"Go see, travel, sail, make up your own mind" I like that. Having had a career in the military I had the opportunity to travel to many a land. My mantra was always you make of it what you make of it. That said it is an individual perspective. But, I agree with your closing. We all need to get out there and sail and see it for ourselves. My wife and I had the greatest opportunity to sail in the San Blas Islands last summer. The Kunas don't have squat compared to the poorest of the poor in our country. BUT, they all had smiles, all were friendly and helpful, and they looked a lot happier than most people I come in contact with in my home town. I am counting the days when I can get out on the blue water and sail. You guys are sooooooo lucky.