Kathryn,

I can't speak specifically to the VIllas on Great Bay but we know someone who used to stay there and loved the place.

Regarding bringing your own food - you might want to rethink that IF you have to pay extra for shipping luggage. I would not hesitate to bring frozen meat in a good carry-on cooler, but groceries are readily available in major groceries similar to those from home, and there is also a condo-apartment provisioning service, Shop and Drop SXM, whom many of us use. The owner, Jeannie, does a great job and her site is very easy to navigate. Can't tell you how nice it is to arrive at your place, drop your luggage and go straight to the fridge for a cold libation of your choice. She is listed on this website under the advertiser heading above and you might want to check out her ad and service.

Enjoy your time however you decide to manage the food thing. SXM is an incredible island well worth exploring. Renting a car is a huge asset even if only for part of your trip, but remember NOT to leave anything you value in it, not even locked in the trunk. Explore and enjoy, and as in visiting anywhere as a relative island newbie, keep your head about you and have an awesome good trip.