SXM vacation 2/16-2/23

After an exhausting trip to New Orleans to watch our Ravens win the Super Bowl, it was time for a little beach relaxation. 2 couples making a return trip. We fall into a seemingly boring routine, but it is great.

Flights- We drive to Philly for the nonstop flights on USAIRWAYS. A little late going down, a little early returning. Full flights, but no problems.

Car from Unity, phone from Sharon.

Resort- Simpson Bay, 2BR on the top floor of the Marina Building. For all the negative talk that seems to be heard about the resort, I must say everything was great. The people were very friendly. We love the location, view and spaciousness of our unit. The beach bar and pool bar staff treated us royally. The staff has heard all the same rumors that have been talked about on this forum and they are of the attitude that they will believe it when they see it.

Breakfast- Our favorite spot is Zee Best and we had breakfast there several times. Also tried Bon Appetit and the Yacht Club to watch the bridge opening. Food and service good everywhere.

Beaches- Went twice to Friar’s Bay, our favorite beach. Nice cushioned chairs, spaced nicely apart, spectacular view and great food. Also spent a beautiful day at Galleon. The other days we hung out at the beach or pool at Simpson Bay. Didn’t seem to be as crowded as in past years.

Dinners- Always enjoy our first night at Buccaneer Beach Bar and went one other night as well. They seem to be doing a good business and the service was very good. Fun time at Toppers, dinner was good and enjoyed the music. Tried Lee’s for the first time, good but not great. I would go back again. Pineapple Pete’s good as always. Made reservations for Peg Leg’s on Wednesday night. I will never figure this place out. Our food was good and we had a fun time. The service is always unorganized at best. We waited maybe 15 minutes for our table. We had no less than 5 different people serve us. They were out of one of the appetizers but didn’t let us know until the other appetizers were delivered, so too late to order another. Out of tonic water, out of ginger ale, tried to serve our neighbor’s bottle of wine to us, so ordering drinks was a bit of a circus. We were in no hurry and don’t get upset about the little things, so we laughed with the staff and enjoyed ourselves. The setting is great and with a little refinement, this place could be great. We didn’t make the effort to head over to Grand Case.

Although it has been beaten to death on this forum, I have to comment on tipping/service charges. Some added 15%, some none, one added 10% and Friar’s bill said “service non compris”. Our group is on vacation to relax and enjoy ourselves. If anything, we tend to over tip, especially if the waiter makes the effort to have a few laughs. They don’t need to be perfect for us, just act like they care. At Zee Best they always recognize that we come several times a week and they acknowledge their appreciation. People on this forum can say otherwise, but I find the whole tipping thing far too confusing.

Always a friendly group at the Hollywood Casino in the evenings.

The weather was cooler than normal and also breezy. I like it this way, but for those that like it hot, you might have been disappointed. The water was too stirred up and unclear for snorkeling.

We had the opportunity to go to Virgin Gorda last June and then return again to St. Maarten for this trip. Different vacations, but both memorable. I’d return to either in a heartbeat. Looking forward to our return to St. Maarten next February.