On the streets, wending your way down narrow roads, you can see wave after wave of pastel, and brightly coloured houses. Some homes are three and four hundred years old and are constructed with blocks of limestone, whilst the more modern versions are made of concrete block.
Most of the designs reflect external chimneys and buttresses, peaked roofs with Flemish gables, low overhanging eaves and top-hung shutters. Windows come replete with 'eyebrows' and 'lips'. Front doors are usually solid wood, the older ones being hand-carved. There is usually a porch with a welcoming stairway. Gardens are filled with luscious tropical shrubs, palms, banana trees and frangipani trees. Inside the century homes, there is usually a fireplace, wooden floors and open wooden joists in the ceiling. Always loads of character and charm.
St. George - the earliest capital of the island - from sometime in the 1600's - has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No owner anywhere in the village is allowed to make any alternations or changes to the inside or outside of their buildings. Renovations and repairs have to hold true to the original design.
Not to be outdone, Hamilton, the 'new' capital, certainly has its charms as well. Front Street has its share of beautiful architecture reflected in the sun off the water in the harbor. There are parks that provide peaceful and calming spots to sit and people watch: Queen Elizabeth Park, Victoria Park, Wesley Park and Barr's Bay Park with their carefully tended gardens, fish ponds, sculptures, and a gazebo or two.
Our sojourn on the island will definitely be remembered for these white stepped roofs and pastel coloured houses.
