This is my first Trip Report and 6th year in a row to SXM. We just can’t seem to travel to any other island-love St. Maarten. Our usual 2 week trip could only be 10 days this time but grateful to be there.
Flight: On Sunday, flight was out of Boston through Philadelphia without any problems. Met by sponsor Travel Car Rental (free cell phone) and off to our first stay on the French side (Mt. Vernon). Our Wednesday departure was through Charlotte with some delays-annoying but not a big problem.

Accommodations:
First Week - Mont Vernon complex: Our studio was in the Aruba Bldg. and a very nice unit with full view of Orient Beach, covered patio and a small open deck. It had a washing machine (ok, we had problems with it like others but figured it out), comfortable king size bed, a safe and great air conditioner, also internet access but we didn‘t bring our laptop. There was a limited supply of towels, only 4 channels on the tv, small pillows, not enough toiletries, and horrors-no wine opener, but we loved it anyway and would definitely return there. We were skeptical after reading many negative reports on Mt. Vernon. However, we were surprised that while not a timeshare resort with amenities, the grounds, pool and many of the units were in good shape. The parking lot and the beach in front were well lit and never a problem for us (although there is a lot of walking which we love). We found security and maintenance people friendly and helpful. Our neighbors were a lovely French couple and somehow, with neither of us able to speak each other‘s language, we did manage to enjoy each other’s company (with lots of sign language). Every morning we walked the beach and decided where we would land for the day (we tried Sun Beach, Palm Beach, Orange Fever, and Le String “still a favorite“). We had lunch at all of them but Palm Beach stood out with amazing salads and ambience. You have got to see this place and the transformation of the whole area.
Last 3 days - Simpson Bay Pelican area: We stayed at a small complex next to La Vista (Cae Jae Haven). Our small (very small) studio was perfect for the 3 days and we were lucky to get it. Every place we tried to book was either too expensive or reserved. It is the perfect location and I would recommend it for short stays.

Other Stuff French Side:
It was nice to be on the French side and not deal with traffic for a change. We enjoyed Harmony Night on Tuesday and the LoLo’s in Grand Case. The public parking lot is a bonus and well lit. We did have an incident where someone approached us as we were leaving our car and said he was collecting $4 dollars for parking. My husband reached in his pocket to pay and I said “no way, this is a public lot” and we walked away. Just be aware that it could happen. We always love to stop in Calmos Café for a drink. On another visit to Grand Case, shopped in some of the boutiques and had tappas and drinks and listened to music at the Blue Martini. We never did any fine dining in Grand Case (not this time). We finally found Yvette’s and loved it - the food was amazing and wish we had more time to go back. Rancho De Sol was fun and their pizza was the best! Dinghy Dock is one of our favorite places for Happy Hour and the bartender is adorable. Always enjoyable for meeting people! While in the neighborhood, we hit the Westin (Dawn Beach Casino) and Quay Quest at Captain Oliver‘s for pizza (we enjoyed our pizza but the couple next to us said their meal was the worst they had on their vacation, sorry to say). This trip was very lucky for us as we managed to win a little and kept it!!! Another night we went to the Princess Casino - a favorite of ours (like the French atmosphere). We did notice that they now have security check in. One afternoon, we drove to Philipsburg, walked around and had a fabulous dinner in Chesterfields. The food was delicious and the service and view was top notch.

Other Stuff Dutch Side:
Our last 3 nights were on the Dutch side. We do love being able to walk at night to the restaurants and Hollywood Casino (I would say the Dolphin Casino but it was closed. Does anyone know what happened?) We didn’t try any new restaurants but went to some of our favorite spots, Lee’s Grille for the best red snapper filet, Pineapple Pete’s, Le Sucurie bakery (wonderful croissants and coffee by far), Buccaneer Beach Bar, and the Greenhouse (always very quiet there-I do hope they last). Our new favorite spot is Karakters. What a gem!. We went late on a Sunday and very crowded. We sat on the patio behind the “school bus” near the runway. They have the best salads and love wine served in a glass. So many people just enjoying themselves! Another place we will revisit for sure! Other stops along the way were Sunset Beach Grille (too many people), the Boat Bar (more enjoyable and better prices), Mullet Beach and Rosie’s ribs (yummy). Wish we could have made it to Baie Rouge as it is one of our 3 favorite beaches and wish we could have gone to Anguilla as hoped but that’s why we have to come back.

What a wonderful (and safe trip) we had and met many friendly folks along the way. The unusually hot breezy weather made it even more enjoyable staying right on Orient Beach and jumping in the gorgeous blue ocean. Thank you to everyone on TTOL. Your help is so valuable. We will be back!!!