December always brings to mind the surreal, magical & surprisingly untouched by commercialism, Dean’s Blue Hole (DBH), the deepest saltwater underground cave, at 663 ft, in the world, located in the warm climes of Long Island in The Bahamas.
Why? Well, first it is warm in December when much of the northern hemisphere is fairly cold, often deep in snow. Arguably, it is one of the most perfect vacation spots for those who want to get away from the commercialism which appears to stretch across significant parts of the world in this last month of the year. Most importantly, it is truly magical, sublime & surreal, offering clear blue waters, superbly adjacent to a beautiful, white sandy Atlantic beach.The deep hole is filled with all manner of sea creatures, which include seahorses & turtles
The water in DBH of an amazing clear blue hue,& its abundant sea life makes it perfect for snorkeling. It is also great for beginner swimmers. There is a rocky partway up a cliff from which to jump into the enticing water below, albeit it takes something of an adventurous spirit to take the plunge but worth it.
My first encounter with this surreal place was in December 2011, when I had won a swim camp training trip for raising the most money for an hour- long swim marathon I had participated in to raise funds for KidsSport. The two week swimming & training was terrific & this visit to DBH was a highlight. There are no businesses clustered around the hole, giving the spot a feeling of serenity, alongside its magical quality.
Underground caves are found around the world but DBH stands out from all others.
Geologists believe these awe-inspiring sinkholes result from underwater erosion, where limestone has been eroded through a combination of chemical reactions.
I spent a part of my childhood in Zambia, near the Congo border, where there was a very deep sinkhole nearby.
Knowing one was swimming at the top of such depth was always exhilarating as a child.
DBH is king of all sinkholes.
It also attracts free-divers from around the world, who come to meet the challenge of going to great depths without diving equipment.
Talk about holding one’s depth & breath!
Getting to Long Island is relatively easy, with Nassau, The Bahamas’ capital, well served by a number of international airlines. From there one takes a small plane to Long Island.
Book accommodation as one cannot easily find it if one leaves it until arriving.
Posted by S Fuller