First arrival in New Bern, it was summer just past 4th of July. We quickly learned the name of New Bern came from Bern, the capital of Switzerland. There are many lovely bears around just everywhere you go, they are different color, size, dress and shape. A small gift shop in the town center carries all the special Swiss products and gifts.
From the marina, the town center just 2 minute walk, besides many nice restaurants, bars, there is also a lovely hardware store carry items both boaters and house wives want list, from candles to find dishes, bowls and special signature kitchen towels.
There is a farmers market with 2 minute walk from the marina, opening every saterday morning, we can find organic veggies and home made products. We often buy some coffee, eggs and veggies.
With bicycles our daily routines are expended to the out circle. With 15 minute ride, we pass a nice neighborhood and street to the shopping center, including Walmart, Panera, Aldi and other fast food restaurants.
There is a nice park by the water called Jack’s Island Lawson Creek Park, while you find a bench to sit and soaking yourself in the sun, listening gentle river waive pat the tree roots and mini yellow sandy shore. Ducks and water birds swim by, butter flys and bees add more smell of spring and summer. I even enjoy winter time with warm sun light. once a while couples or family with kids visit and make picnic, then I realize this place is full of livelihood.
Holidays make this town more colorful. Most boaters are lighting up with beautiful decorations, the parks are putting out holiday figures. The Air show is another attraction for both local and tourists. The marina is generously catering Thanksgiving meals to share appreciation of boaters enthusiasm.
During our stay in the marina, we rented a car driving up to Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, and Virginia Beach.
The end of the season, we hauled out our boat to Duck Creek Marina, where is out side the town with Food Lion super market where about 7 minute bike ride. Just before summer arrival, we completed the boat refit including the bottom paint again.