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Like all of you, RumShopRyan and I are still heartbroken over the destruction that Hurricane Irma and Maria have inflicted on our beloved Caribbean Islands.

It’s overwhelming to see how many people need help out there. I wish we could help them all. I wish we could do more than just get the word out and send a few donations. It doesn’t seem like enough, but for right now, it’s the best we can do.

It’s difficult to decide who needs the spotlight the most on our blog. In truth, they all do.

quote, help, inspirational quote

Across the Caribbean people have lost their jobs, their homes and life as they knew it is gone. Normal everyday things we take for granted such as a roof over our head, running water and electricity are now considered a luxury for those affected by the storms.

So again, how do I choose who to write about? Like any passionate writer, I can only do so by personal experience and what’s close to my heart – and Virgin Gorda is just that.

RumShopRyan and I were there on our honeymoon only THREE WEEKS before Mother Nature decided to level out the once lush and wondrous rock.

Every enchanting thing we experienced is now gone. Friends we made are now struggling with their new reality.

Restaurants we enjoyed are now in peril. Though unable to receive a paycheck, the employees are still working hard to clean up the mess that Irma ruthlessly left behind.

One restaurant in particular tugs at our heartstrings…

My one and only request during our honeymoon was that Ryan would treat me to a nice romantic dinner instead of the usual beach bar. Once in a while this beach girl likes to hang up her do-rag and let her hair down.

I asked on my Instagram account the best place to go for such an evening out and everyone unanimously said CocoMaya.  

For the past six years CocoMaya has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Located at Fort Point in Spanish Town with a “Beach-Chic” vibe, it’s waterfront dining at it’s finest.

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Gorda, Restaurant

The atmosphere and food were sensational. It was definitely one of the most memorable nights during our celebratory week on Virgin Gorda.

Virgin Gorda, Cocomaya, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, Spanish Town, Restaurant, British Virgin Islands

We enjoyed our evening so much that we went two more times during our trip.

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant

Sadly, CocoMaya did not fare well during Irma and now the staff needs your help.

They have created a gofundme to help them make ends meet while no income is coming in.

They are working hard to get CocoMaya up and running so wonderful memories can be made again.

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Irma Relief

Before Irma

 

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant, Hurricane Relief

After Irma

 

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant, Hurricane Relief

Before Irma

 

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant, After Irma

After Irma

 

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant, Hurricane Relief, After Irma

Cocomaya, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, Restaurant, Hurricane Irma

Please consider donating. Any amount will help!

Sincerely,

Castaway Crystal

 

(A big Thank You to Marta Garraus for sending me post Irma pictures)

 

P.S. – Leaving soon? These recommended links below will help you save money and book your trip:

We use all the companies listed here or on the resource page. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us bring you more Caribbean content so that you can save money and have a better island vacation. Crystal and I greatly appreciate any support!

About the Author: Castaway Crystal

I'm a beach bunny hopping from island to island with camera in hand. I love experiencing all the Caribbean has to offer and sharing it with you! Conch fritter connoisseur, animal and nature lover, and RumShopRyan’s salty first mate. To learn more, visit our About Us Page.