull a new reader in! I’ll definitely be back for more . . .

    Comment by Tara — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:15 am

  14. It is so beautiful out there!

    Comment by peachkins — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:46 am

  15. this is a dream! these photos made my day. i’d love to be there now…

    Comment by irene — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:56 am

  16. wuauu!! it’s amazing!

    Comment by Ivana — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:58 am

  17. Your photos are so inviting!…And little Lulu is so adorable in her pink dress!…Thank you very much for sharing one more beautiful experience with us!

    Comment by Dimitra — On April, 7th, 2010 at 1:01 am

  18. Je viens de faire un merveilleux voyages dans les îles vierge, quel somptueux album de vacances! Et j’en reviens pas, tu emmènes tes moules à muffins en vacances¨!!!

    Comment by Spiruline — On April, 7th, 2010 at 1:03 am

  19. OMG…that place looks like paradise to me!
    Beautiful post! thank you for sharing!

    Comment by Marcela — On April, 7th, 2010 at 1:27 am

  20. Those rose plums look so delicious! My favorite photo is the one of your Lulu looking into the horizon over the ocean with her back towards the camera..so breathtaking!

    Comment by Spicy Green Mango — On April, 7th, 2010 at 1:59 am

  21. Bonjour Béatrice.
    La superbe émission “Envoyé Spécial” t’as mise en lumière et en image face à la caméra pour te révéler aux télespectateurs Français et aux passionnés de ton blog que nous sommes. J’en fait partie, et il faut sincèrement te remercier pour cette passion de la cuisine et de la photographie que tu partages régulièrement avec nous à travers ton blog.
    Des posts toujours aussi beaux les uns que les autres…Impossible de se lasser, on a toujours envie de revenir! L’incroyable mise en scène des plats, l’instant parfait des prises de vue, la qualité des articles donnent le ton et ton style bien à toi… Et si parfait! Ne change rien.
    Moi j’ai toujours envie de connaître la suite, savoir ce que tu vas nous raconter! Une histoire, un moment, une sensation de Bonheur!
    Je n’ai qu’un mot : continues! Fais nous encore rêver aussi longtemps que possible car chaque instant passé ici n’est que luxe, calme et volupté!
    Une agréable pause de douceur à des milliers de kilomètres, loin de mes montagnes, chez moi en Savoie.
    Et si moi aussi je rêve un jour d’être une petite “Béatrice”, et pourquoi pas espérer atteindre un jour sa notoriété (ce succès, cette récompense que tu mérites tellement!), il faut alors que je reprenne ma plume, mes idées, mes articles, mes passions… Mon blog “le cahier de Julie”

    Comment by Julie — On April, 7th, 2010 at 2:30 am

  22. [...] Lazy days on the island of Tortola — Paresser sur l’île de Tortola April 6, 2010 [...]

    Pingback by Lazy days on the island of Tortola « Nsibai's Blog — On April, 7th, 2010 at 2:35 am

  23. Magnifique! juste envie d’y être, là, maintenant, tout de suite… Félicitations pour ce blog très réussi

    Comment by Laurène — On April, 7th, 2010 at 2:59 am

  24. Those rose plums look like what we call water guava in Malaysia. They are light and crunchy, and full of water…..:-)

    Comment by Hungryc — On April, 7th, 2010 at 3:27 am

  25. oh my!! as Steve said “I’ve began saving” too..
    can you, please, share the address of this house you’ve been, and some more details in how to get there?

    I already looked at your pictures a thousand times, but I need to look again…amazing!! =)

    Comment by Silvia — On April, 7th, 2010 at 4:04 am

  26. On se croirait presque en vacances! Merci pour le dépaysement et la gourmandise!

    Comment by Botacook — On April, 7th, 2010 at 4:07 am

  27. C’est tellement beau, tout est parfait, je reste sans voix. Bravo et merci.

    Comment by Tifenn — On April, 7th, 2010 at 4:32 am

  28. Que dire ? Sinon que tes photos sont magnifiques et que j’ai, maintenant, une énorme envie de vacances :)

    Comment by Gwen — On April, 7th, 2010 at 4:39 am

  29. Ton site est une merveille à lire, un rayon de soleil au quotidien…Je viens de faire un joli voyage sur l’île de Tortola sur laquelle j’ai passé une journée il y a quelques années, pendant une croisière, et je n’ai qu’une envie, y retourner! Et ce gratin de bananes me fait envie!!

    Comment by Claire — On April, 7th, 2010 at 4:52 am

  30. Tout simplement magnifique!

    Ce blog est mon préféré et je le savoure avec bonheur depuis un bon moment sans oser commenter .

    Merci pour toutes ces photos qui font rêver que ce soient celles de Tortola que de ces nombreuses gourmandises.

    Et le reportage d’Envoyé Spécial la suite était vraiment chouette :)

    A bientôt !

    Comment by Capucine — On April, 7th, 2010 at 4:59 am

  31. J’ai enfin trouvé, avec juste le souvenir, après ‘envoyé spécial”, du mot tartine dans le titre !!! Et pas déçue ….Je ne suis pas sûre que tu sois bien consciente de tout le bonheur que tu nous donnes par tes post. Me voilà nouvelle abonnée.

    Encore merci.

    Comment by nathalie cipierre — On April, 7th, 2010 at 5:07 am

  32. Ho c’est magnifique, je suis nouvelle abonnée chez toi suite à l’émission envoyé spécial, mon seul petit hic c’est que je ne parle pas “English” oui je sais c’est nul je me le dis souvent …. Où se trouve exactement cet endroit merveilleux ???? Tes photos sont une invitation. Y a t-il un moyen d’avoir en “French” les recettes ????
    merci en tous les cas pour ce voyage c’est MAGNIFIQUE

    Comment by cristaxou — On April, 7th, 2010 at 5:35 am

  33. those rose plums, the view from the kitchen, those windows and the parrot fish… wow.. amazing vibrant colors. what a beautiful vacation that must have been Bea.

    Comment by Aran — On April, 7th, 2010 at 5:41 am

  34. I’m just speechless…. These images are breathtaking!
    Magda

    Comment by my little expat kitchen — On April, 7th, 2010 at 5:41 am

  35. those rose plums remind me of home (Hawaii)…this is a very beautiful place Bea! Thanks for sharing.

    Comment by kat — On April, 7th, 2010 at 5:54 am

  36. The parrot fish is beautiful! He kind of looks like a pineapple with those big scales. I bet he was delicious too though. And the view from the kitchen looks stunning. What a nice place to cook. Thanks for sharing your photos.

    Comment by Native Food and Wine — On April, 7th, 2010 at 6:34 am

  37. Les photos sont superbes. Merci de partager cette beauté avec nous. La recette à l’air vraiment délicieuse. Je l’essai cette semaine.

    Comment by Karine — On April, 7th, 2010 at 6:45 am

  38. WOW!!! beautiful place and gorgeous photos! your daughter is soo adorable! I will definately try the recipe so simple and looks delicious
    Good luck!

    Comment by Rowaida Flayhan — On April, 7th, 2010 at 6:49 am

  39. Breathtaking post, what an island? I am astonished. What a house? Those views are speechless, amazing… I never thought Tortola was so beautiful… And those bananas? My favorite type of bananas in the world…

    C.

    Comment by Claudia — On April, 7th, 2010 at 6:53 am

  40. Ooooh, rose plums!! I grew up eating those in Indonesia—perfect to quench your thirst on a hot day.

    What a perfect way to spend a holiday week, Bea! No agenda, exploring the island at your own leisure, not to mention that beautiful house perched atop that steep hill. What will I give to be there!

    Comment by Christy — On April, 7th, 2010 at 6:58 am

  41. Tellement inspirant. Merci pour ce récit!

    Comment by Sylvie — On April, 7th, 2010 at 7:03 am

  42. You consistently provide me a spiritual release, Bea. A moment to commune with nature through your beautiful day… and in this case, holiday. You are blessed, and you take the time to appreciate all of the little things that are a part of that blessing. Magnifique!
    XO
    valerie

    Comment by A Canadian Foodie — On April, 7th, 2010 at 7:07 am

  43. What a spot! Just fabulous to me w/ the sweeping views and lovely big windows..I see what you mean about child proof:) Busy little feet and all the altitude:)

    Those parrot fish!

    So nice the photo of you and Lulu..I love them all..

    Just great.

    Comment by Monique — On April, 7th, 2010 at 7:34 am

  44. Just divine, truly a transporting experience to read. Please, please let us know what camera you use! If only I could take photos half as good, I would be happy.

    Comment by Jane — On April, 7th, 2010 at 7:43 am

  45. The parrot fish are very unique, how did they taste? Gorgeous scenery, how did you find this rental, amazing views!

    Comment by Yvonne — On April, 7th, 2010 at 8:13 am

  46. What a beautiful place! Thank you for sharing your photos and experiences.

    Comment by bunkycooks — On April, 7th, 2010 at 8:41 am

  47. Great pics and holiday Bea. The Rose Plum.. I never knew they were called that. We call it water jambu here in Malaysia and they are juicy, “crunchy” and refreshing.. the ones we have here are bigger and more red (redder). Great place! The 2 parrot fishes are really something, aren’t they?

    Comment by Angela KL — On April, 7th, 2010 at 8:42 am

  48. This is such a beautiful post! Stunning photography. Lovely memories. Thanks so much for sharing your holiday with us.

    Comment by Jenious — On April, 7th, 2010 at 9:04 am

  49. Thank you everyone for your comments. It was a truly fun vacation, I must say. I already miss it. I rented the house via a place called CarribeanDays. They have all sorts of options, and prices too!

    As to the parrot fish, they tasted excellent. Very firm flesh, somehow reminding me of snapper, as a matter of fact!

    As to my camera, I used the Canon 1D Mark 4 for these shots.

    Merci encore!

    Comment by Béa — On April, 7th, 2010 at 9:04 am

  50. Cristaxou,

    La recette est traduite. Cherche “Le coin français”.

    Comment by Béa — On April, 7th, 2010 at 9:11 am

  51. these photos make me miss the Caribbean so much! so vibrant & gorgeous!!

    Comment by Tracy — On April, 7th, 2010 at 9:23 am

  52. Loved this post Bea!!! Makes me miss Trinidad where I am from….and the rose plums, one of my favs…I can just taste them now. My relatives lived there for years and I didn’t visit. Better late than never!

    Glad you enjoyed your time with the family…thanks for sharing!

    Comment by Marsha — On April, 7th, 2010 at 9:50 am

  53. The photos are GORGEOUS today. I am loving them. It makes me want to check the prices of such a vacation… I think the British Virgin Islands are going on my list of potential vacation spots.

    Also, Lulu is too adorable! Such a sweet little girl.

    And I love that you brought flour and muffin tins to your vacation. I have done the exact same thing! You can never be too careful with a rental house – often whoever you’re renting from doesn’t have the, ahem, same dedication to cooking as we do. I think it’s wonderful that you cooking is a joy, a thing you still want to do on vacation, rather than a chore, as some other people would view it.

    xo

    Comment by Carter @ The Kitchenette — On April, 7th, 2010 at 10:41 am

  54. these are so beautiful! i especially love the photo with the doors. thanks for the lovely post!

    Comment by a. maren — On April, 7th, 2010 at 11:15 am

  55. Oh my, what an amazing vacation! Your photos and words transported me there. Gorgeous!

    Comment by fresh365 — On April, 7th, 2010 at 11:17 am

  56. Closest thing to paradise I’ve ever seen! Well, Brazil is a bit too far away, but you may want to consider it for a future trip… I’ve got suggestions! :-)

    Wonderful report, loved everything about it…

    Comment by SallyBR — On April, 7th, 2010 at 11:19 am

  57. Bea, this is potentially award winning stuff!
    I loved the colour sequencing of the photographs. I spied sweet potatoes on the kitchen counter, can we expect a new yummy recipe?

    Comment by mademarian — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:11 pm

  58. [...] and recipes to tell a story. With some music on in the background, I let myself get lost in this recent post of [...]

    Pingback by What I am loving « Prairie Girl by Day — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:16 pm

  59. Magnifique reportage sur cette belle île ! Je regarde l’émission demain et je sais d’avance que ça va être un grand bonheur…

    Comment by Maybe — On April, 7th, 2010 at 12:47 pm

  60. Wow, that looks amazing! Nice little morning break, thank you.

    Comment by Degan — On April, 7th, 2010 at 1:13 pm

  61. Je ne sais si les mots suffisent pour cet instant de dépaysement total, d’un beauté (bleutée ;-) à couper le souffle, d’une douceur, le regard de ta fille dans le vent…. Merci pour ce reportage, tu nous a trasportés au loin (pas seulement géographiquement).
    J’adore ces poissons, ils étaient bons?

    Comment by Dada — On April, 7th, 2010 at 1:37 pm

  62. Thank you so much for posting this. I love reading and looking through it. :)

    Comment by Calvina — On April, 7th, 2010 at 2:10 pm

  63. Hi Bea, your photos look so georgeous! The journey seems to be incredible! Love your post! Hugs Yvonne

    Comment by Yvonne — On April, 7th, 2010 at 2:19 pm

  64. You are so funny! You travel with hazelnut flour! It’s something I would do! During a recent trip to the Florida Keys, I made cinnamon rolls from scratch and started the evening before we enjoyed them for breakfast. They were amazing and so much better than store-bought and much appreciated by my family.
    Your pictures are so beautiful and you inspire me to improve mine!

    Comment by Dragana — On April, 7th, 2010 at 3:00 pm

  65. this post is absolutely stunning!!! the colors and coolness freshened up this very hot day in new england! honestly bea such a gorgeous vacation!

    Comment by nadia — On April, 7th, 2010 at 3:06 pm

  66. Oh Bea, I had to comment. You pictures are magnificent. I love them all. I want to go to La Tortola and cook the same things… I love your blog,
    Cheers

    Elena

    Comment by Elena — On April, 7th, 2010 at 3:49 pm

  67. Love the picture of the parrot fish! (and of course, the others, too!)

    Comment by Silvia — On April, 7th, 2010 at 7:11 pm

  68. I am going to keep this post open in my browser for a couple of days – it feeds the soul.
    Thank you so much for sharing the beauty and wonder, Bea, it is pure MAGIC!

    Comment by Pippa — On April, 7th, 2010 at 9:47 pm

  69. We visited Tortola a few years ago, and I have several photos that are nearly identical to yours. It is truly my favorite vacation spot in the world. The views are stupendous, the beaches amazing, and the people are incredible. We loved every moment we spent there. Paradise! But I wanted to keep it a secret!

    Comment by Barbara — On April, 7th, 2010 at 10:52 pm

  70. Chouette, voici une bonne recette de dessert simple pour ce soir (mes parents visitent et comme mon papounet ne peut pas se passer de dessert, il faut que je suive…). Superbes photos, comme d’habitude. Les poissons perroquets sont magnifiques et delicieux, ça fait une éternité que je n’en ai pas mangé.

    Comment by Nathalie (spacedlaw) — On April, 8th, 2010 at 12:34 am

  71. Take my breathe away. Your pictures are just stunning. Wow. Thank you for this beautiful post.

    Comment by amy — On April, 8th, 2010 at 12:46 am

  72. Superbes photos, cela me rappelle la Guadeloupe (ainsi que le bon poisson et les pommes malakas); ça fait du bien les bonnes vacances sous le soleil de la Caraibe. Il faudra bien que j’essaie cette recette tres bientot.

    Comment by Agnès — On April, 8th, 2010 at 2:56 am

  73. Oh la la, ce billet est un régal! Merci pour le partage et les quelques minutes de vacances qu’il permet!

    Comment by Flo Makanai — On April, 8th, 2010 at 4:21 am

  74. hello tartine!
    what beautiful photos! i even searched for the place in order to arrange vacations there some time. i must tell you, you are an inspiration to me!
    congrats

    Comment by wabini — On April, 8th, 2010 at 5:18 am

  75. Bea, glad you had a lovely holiday – such a beautiful place, the colours are amazing. Hope Lulu enjoyed it too, send hugs from me. xx

    Comment by keiko — On April, 8th, 2010 at 8:17 am

  76. So nice to see your pictures of my part of the world. Love your picture of the plum rose which we call pommerac here. My sister lives in Tortola and I am absolutely petrified of those roads! I am going to forward here the link to your post as she would love to see these beautiful images. Lucky her she gets to live among such beauty

    Comment by WizzyTheStick — On April, 8th, 2010 at 9:01 am

  77. What wonderful pictures! I think we all fell in love with the scenery although we weren’t there… But maybe one day we will be lucky enough to enjoy it too!

    Comment by Sini — On April, 8th, 2010 at 9:38 am

  78. This post is as beautiful and inspiration as ever. Thank you.

    Comment by Heather Mayes — On April, 8th, 2010 at 10:14 am

  79. Rose plums I know as manzanas de agua, or water apples, as they’re called here in Costa Rica. I love thinking of them now as “rose plums” though, because I remember telling my husband that the 1st time I tried them that they tasted like I’d imagined a rose would taste. So pretty. I can’t wait until they’re in season here again!

    Comment by Jelli — On April, 8th, 2010 at 10:16 am

  80. Thanks again! The name of the house is Eternity.

    Comment by Béa — On April, 8th, 2010 at 12:16 pm

  81. Does it get more beautiful than that??? You’re right the hill looks scary, but sooo worth it! The pool, the view, the food, the house, all too enticing. I haven’t been on vacation in a long time and this made me feel like I was there for a split second. The Parrot Fish are gorgeous.

    Comment by Corine — On April, 8th, 2010 at 1:39 pm

  82. absolutely stunning Bea!!!
    I’m speachless too…
    Another world altogether.
    I know you deserved this-every minute of it.
    Thanks for sharing it with us
    xCarolg

    Comment by parisbreakfast — On April, 8th, 2010 at 1:42 pm

  83. I’m pretty sure this is now my favorite blog post of yours! absolutely breathtaking and makes u appreciate the simple beauty of nature. thank you for sharing us your vacation!

    Comment by boogie — On April, 8th, 2010 at 2:54 pm

  84. Absolutely beautiful. And the fact that you were able to bring your own essence to the place made it yours forever. I look forward to your book.

    Comment by Penny — On April, 8th, 2010 at 3:30 pm

  85. So glad you had a lovely holiday. The place looks dreamy and your photos are gorgeous! All the vibrant colours and exotic products… Beautiful.

    Comment by Sarka — On April, 8th, 2010 at 3:33 pm

  86. What a stunning view and a fabulous house. You took us through it with such grace and easy. I couldn’t help but smile when you said “Lazy Days.” That was the name we gave our house when we lived in Abaco for ten years in the northern Bahamas.
    Sam

    Comment by My Carolina Kitchen — On April, 8th, 2010 at 4:27 pm

  87. Si ce n’est pas le paradis ça doit lui ressembler… les poissons sont ma-gni-fi-ques ! Je vais monter un peu le chauffage et j’aurai l’impression d’y être ! ;-)

    Comment by b comme bon — On April, 8th, 2010 at 4:31 pm

  88. What a beautiful island. Love, love, love the pictures!

    Comment by Nisrine@Dinners & Dreams — On April, 8th, 2010 at 8:06 pm

  89. Hello Bea
    What a beautiful semblance!!! I admit your pictures are stunning colored and sharp. What is your camera and lens? Can you give us more detail about them?I actually need to get sharp lenses like yours.
    cheers..

    Comment by Sam — On April, 8th, 2010 at 10:57 pm

  90. This brings back wonderful memories for me, it’s so lovely to see your beautiful photos of a place that I enjoyed so much.

    I was fortunate enough to spend eight months living on Tortola in 2001/2002, it stills comes back to me in my dreams occasionally, and in my thoughts often.

    Comment by Emma — On April, 9th, 2010 at 9:15 am

  91. stunning, I felt like I just saw a glimpse of heaven. Thank you for sharing this piece of paradise with us.

    Comment by priscilla — On April, 9th, 2010 at 10:49 am

  92. you are so freaking beyond fabulous!

    Comment by midori — On April, 9th, 2010 at 12:07 pm

  93. I love all the fish pictures! Is that odd? I especially love the parrot fish! (I had never heard of this before!) Thanks for sharing.

    Comment by Shannel — On April, 9th, 2010 at 4:42 pm

  94. Does it get more gorgeous than this? I close my eyes and I still see the photos and feel like I am there.

    Comment by laura — On April, 9th, 2010 at 7:06 pm

  95. Première fois par ici, et pas du tout déçue du voyage! Les photos sont magnifiques, et appétissantes…
    A très vite alors!

    Comment by clémence — On April, 10th, 2010 at 11:03 am

  96. these are gorgeous! you take such great photographs.

    Comment by Stacey Kelly — On April, 10th, 2010 at 2:08 pm

  97. This is so gorgeous. I can feel the warm breeze. I want to be there right now. And I can’t believe you packed muffin molds. :)

    Comment by karen — On April, 10th, 2010 at 2:33 pm

  98. Merci, votre blog est un vrai régal pour les yeux et pour les papilles ….quel dommage que nous ne puissions pas regarder le reportage de France 2 au Québec … Bonne continuation ! Isa

    Comment by isabelle — On April, 10th, 2010 at 9:14 pm

  99. Amazing post, with stunning pictures too. Thanks for sharing.

    Comment by ALittaM — On April, 11th, 2010 at 6:08 am

  100. I just found your blog two days ago and have been reading your posts and admiring your photo’s ever since! I just love the whole look and feel of everything and your photo’s are so beautiful and inspiring! Just wanted to let you know :)

    Comment by Inge — On April, 11th, 2010 at 7:54 am

  101. What an inspiring post – amazing photos & beautiful narration!

    Comment by Sara — On April, 11th, 2010 at 2:03 pm

  102. [...] transition into beautiful Spring, with its blooming trees, happened while we were away. As we were driving back the airport, I could not help but notice pretty tiny pink and white [...]

    Pingback by Spring feel — Un air de printemps | La Tartine Gourmande — On April, 11th, 2010 at 2:21 pm

  103. [...] transition into beautiful Spring, with its blooming trees, happened while we were away. As we were driving back the airport, I could not help but notice pretty tiny pink and white [...]

    Pingback by Spring feel — Un air de printemps « Nsibai's Blog — On April, 12th, 2010 at 2:25 am

  104. I just returned from a little break to the east coast of Tasmania – remember the Friendly Beaches? I was determined to go there after reading your blog post from a few years ago. It is as beautiful as your photos captured. Holidays are so refreshing. Looking forward to enjoying your spring while we slip into winter here in Australia.

    Comment by Kate — On April, 12th, 2010 at 7:55 am

  105. Bea,
    Loved your photos. We were there in Feb. on a boat. Would you share your rental co. house etc. as we want to stay on Tortola next year. Thanks Lisa

    Comment by Lisa — On April, 12th, 2010 at 9:43 am

  106. Beautiful pictures . Just curious why you use chestnut flour so frequently ? is it more nutritious ? or just tastier ? also where do you find it in Boston ?

    Comment by vrinda — On April, 12th, 2010 at 10:55 am

  107. Thank you everyone!

    Kate, I keep such fond memories of Tasmania. Did you see that I also wrote about it here?

    Vrinda, I am not using chestnut flour but hazelnut flour. I love nuts of all kinds, particularly hazelnut, which definitely makes baked goods moist. Tasty. You can make your own by simply grinding whole hazelnut finely. Or I buy mine at Whole Foods in Boston. Hope that helps.

    Comment by Béa — On April, 12th, 2010 at 11:08 am

  108. colors of the pictures are incredible!

    Comment by Ola — On April, 13th, 2010 at 7:52 am

  109. I am staying at Frenchmans (which you’ve captured in one of your pics) in the West End of Tortola for my honeymoon in July. Your pictures are gorgeous! Can’t wait to experience it for myself.

    Comment by Laura — On April, 13th, 2010 at 8:15 am

  110. [...] Lazy Days on the Island of Tortola. Beautiful blog post about a family that rents a home on the top of a very steep hill on Tortola. [...]

    Pingback by BVI Trip Reports: April 3-10, 2010 : BVI Bound — On April, 13th, 2010 at 6:10 pm

  111. Amazing !!! Your photos, descriptions are so wonderful and it makes me green with envy ! :)

    Comment by Francine — On April, 13th, 2010 at 8:32 pm

  112. My heart melt already!

    Comment by lily — On April, 13th, 2010 at 8:43 pm

  113. I certainly did read your Tassie post – about a year ago. I even tried to rent the same beach house it looked so good – unfortunately it was booked out! I Hopefully you can come visit Australia one day again soon. I am sure Lulu would love it!

    Comment by Kate — On April, 14th, 2010 at 7:03 am

  114. Nouvelle venue sur ce blog (suite à l’émission Envoyé spécial la suite).
    Vos photos sont vraiment magnifiques (pas encore testé une de vos recettes). C’est un plaisir de lire/voir une de vos recettes. Merci.
    Bonne chance pour votre livre.

    Comment by Carine — On April, 14th, 2010 at 11:13 am

  115. OMG that place looks amazing. i’ve never seen such amazingly blue water in all my life. it would be a great place to visit. is the British Virgin Islands a nice and safe place to visit for holidays and is it expensive? i’ll be visiting the States ie san fran, new york in October and looking for resort style options to relax at after before returning to Australia :-)

    Comment by Simon Food Favourites — On April, 15th, 2010 at 12:00 am

  116. oh bea, c’est tellement beau! J’en ai le souffle coupe. Un grand merci pour ces photos de loin, du bout du monde, qui mettent un peu de reve dans ma journee de boulot.

    Comment by gracianne — On April, 15th, 2010 at 5:26 am

  117. WOW.. What a pleasure to read and visualize. I went to Tortola many years ago. It didn’t seem to change much from your wonderful photo’s.. Your recipes.. can’t wait to try!!!!!!!

    Comment by Pat — On April, 17th, 2010 at 4:04 pm

  118. Stunning!!!!

    Comment by sparkle — On April, 18th, 2010 at 5:14 am

  119. I think we call it HEAVEN!

    Comment by SaRaH — On April, 20th, 2010 at 4:18 am

  120. Wow, wow, and wow. Fantastic–all of it!

    Comment by Denise | Chez Danisse — On April, 22nd, 2010 at 4:24 pm

  121. your pictures are breathtaking! i think the parrot fish is the most interesting looking edible fish i have seen! im going to be staying on a sailboat in and around tortola with friends who love fresh, simple food and was hoping you could share some of the spots you found for fish, local groceries, etc. i want to emulate your bananas au gratin on the boat!

    Comment by allie — On April, 23rd, 2010 at 6:11 am

  122. [...] there you are. I made these cakes before we left on our recent vacation, to celebrate Easter early. In our family, Easter rhymes with chocolate, and molten chocolate [...]

    Pingback by Chocolate and tahini make a delicious goeey cake | La Tartine Gourmande — On April, 26th, 2010 at 12:42 pm

  123. Beautiful pictures as always. That place looks dreamy… and the rose plums, that is known as “water apple” where I come from (Philippines). There’s a closely related specie that’s called “malay apple” which comes from the same family.

    Comment by Jescel — On April, 28th, 2010 at 11:21 am

  124. Stunning holiday photos………Having just returned from Barbados, I can imagine the heat, the warmth and the laughter. Oh boy, I so want a DSLR!

    Comment by Kitchen Butterfly — On May, 2nd, 2010 at 1:10 pm

  125. In Nigeria, we call the rosy pink, refreshing apples water apples too!

    Comment by Kitchen Butterfly — On May, 2nd, 2010 at 1:11 pm

  126. What a beautiful place it is!!

    And Lulu has grown so much!

    We call those fruits rose apple :)

    Comment by Mrs Ergül — On May, 3rd, 2010 at 4:22 am

  127. Another fruit for you to enjoy if you are ever in Tortola around Christmas time. I just blogged about it and remembered you saying it was hard to find local produce there. These rumberries (guavaberries) might interest you http://breakfastlunchdinnerandpunch.blogspot.com/2010/05/rumberry-pie-chasing-guavaberries-in.html Sorry to post link here but I couldn’t find an email addy to send it to

    Comment by WizzyTheStick — On May, 3rd, 2010 at 5:24 pm

  128. Wow! what a beautiful place, and beach and pool and house and kitchen. Everything looks so beautiful and clean. Water and beach looks so warm. I can just live there and jump in it every day….. I am so very very jealous!

    you actually pack cooking stuff with you on a vacation. You are a true chef and P. is an angle not to say anything about packing molds.

    hugs to all 3 of you.

    Comment by Shazia — On May, 3rd, 2010 at 9:52 pm

  129. Hi Bea!
    I am your fellow daily in your absolutly stunning blog. Would you please send to me and my husband the telf number or web site of the rented villa you stayed in Tortola¿Thanks from my country, Venezuela. a Big Big kiss for Lulu.

    Comment by Geraldine Battaglini — On May, 13th, 2010 at 9:00 pm

  130. Your photos are magnificent. And the recipie so easy and nice :-)

    Comment by Penelope — On May, 19th, 2010 at 5:17 am

  131. Your photos are breathtaking. This house is gorgeous and your recipes sound so miam miam

    Comment by le petit cabinet de curiosites — On May, 26th, 2010 at 2:11 am

  132. Oh la la c’est fabuleuuu..la villa, les muffins la tortola. les photos et tout..!!

    Merci d’avoir partagé tout ça avec nous…thank u!

    Comment by Laetitia — On May, 29th, 2010 at 10:17 am

  133. those parrot fish!

    Comment by pessy — On June, 2nd, 2010 at 6:30 am

  134. those parrot fish! that view! and packing cooking gear…your the best!

    Comment by pessy — On June, 2nd, 2010 at 6:30 am

  135. [...] there you are. I made these cakes before we left on our recent vacation, to celebrate Easterearly. In our family, Easter rhymes with chocolate, and molten chocolate [...]

    Pingback by Chocolate and tahini make a delicious goeey cake « LA TARTINE GOURMANDE — On June, 18th, 2010 at 12:58 am

  136. You are an amazing chef and an amazing photographer.

    Comment by Saba Seyrafi — On June, 19th, 2010 at 9:02 am

  137. How can my family and I rent the same house on Tortola this coming winter?

    Comment by martha — On July, 29th, 2010 at 10:39 pm

  138. So glad you enjoyed your visit to our island! You do get used to the hills…eventually.

    Comment by Abigail Blake — On August, 1st, 2010 at 11:02 am

  139. [...] Tortola, it was also Lulu’s first vacation at the beach in [...]

    Pingback by Belle-Île en mer, la Bien Nommée | La Tartine Gourmande — On September, 25th, 2010 at 9:14 pm

  140. [...] the end of March, we traveled to the island of Tortola in the Caribbeans where we indulged in a relaxing [...]

    Pingback by We talked about 2010 and 2011, and tiramisu too | La Tartine Gourmande — On January, 5th, 2011 at 10:21 am

  141. [...] March, it’s the lovely island of Tortola that Lulu, my parents-in-law, P. and I visited. We enjoyed a week filled with rest, play and [...]

    Pingback by I want to travel | La Tartine Gourmande — On April, 7th, 2011 at 11:01 am

  142. I showed my 11 year old daughter your blog
    she was very impressed, the photos are wonderfull and so is the island have fun

    Comment by avital baron izackov — On April, 8th, 2011 at 10:02 am

  143. Merci pour ce voyage
    Je ne sais que dire c est super comme toujours
    Si tui pouvais un tout petit peu penser aux Français qui n ont pas la maitrise parfaite de L anglais surtout au niveau des recettes .Ce serait parfait.meci

    Comment by elisabeth — On April, 9th, 2011 at 12:30 pm

  144. [...] row, l to r: Amelia wedding gown by Vera Wang; cardigan by Leifsdottir; eggplant photo by La Tartine Gourmande (photo from La Tartine Gourmande’s Flickr stream) — Bottom row, l to r: Capri rings by [...]

    Pingback by color palette: aubergine dream » DELPHINE EPHEMERA — Wedding Invitations, Letterpress, and Graphic Design Studio — On November, 16th, 2011 at 1:12 am

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