Services

By Mike Karanicolas

One of the drawbacks of an "unspoiled paradise" is an almost total lack of modern amenities. Few hotels have 24-hour power and the island seems to have almost no telephones. Most hotels will only take reservations via email. The island does have a radio system for internal communication, but this hardly helps you in your quest to send mum her birthday wishes.

If you want to make a long distance call, your two options are the Enitel Office and Dolphin Inn, both of which are located in the village on the main road. The latter also offers the island's only pay-internet service, which runs relatively fast but costs 60 cents an hour. There are no ATM's or banks on the island, so make sure to bring enough cash.

Shopping on Little Corn is almost non-existent. Essentials such as sunscreen and bug repellent are sold, but at vastly inflated prices. These shops are in the local area of the village, along the paved road to the north of the hotels and restaurants. There is one interesting shop worth checking out just south of Dolphin Inn. Walk down the path and you'll see a building made entirely out of glass bottles. It's owned by the deputy mayor of the island and contains a range of goods, including some locally-made crafts.

For groceries, head to Oliver's Grocery on the main path about five minutes up from the dock. Supplies are still expensive here, but not outrageously so.

Generally speaking, shopping on Little Corn is expensive and selection is narrow. You're best off buying everything you think you'll need before you get to the islands.