Today was one of those picture perfect SXM days. Few clouds, calm seas, deep blue sky, and a trip over to Orient for the day. We spent the day at LeString Beach, which we have spent many a days at prior to Irma. They have been moved to a different location, a bit down the beach from where they were, but found them with no trouble, and was not disappointed. Le String has always been a fun spot, but their new location features a brand new menu, much more upscale than the previous locations, Also, they have more room to spread out. Plenty of seats and umbrellas set up, but in all the years coming, i think they had four maybe five couples sitting. I never saw the beach as empty, especially during this week, which we do annually.

The food was phenomenal. They have hired a ''real chef'', and oh my god, both our entrees were to die for!! Reasonably priced, and to try to bring in more business if you eat there, you know longer have to pay for chairs and umbrella. For those who may remember Jean Henri, the beach guy, he is BACK at LeString after a seven or eight year absence. Besides the great service, the great food, and the wonderful hosts Severine and Lionel, we had a perfect day. It is sad to see so few people on the beach, and very few walkers. Never thought i would say it, but not seeing all the ''gawkers'' from the ships, it was quite different. We will be spending many more days there this trip.

Tonight, we met up with some good friends that live on the island and went to Pineapple Pete's for dinner. Food was typical Pete's.....good, and plentiful. After the huge lunch we had, just got a half rack of ribs, and bbq chicken combo. Couldnt even come close to finishing it. My wife loves their seafood soup, and made a meal out of it. Another nice night out, with great friends.

After we headed back, it was after 11, decided to see if there was anything going on at the casino. VERY QUIET. Only four players to a black jack table, all petitioned off for covid. Also, upon entrance, every person gets scanned for temperature, must sanitize hands, and MUST wear mask. What a difference a year makes. I sat at a bj table....lasted about 8 hands, lost my hundred dollar bill within ten minutes. Plenty of time left to get it back.

If anyone is reading this, and is on the fence about coming down, all i can say is BOOK IT AND COME. The island appears to be very safe, precautions are in place, and the people here really want to see you, and your money. Even though there aren't anyone near the crowds though this week so far, traffic continues to be busy. Took about 20 minutes today just to get through Marigot via the causeway. That main street heading to the other side was so slow, backed up, and seemed like we were standing still more than moving. Past Marigot it opened up. COME ON DOWN.