Just returned from a quick trip to SXM. First time back since Irma. Long time (1987) SXM visitor. Flew without any problems from Miami direct. Departure area and immigration pretty congested but hey, it was air conditioned after months of being in a tent I understand. Great flight times and prices, both over and back. Found the island to be pretty much as expected storm damage-wise. Some hotels/properties quickly reopened, others struggling probably due to insurance/funds issues. I was surprised to see Alegria under re-construction with lots of activity. Heard the property re-configuring rooms but little more in terms of what property name it will re-open by. Being a long time first Millenium, then Caravanserai, then Alegria time-share owner, we have seen the property "rise and fall" and have lived the frustrations associated with it. Initially we were owners at Mullet Bay. That was maybe three hurricanes ago? The complex surrounding Alegria is pretty much desolate with the exception of Sunset Beach Bar taking over the former Bliss property. The series of new SSBB structures is not the most pleasant but the new clientele of cruise ship visitors love the vast opportunities for souvenirs and drinks I'm sure. Sadly the Chinese grocery store restaurant and the small restaurant to the north are both closed. Used to love running over to pick up a $2 Amstel Bright. Missed Boca Marina, Cheri's for lobster bisque, Pizza Pasta, and a blown-away French Croissant stop near Sandy Ground...all the result of Irma. Did have a great hot dog from Rosie's place on Mullet Beach and a great sandwich at the newly reopened Tortuga Cafe at Royal Islander. Incidentally Royal Islander has done a fabulous job of upgrading their outdoors area post Irma. Maho area still pretty rough and under re-construction. We stayed at Beachside Villas for the first time and loved the property and the wonderful staff. Rented our car from Winston, owner of blythetourcarrental@hotmail.com. Been renting vehicles from Winston Blythe for as long as we have been coming to St Maarten and he is the BEST! Cars are in excellent condition and he personally takes great care in meeting your needs for drop off and pick up.Noticed how brown the vegetation was on the hills and through out the island as we drove. Saw some things and places you never saw before the hurricane. Again, thanks to Irma. Got to Zee Best and the Greenhouse as well as Buccaneer for Happy Hour. Some places never change...and that is a good thing!
All in all, it was great returning to St Maarten...a place that holds tons of wonderful family memories and continues to be an island inhabited by some of the nicest, most friendly people on earth. Until next time...

Thanks for the report. I was also surprised to see how brown the island was.

Thank you for sharing.

A great report! Love Beachside Villas too. Have not seen you in a while but glad you were able to have a lovely return visit.

Thanks for the report! Glad you enjoyed your stay and enjoyed Beachside!!