Best Trip to SXM Yet!

GSO-CLT-SXM on USAIR on time and no problems going or returning. On the return we were able to upgrade to 1st class which was a great treat for us. Mohamed at Ace/Panoramic car rental had left our name off of the arrival list but his assistants handled it and we were still in and out with our car in about 10 minutes. Got caught in the traffic exiting the airport to pick up a backup cell phone at Sharon’s. All the new roundabouts seemed to help quite a lot .We later found out that our Verizon Blackberry’s worked fine from the Oyster Pond area.

Stayed at the Caribbean Nature (http://www.locasunsea.net/naturissimo/accueil.engl.html) Oyster Pond. It has 3 bungalows and 1 studio and a pool –all very private. Worked great for us. Go straight out the patio door to the pool and a nice view past the pool. We had stayed in Orient Beach the first 3 visits so this was a new experience learning the Oyster Pond area- found Capt Oliver’s- Dinghy Dock- Busbys and Daniels by the Sea-Mamas Pizza-Le Frigate-for meals.

Beach time was spent one day at Happy Bay (over the hill walk from Friars Bay- then on the way out I finally found the easier route by the wall –to be used next visit). Then most days at Club O on Orient – the water was warm and fairly calm. Even played volley ball on the court next to the Perch. Meet some friends (Gary & Suzanne) for lunch at Papagayos .Other lunches at Andy and Cheryl’s and of course they make you feel comfortable and welcome.

Of course while we spent time at Orient Beach it was time to get Nancy another bathing suit made at Luis Gomez‘s and this one seems to really please her.

We also spent a couple of days just relaxing at the bungalow pool and ate lunch on the patio where we did cocktail hour most afternoons after beach time.

Also ate in Grand Case at IlNetuno (spic) and Bikini Beach Bar (Bikini seemed a little different this year- could have just been us). We intended to try Cito’s and Calmos Café but ran out of time this trip so maybe next year. Sand gravity was incredible this year and we just didn’t get to all the planned visits. The weather cooperated as we only had rain showers at night so more beach time and less exploring.

All in all it was our best trip. Nancy was able to relax more this trip and recharge and so was I. We have already had thoughts on how to spend more than 8 nights next year- maybe 10-14?

Thanks to all that keep the board going and those making contributions as to places to visit –eat –and explore…