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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166190
07/19/2018 08:50 PM
07/19/2018 08:50 PM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,646 Brookfield, CT.
pat
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,646
Brookfield, CT.
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IF Club Orient was NOT there and it was a French Beach with Clothing Optional section but no resort... Would you go to SXM? Is this a trick question? I’ll concede, there are people who go to SXM for the pleasure of the clothing optional experience only and many of those people enjoy Club Orient as their preferred place to stay, but there are thousands who really could care less about either one. St. Maarten/St. Martin is so much more than just a clothing optional experience and I know you know that, too. The beaches are beautiful and incredible: the dining options range from burgers to French Bistros to Lolos to exclusive dining options to pizza places and so many other possibilities;the people are generally friendly and kind and until The b itch Irma raised her ugly head, the logistics of getting there along with affordability of doing so were both doable for huge numbers of Americans, this one included. The free port shopping used to be awesome even if not so much these days but bargains can still be found if you look hard. And then there are the other things such as activities and out-Island experiences that° can be enjoyed from SXM so easily. I think you’re pulling our leg with this question?
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166193
07/19/2018 09:05 PM
07/19/2018 09:05 PM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,646 Brookfield, CT.
pat
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,646
Brookfield, CT.
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That’s too bad because so many of us enjoy so much more about the island than just that feature and would go there in a heartbeat with or without clothing optional and/or Club Orient. But to each his own and if he really feels that way, at least now you know!
As an after thought, do you feel the same way?
Last edited by pat; 07/19/2018 09:08 PM.
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166202
07/19/2018 11:26 PM
07/19/2018 11:26 PM
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Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 933
SammyM
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Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 933
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What an interesting question. For me and my wife the answer is definitely yes, but it's important to remember that on SXM Club Orient really sets the tone for just not this island but all of the Caribbean. There is no other place quite like it, but if it didn't come back (rebuild) I would still visit St. Martin for the many reasons that 'Pat' and others listed above. The people, the dining, the shopping, the attractions, and so much more make SXM a very special place. Some people may not like what I am about to say, but in certain ways Club Orient has also hindered St. Martin. Before everyone gets their 'ire' up, please let me explain.
Many of the folks who visit and stay at Club Orient year-after-year have developed a type of 'right of ownership' here. Not everyone, but some people. Some are less than welcoming when people from cruise ships and other visitors in general walk down through the clothing optional section in front of Club 'O'. Warning signs about cameras, cell phone pictures, and the security personnel who watch over this area sometimes creates an atmosphere that is overly restrictive for those who are nothing more than curious. I have seen this first hand, and I often wish that those who choose to go without clothing would inter-mingle with those who keep their suits on. And, by all means stop treating the word 'textile' as some kind of negative thing.
Recently, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit the island of Mallorca in the Mediterranean Sea, and made it a point to spend a full day at Es Trenc beach near Campos on the island's south side. We had never been here before, but had heard about what a beautiful beach this was similar to those on Ibiza. After our driver dropped us off, we walked through different inter-connected beaches that lined this coast. First, there was a very calm beach that was occupied heavily by young families with small children. Then, a more standard beach similar to the primary section of Orient Beach. Next, was a gay section with primarily male couples, and then a large nude section which was comprised of people from all ages. There were single men, single women, families, couples, and so on. As we continued our walk, the nude section slowly faded and a more standard beach returned (although one in every four women went topless). There were no security guards watching everyone, nor warning signs regarding photography, or any type of rules that warned if you "crossed this line" the police will swoop in and fine you. It was refreshing watching the people who chose to wear swimsuits mix in comfortably with those who chose to go nude. Everyone was enjoying the day with or without apparel.
Here, my wife and I set up our beach umbrella and enjoyed a wonderful day under the sun. I couldn't help but compare this to Orient Beach and Club Orient. And, I must honestly say that as much as we have enjoyed all of Orient Beach in the past I wished at that moment it was more like this Spanish beach where everyone could do whatever best 'suited' them without all the rules and regulations. So, if Club Orient didn't return we would indeed return, but only if the new beach truly mirrored the clothing optional beaches of the French Riviera and the Balearic Islands. Either way, we will still be coming back to SXM for so may other reasons.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166205
07/20/2018 12:51 AM
07/20/2018 12:51 AM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,613 originally Long Island, NY/now...
irish1223
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,613
originally Long Island, NY/now...
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One of the things we found interesting (and pleasant) during our visit last month was the mixture of clothed and nude people on the Club O section of Orient Beach, and their attitudes toward each other. Because it was really the only place one could rent good chairs and umbrellas, plus get a decent meal &/or drinks, the majority of visitors stayed on that end. Everyone mingled together and no one cared who wore what. Everyone was just happy to be there. It made any (real or imaginary) divide disappear. We were traveling with another couple who had been to the island several times before with us, but who had always been a bit reserved about beaching it down on the Club O section. (We usually prefer that end of the beach for various reasons), In any event, we all ended up down there together, more or less out of necessity. Our friends realized that sharing the beach with naturalists was no big deal, no one cared about those who wore suits, and we all had some wonderful days.
We will always return to SXM, even if there is no Club O. It’s wonderful, but so are many other things on the island. We do, however, hope they rebuild and come back strong.
Robin & Ed
One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. - Henry Miller
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: pat]
#166212
07/20/2018 07:48 AM
07/20/2018 07:48 AM
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Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 381 CT,USA
DICKG
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 381
CT,USA
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166231
07/20/2018 11:23 AM
07/20/2018 11:23 AM
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Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,081 Clearwater, FL
Biturbo
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,081
Clearwater, FL
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Actually, Club Orient the resort is not there, but we are still going back.
Our procedure for years has been spending one week at Club Fantastico, one at Club O.
We will still spend our 1st week at CF, our 2nd in Oyster Pond (Naturist's Getaway). Now, the question has previously been asked "if you didn't have the c/o option, would you still return?". Of course we would, but not as often nor for as long.
I'm going where the weather suits my clothes.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#166233
07/20/2018 11:26 AM
07/20/2018 11:26 AM
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Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 7,491 Vermont
sxmmartini
OP
Traveler
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OP
Traveler
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 7,491
Vermont
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What an interesting question. For me and my wife the answer is definitely yes, but it's important to remember that on SXM Club Orient really sets the tone for just not this island but all of the Caribbean. There is no other place quite like it, but if it didn't come back (rebuild) I would still visit St. Martin for the many reasons that 'Pat' and others listed above. The people, the dining, the shopping, the attractions, and so much more make SXM a very special place. Some people may not like what I am about to say, but in certain ways Club Orient has also hindered St. Martin. Before everyone gets their 'ire' up, please let me explain.
Many of the folks who visit and stay at Club Orient year-after-year have developed a type of 'right of ownership' here. Not everyone, but some people. Some are less than welcoming when people from cruise ships and other visitors in general walk down through the clothing optional section in front of Club 'O'. Warning signs about cameras, cell phone pictures, and the security personnel who watch over this area sometimes creates an atmosphere that is overly restrictive for those who are nothing more than curious. I have seen this first hand, and I often wish that those who choose to go without clothing would inter-mingle with those who keep their suits on. And, by all means stop treating the word 'textile' as some kind of negative thing.
Recently, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit the island of Mallorca in the Mediterranean Sea, and made it a point to spend a full day at Es Trenc beach near Campos on the island's south side. We had never been here before, but had heard about what a beautiful beach this was similar to those on Ibiza. After our driver dropped us off, we walked through different inter-connected beaches that lined this coast. First, there was a very calm beach that was occupied heavily by young families with small children. Then, a more standard beach similar to the primary section of Orient Beach. Next, was a gay section with primarily male couples, and then a large nude section which was comprised of people from all ages. There were single men, single women, families, couples, and so on. As we continued our walk, the nude section slowly faded and a more standard beach returned (although one in every four women went topless). There were no security guards watching everyone, nor warning signs regarding photography, or any type of rules that warned if you "crossed this line" the police will swoop in and fine you. It was refreshing watching the people who chose to wear swimsuits mix in comfortably with those who chose to go nude. Everyone was enjoying the day with or without apparel.
Here, my wife and I set up our beach umbrella and enjoyed a wonderful day under the sun. I couldn't help but compare this to Orient Beach and Club Orient. And, I must honestly say that as much as we have enjoyed all of Orient Beach in the past I wished at that moment it was more like this Spanish beach where everyone could do whatever best 'suited' them without all the rules and regulations. So, if Club Orient didn't return we would indeed return, but only if the new beach truly mirrored the clothing optional beaches of the French Riviera and the Balearic Islands. Either way, we will still be coming back to SXM for so may other reasons. Great response! Thanks! I wanted to correct what I posted: If Club Orient closed and the property sold to developers that built villas and beach bars similar to the other end of the beach then we would not return. The way it stands now is Club Orient controls the beach in front of the resort even though the resort is closed so it is fine with me to go and carry in and carry out my beach chair, umbrella and cooler.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#166266
07/20/2018 08:28 PM
07/20/2018 08:28 PM
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Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 286 Limerick,Pa.now Clermont, FL
ronandcarla
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 286
Limerick,Pa.now Clermont, FL
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For us we discovered SXM and Orient Beach by way of a cruise, then we would stay a week every Feb/Mar for about 7 years at Alamanda Resort located along Orient Beach, so along with the great food and some of the wonderful sights coming up and down the beach during the day it was a great vacation every year, but with that said, we are getting older and have found Aruba much more safer, cleaner, just about guaranteed great hot weather, so easy to get around, food is for us more than adequate and quite good and gambling is within walking distance up and down Palm Beach.
Probably the next and only times we will ever see SXM again will be way of RCCL Cruise stops.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166339
07/21/2018 08:14 PM
07/21/2018 08:14 PM
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 540 Maine USA
doctorj
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 540
Maine USA
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We have been back since the Hurricane in an effort to support the island. Some of our dearest friends have been customers of Club Orient. We met these people at Club O. We have well over 30 trips to Club Orient. We have been to several c/o resorts but feel that the people who work at Club O are now not only friends but part of our family in the Caribbean. There really is nothing close to Club O in our minds. Everyone may decide where to spend their time on this beautiful island. We will not envision this island without Club O. We will however continue trips until the Club is rebuilt and open. Please support St. Martin and visit to help all rebuild. We always put the countdown clock on sitting in the departure area.
carib cheers all,
doctorj
It's Five O'Clock Somewhere........
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#166350
07/21/2018 11:17 PM
07/21/2018 11:17 PM
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Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 192 Columbia, SC, USA
DandM29212
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 192
Columbia, SC, USA
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Fact is, for a lot of people, it isn't "IF" Club O weren't there - it isn't! And that loyal following for Club O and for the clothing optional opportunities elsewhere on occasion - many have moved on. In our post-Irma travel, we've run across MANY SXM refugees in Maui, Caymans, Jamaica, and sailing in the VI's. For many, the clothing optional aspect was the driving decision to go to SXM in the first place, and then to return year after year. Among them, we've found two clear groups.
First are those that said they're not there this year just because of Irma issues - no place to stay, airfares, lousy connections, etc., but that they had planned to go back in 1-3 years and see how it has recovered. Usually following that was a statement that they've enjoyed traveling elsewhere and not sure about SXM anymore. Then after that, it was often "If we can't "enjoy Orient", then what's to differentiate it from other islands?"
The other group was more definite. A common theme - Club O is what attracted them to the island cause of the people they met there. No Club O = no reason to return. Several said the same words - it was a "chapter in our lives. It's over. Time for another chapter." Couples Sans Souci - full occupancy because of the nude beach, several others on Jamaica - same. At Maui - several people went out of their way to meet us and talk about SXM on our second day there when I wore an "SXM Strong" t-shirt. Lots more refugees - loving their new chapters.
We loved our times in SXM, and we'll be back another time and see "how it fits" then. Meanwhile, we're enjoying the heck out of visiting other places and wondering if we tied ourselves down too much to SXM. If we did, it was the clothing optional atmosphere and so-minded people that drew us there.
If you do the math "by beach", of course, >95% of SXM visitors have always gone to SXM for textile vacations. On the other hand, there are many who became enamored with the island after visiting Club O on a cruise and "gettin nekkid"! Those people are largely moving on.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#167215
08/05/2018 07:39 AM
08/05/2018 07:39 AM
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Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 100 New York, USA
RobR
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 100
New York, USA
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IF Club Orient was NOT there and it was a French Beach with Clothing Optional section but no resort... Would you go to SXM? No.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SXMScubaman]
#167271
08/06/2018 03:51 PM
08/06/2018 03:51 PM
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Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 246 Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada
jaxon60
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 246
Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada
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There is always resorts in Jamaica and other islands that fill the co bill. I just want to say, having been to Jamaica, you cannot compare the C/O resorts there to Orient Bay and the Club O stretch. They are very different.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#167283
08/06/2018 08:30 PM
08/06/2018 08:30 PM
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 108 Florida
Kamehameha
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 108
Florida
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We tried CO for the first time in OB in 2017, cancelled our return this May, will be back next May. But i the meantime, we discovered a CO beach 1/2 mile north of a condo we own on Hutchinson Island, FL. And we never ever knew about it for 12 years!!! No Pedro's, no bars, but lovely and peaceful.
<a href="https://www.TickerFactory.com/"> <img border="0" src="https://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/d/4;10765;125/st/20180504/e/3+weeks+in+Aruba%21/k/38b6/event.png"></a>
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: Kamehameha]
#167285
08/06/2018 08:43 PM
08/06/2018 08:43 PM
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Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 387
Uksimonusa
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 387
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We tried CO for the first time in OB in 2017, cancelled our return this May, will be back next May. But i the meantime, we discovered a CO beach 1/2 mile north of a condo we own on Hutchinson Island, FL. And we never ever knew about it for 12 years!!! No Pedro's, no bars, but lovely and peaceful.
Blind Creek Beach, nice place
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: GaKaye]
#181662
01/23/2019 01:05 PM
01/23/2019 01:05 PM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 835 Harriston
megamania
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 835
Harriston
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I agree. We always visit Orient Beach,,,for the beach and variety of restaurants, etc. Clothing optional means nothing to us. I assume it will look much different when we visit next week, we fly out Saturday. But, having said that, I just cant imagine going to another island since discovering SXM in 2005. The cuisine, the beaches, all of it. And the friendly people we consistantlly run into. Cannot wait to return, this will be our first post Irma experience, and although things are slowly recovering, I am sure we will make the best of it. We always stay on the Dutch side. I still for whatever reason, do not feel 100 percent comfortable on the French Side,,,and I just can't tell you why. possibly because it isn't as familiar? Not sure, but we do travel over there a couple of times during our visit. I have yet to experience Harmony Nights,,I think because we usually travel earlier in January due to flights being cheaper out of Canada. This year we lucked out. 497.00 direct flight, later in the month, so getting my suitcase packed. Cannot wait.
Randy and Meg Young
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#181708
01/23/2019 05:26 PM
01/23/2019 05:26 PM
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Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 178 New Hampshire
Hdrdr911
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 178
New Hampshire
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This thread is 5 months old and although not outdated IMHO a new thread could have been started.Thanks for the BUMP! Not all that familiar with message board jargon but your welcome, I think. Cheers
If the phone doesn't ring .... it's me
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: PelicanPirate]
#181753
01/24/2019 09:14 AM
01/24/2019 09:14 AM
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Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 178 New Hampshire
Hdrdr911
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 178
New Hampshire
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The CO beach is more important than the/a CO resort. That said I would like to see the resort get there ducks lined up and rebuilt. Certainly agree that it would be great if Club O returned. We loved the convenience of staying at the Club however it left much to be desired in terms of guest service and amenities. The beds were awful. There were bright spots as well, some great employees, but there was a lot of room for improvement. Cheers.
If the phone doesn't ring .... it's me
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: Hdrdr911]
#181783
01/24/2019 12:31 PM
01/24/2019 12:31 PM
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Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 7,491 Vermont
sxmmartini
OP
Traveler
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OP
Traveler
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 7,491
Vermont
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The CO beach is more important than the/a CO resort. That said I would like to see the resort get there ducks lined up and rebuilt. Certainly agree that it would be great if Club O returned. We loved the convenience of staying at the Club however it left much to be desired in terms of guest service and amenities. The beds were awful. There were bright spots as well, some great employees, but there was a lot of room for improvement. Cheers. Everything will be new and improved! New beds, new furniture etc. I am so looking forward to the new and improved CO.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#181868
01/25/2019 12:24 PM
01/25/2019 12:24 PM
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Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 363 The Villages, FL
deputydog1157
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 363
The Villages, FL
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Sorry this is so long.
Unfortunately we never stayed at Club O and it took us 15 years to actually stay on the island as a visitor to the island after numerous cruise visits. If Club O rebuilds before we are too old or dead we will stay there.
We had planned to go September 9th through the 16th 2017 for our 39th anniversary but a beeotch named Irma changed our plans. We decided to tempt fate again this past September for our 40th anniversary and it worked out great. We stayed in a VRBO condo on Billy Folly Road right on the water (villa Carisma). We were a little tentative about exploring too much because we were unfamiliar with the roads so we stayed mainly around the immediate area of Pelican.
We did make a trip to Philipsburg one day but didn't stay too long. We went to Back Street to try to find some local things rather than the typical tourist stuff that is all from China etc. It was very hot and Barbara was getting disgusted that all of the shops seemed to have the same things so we cut it short.
Another trip we made was to Orient Beach. Not knowing the roads I reached out to Elaine (BillandElaine) for directions and she gave me perfect guidance. We had been to the non-Club O section on our previous cruise visits but never the "Nekkid Beach" before. This trip was to get out of our comfort zone, more so for my wife than I. Well suffice it to say it was a no ships-in-port day on Monday, September 10th. We arrived so early the chain across the lot was still up so we parked in the taxi area behind what used to be Pedro's and walked to the Club O section as the guys were just starting to set up a few chairs. About 5 minutes later 2 other couples showed up (one couple was DonnDe from this forum and his wife).
It took us a minute to set up the chairs and put our towels and bags down. Not wanting to belabor the ultimate fear/anxiety of being nude outside in a public setting for the first time in my 61 years I just stripped down and walked into the water. I looked back and saw the love of my life, who had never been topless much less naked in her 65 years in public, suddenly take her top off and walk into the water. The other couples had already removed their clothes and we sitting on their chairs by this point. We stayed in the water a few minutes and then Barb walked back to her chair and to my surprise she removed her bottoms before lying on her chair. That was the beginning of our newfound freedom and neither of us felt awkward. A huge part of the reason was that the other 2 couples we met that day made us feel so welcome that we didn't even care that we were naked. DonnDe and his wife along with the other couple (real names not mentioned as I don't have their permission) were the epitome of the acceptance that we had read about on numerous blogs/articles about the non-judgmentalness of naturists. We stayed there a few hours until my fair Irish-heritage skin was getting more sun than I needed. As we were leaving and headed back to our condo Barb turned to me and said she had a great time and was shocked that after a few minutes she didn't care about being nude and actually forgot that she was. She said she wanted to make a return trip on Wednesday.
Wednesday came but the weather was rainy so we decided against going. Thursday came and the weather was better but not perfect. Thinking we'd have to cancel again I was afraid we wouldn't be able to have a return visit. Barbara looked at me and said "Let's have some breakfast and head out to Orient Beach." We ate something at the condo and we got ready to go to OB. I knew Barbara was OK with the idea of being naked on the beach because as she was getting dressed she put on just a t-shirt and gym shorts. I asked her if she was going to put her bathing suit on to which she replied. "Nope, not needed."
Enroute to the beach the skies were overcast but we saw spots of blue here and there. We arrived at the beach and parked behind the Perch Lite. When we arrived DonnDe, his wife, the other couple and few others had gathered under the covering because it had rained a few minutes earlier. DonnDe's wife had made some guacamole dip, which by the was fantastic, and offered some to all as we killed a few minutes waiting for the weather to cooperate. Ten minutes and a Presidente later, the ski was blue and chairs were being set up. Once we got settled in our chairs it was as if these folks were lifelong friends. We had numerous conversations and then others joined in. We had another couple from Florida take chairs next to us and there was a gentleman that was there also. Most of the folks had been at Club O and even though the description was that the resort was "rustic" there was nothing but positive reviews. We hated to leave but had made late lunch plans at the Buccaneer Beach Bar.
Barbara said she now sees that the convenience of the Club O resort could make for a great vacation because you could spend a week on vacation and only have to pack a carry on bag! The same outfit worn from home to the resort would be the same outfit worn home. No other clothing needed unless going off property. I hope they rebuild soon, we'd like to check a week at Club O off our bucket list.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: deputydog1157]
#181871
01/25/2019 12:37 PM
01/25/2019 12:37 PM
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Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,081 Clearwater, FL
Biturbo
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,081
Clearwater, FL
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Great story. I hope you get to enjoy the experience and convenience of staying at Club Orient. It truly was a special place to us. Thanks.
I'm going where the weather suits my clothes.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: JimCandD]
#181928
01/26/2019 01:09 PM
01/26/2019 01:09 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,729 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,729
Central Florida!
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Club O was always more than just the buildings. It was always about the people and the beach. I do hope they are able to rebuild...
Carol Hill
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#181931
01/26/2019 01:54 PM
01/26/2019 01:54 PM
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Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 933
SammyM
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 933
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I think we're all in agreement regarding the importance of rebuilding Club O. But, in reality it sounds like it's going to take a while. After Irma I know there were folks who figured they'd return in the spring of 2019 after everything was wiped out on that fateful September day. I wasn't so sure based on how things work on the French side of SXM. But, whatever. As long as it comes back 'new and improved' one day that's the important thing. However, I would very much like to see Papagayo's rebuilt soon and expanded. I realize that there wouldn't be the steady flow of people around because the cabins aren't there (nor is Alamanda, etc.), but bringing back Papagayo's first would have many, many benefits.
But, it would need to be expanded from just a clothing optional sit down restaurant to something more. A large outdoor patio with a bar would be a must, and for those wanting to grab a bite inside the restaurant could be rebuilt with both clothing-optional and textile sides. Visitors to Orient Beach from cruise ships, etc. would be curious and many would give a place like this a try. Chair and umbrella rentals could the be added (Cedric?) and even a small gift shop. Then, when the resort returns some day more people will be familiar with the area and possibly consider staying here. The need to keep this area relevant and attractive to future generations could be enhanced by this. Heck, if they even wanted to change the name from 'Papagayo's' to something like the 'Club Orient Bar & Grille' I'd be okay with that!
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#181935
01/26/2019 03:17 PM
01/26/2019 03:17 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,729 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,729
Central Florida!
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Sammy-Sorry, no, there will not be a clothing optional and textile side at any future rebuilt Club O. Club O has ALWAYS been clothing OPTIONAL, which means, OPTIONAL. You don't have to wear clothes. That's what it means.
Carol Hill
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#181946
01/26/2019 04:38 PM
01/26/2019 04:38 PM
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,526 Ohio
ruralcarrier
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,526
Ohio
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Why does the term "textiles" continue to be used? Same with the term "nudies".
In an earlier post you stated: "clothing-optional and textile sides."
As Carol stated, clothing optional is clothing optional. Why is the term "textiles" ok for some? How about "textile optional" if you want to continue to use it?
J.D.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#181953
01/26/2019 05:03 PM
01/26/2019 05:03 PM
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Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,081 Clearwater, FL
Biturbo
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,081
Clearwater, FL
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I agree with Carol. I don't like the idea of a section where one couldn't go unless they were "clad". The rest of the island is like that, and as a true naturist's resort, it's what set Club Orient apart. As far as changing the name, it isn't Papagayo's, it's simply Papagayo. But, thanks for your input.
I'm going where the weather suits my clothes.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#181968
01/26/2019 06:50 PM
01/26/2019 06:50 PM
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Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 387
Uksimonusa
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 387
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Oh, I agree Carol. Very familiar with c/o approach! Just trying to think of anyone or any family that would prefer a 'textiled' approach. Although Papagayo's was always fairly crowded when we went there in the past, there's no question that some visitors stayed away because they didn't want to have lunch sitting at a table next to naked people. Of course, those people can eat and drink at places like Kontiki, Kakao, etc. Just trying to think of ways to bring the southern end of Orient Beach back to life. Whatever the plan, getting Papagayo's fixed and up-and-running again would be a real positive step. We'll be there in early March and I plan to walk through the 'ruins' of this place and try not to get too sad. The South end of Orient Beach is already back to life and has been since the Perch Lite opened in November 17!
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#182022
01/27/2019 11:33 AM
01/27/2019 11:33 AM
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Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 178 New Hampshire
Hdrdr911
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 178
New Hampshire
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I think we're all in agreement regarding the importance of rebuilding Club O. But, in reality it sounds like it's going to take a while. After Irma I know there were folks who figured they'd return in the spring of 2019 after everything was wiped out on that fateful September day. I wasn't so sure based on how things work on the French side of SXM. But, whatever. As long as it comes back 'new and improved' one day that's the important thing. However, I would very much like to see Papagayo's rebuilt soon and expanded. I realize that there wouldn't be the steady flow of people around because the cabins aren't there (nor is Alamanda, etc.), but bringing back Papagayo's first would have many, many benefits.
But, it would need to be expanded from just a clothing optional sit down restaurant to something more. A large outdoor patio with a bar would be a must, and for those wanting to grab a bite inside the restaurant could be rebuilt with both clothing-optional and textile sides. Visitors to Orient Beach from cruise ships, etc. would be curious and many would give a place like this a try. Chair and umbrella rentals could the be added (Cedric?) and even a small gift shop. Then, when the resort returns some day more people will be familiar with the area and possibly consider staying here. The need to keep this area relevant and attractive to future generations could be enhanced by this. Heck, if they even wanted to change the name from 'Papagayo's' to something like the 'Club Orient Bar & Grille' I'd be okay with that! Points are well taken but " a textile side " in the restuarant? Really ? Club O is a C/O resort. You are either comfortable with that or you can take advantage of the textile facilities which comprise the majority of the island. Cheers
If the phone doesn't ring .... it's me
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: SammyM]
#182040
01/27/2019 03:33 PM
01/27/2019 03:33 PM
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Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 658 Maine
SXMbeacher
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 658
Maine
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It was also mentioned in one of the early post Irma news letters from Club O, that Papagayo would not be rebuilt until they had rental units up and running to support it.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#182108
01/28/2019 12:47 PM
01/28/2019 12:47 PM
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Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 1 kcmo
kcbeach
Member
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Member
Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 1
kcmo
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I've read through a lot of the responses. Quick recap= "Yes we'd go back, St. Martin is SO wonderful; We're not CO'ers, so yes we'd go back; Great food, shopping, multicultural, great beaches, so yes we'd go back." In my opinion, there are LOTS of great beaches in the Caribbean, there are LOTS of different cultures in the Caribbean. There is also LOTS of shopping in the Caribbean. The one differentiator is St. Martin is the premiere CO destination in terms of number of beaches and accepting attitudes. If it weren't for that I would likely not return year after year, I would sample other islands. Now technically, the original post asked about Club Orient. I never chosen to stay there (overpriced, underly luxurious) but it will remain to be seen that IF Club Orient stays away, whether the prevailing attitudes on the island will change towards CO tourism. I always felt, Club Orient was the "leader" and most visible advocate for CO'ers. Without Club O, hopefully SXM will not discount the THOUSANDS of CO tourists who stay in timeshares and villas all over the island, many of whom visit beaches other than the one end of Orient.
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Re: If Club Orient was NOT there...
[Re: sxmmartini]
#182938
02/03/2019 06:24 PM
02/03/2019 06:24 PM
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Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 104 Edison, NJ
Allison731
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 104
Edison, NJ
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Of course I’d go, as we’re not basing the trip around the resort.
Not to mention, all I do naked is shower lol
Last edited by Allison731; 02/03/2019 06:25 PM.
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