Arrival was matched by two other US flights and the dreaded KLM. Despite the worst case scenario they managed to get us processed and I like the fact that they dropped the form stuff and basically rush you through. Parking lot situation a bit of a challenge as I went for rental car leaving wife to deal with luggage and returned to a new and confusing situation. With the help of a George Washington we were able to get out of the lot I entered which required a ticket which required cash prepaid. Thank god the people behind me were patient as I bottled up the line for a few minutes.

Off to Cupacoy which handled Irma as well as any other spot. The Shores was a perfect fit for our needs and the restaurants were great for daily breakfast and one great meal at Mario’s. Also got to meet Rick who owns Fat Tony’s. A great source of info on the days following Irma. The Dutch side rolled up their sleeves and got the job done. What a nightmare as imagined but the real description was amazing to hear. Rick cooked for over 100 a day while they (Dutch government people) helped the locals get back to livable conditions. Ocean Beach Club completely gone but the other places not so bad for just 18 months post Irma.

Karacter. Did the place really get hit? Same service (great) Same menu. Same awesome view. Several days here. No regrets.

Anse Marcel and I mean the beach club . Ditto Karacter description except you could see new structures. The rest of the area not so much but what a great three visits. Ate and drank too much in appreciation
We timed our Orient Beach trip to least in port cruise ship day. This was the disappointment day. Bikini Beach went the way of Applebee’s as food goes and service stunk. Pre formed calamari resembling an onion ring and I can’t even remember the other items. Disappointment maximum. Price ridiculous. No return to Orient this trip.

Drove through Grand Case on the way back and decided we would not be traversing the island for any evenings. I hope they fix this mess as we love the area and the offerings that used to be.
Maho. It has some life and is clawing back. Just like Grand Case I hope a full recovery ensues.

Simpson Bay. Wow. We had a decent to good experience at Skip Jacks and our old standby Toppers but the young crowd that attends the area is amazing. As is the case often with us, we love to stay out the same late hours but 55 year olds can’t comfortably be around those in their 20s. The crowd changes big time at about 10 and the area around Toppers was Mardi Gras like. Impressive but a bit intimidating. I speak of Friday and Saturday nights only for the crazy crowd.

The gem of the trip was our return to Baie Rouge. It was a 5 minute drive and perfect. $20 for chairs and umbrella and very few people. The sand was plentiful and it was heaven. I hope Gus can survive on what little customers are there and I do not understand the problem with those that don’t want him there but the place restored our 100% commitment to not go to other islands. SXM is home away from home. Not having a sign has to make it tough for Gus. We have been there many times in the past and I had trouble finding the entrance.

Sunset Bar and Grill. What an upgrade having such a large area and a pool. A bit pricey but well worth it for the experience.

Our departure was fine despite the conditions that are present.

Now the wait until next time. The sand moves so slow through the hour glass when you just got home and are looking forward to the return trip.