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Re: Trip Planning Help Vac 2021
[Re: avp1234]
#205180
09/22/2019 07:12 PM
09/22/2019 07:12 PM
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 412 Michigan
cacapasa
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 412
Michigan
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If you have visited several times, then the very first thing you must decide is whether you wish to stay on the Dutch side, Sint Maarten, or the French side Saint-Martin. Once you have made that decision, then find someone familiar with THAT side of the island.
The mistake we made the first time we went was to take our TA's word for it that we "wouldn't like the French side." She knew nothing about it; she just substituted her own tastes for ours. Well, that was in 1995 and we have been back almost every year since then--on the French side.
Familiarize yourself with what each side offers and then, only then, after you decide which side you prefer look for a TA who is familiar with what is available for that side. That's my advice. Nonetheless, wherever you stay, consider that you're still not much of a drive away from the other side.
However, you should also be aware that the French side seems to be recovering from Hurricane Irma at a slower pace than the Dutch side, so bear that in mind. The town of Grand Case, the "culinary capital of the Caribbean," for example, is still nowhere near what it was pre-storm. So be sure any TA you select is up-to-date on SXM as it is and not on what it was. Of course, if you are not planning to visit for a year or more then all is subject to change.
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Re: Trip Planning Help Vac 2021
[Re: avp1234]
#205191
09/22/2019 09:44 PM
09/22/2019 09:44 PM
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Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 4,295 Vancouver, WA
Todd
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 4,295
Vancouver, WA
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It really does come down to what "your " type of vacation you are looking for.
I prefer the Isle seat
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Re: Trip Planning Help Vac 2021
[Re: avp1234]
#205193
09/22/2019 10:59 PM
09/22/2019 10:59 PM
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,881
Bahston
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,881
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If you're interested in the Orient area on the French side then try Jim Ruos at Carribean Island Travel Service. Jim has been specializing in the Orient area for over 30 years, but he may also have the familiarity with Anguilla which you're looking for. http://www.info-res.com/cits/ It costs nothing to make a phone call and ask. 800-476-5849
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Re: Trip Planning Help Vac 2021
[Re: avp1234]
#205428
09/25/2019 03:18 PM
09/25/2019 03:18 PM
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Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 144
Tammy
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 144
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I second that. We've done AI at the Sonesta on two occasions and on both we had only one dinner on property (arrival night), and no lunches.
We did have breakfast daily but mostly felt trapped as the food though varied choices felt monotonous. Food quality was poor. Service sucked, sometimes this happens at an AI as many guests don't tip so employees feel there is no incentive to do well.
Too many wonderful choices all over the island, AI nooo.
Be the person your dog thinks you are 💫
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Re: Trip Planning Help Vac 2021
[Re: Tammy]
#205432
09/25/2019 03:51 PM
09/25/2019 03:51 PM
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Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,479 Central Florida!
Carol_Hill
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,479
Central Florida!
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The reviews from the Sonesta have NOT been good since they reopened after Irma. I think the original poster was possibly talking about Secrets though, which should be a whole different situation, much higher class. BUT I concur that in general, a/I in SXM is not a good idea.
Carol Hill
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Re: Trip Planning Help Vac 2021
[Re: avp1234]
#205437
09/25/2019 04:58 PM
09/25/2019 04:58 PM
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 833 Harriston
megamania
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 833
Harriston
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if you are counting on the AI at Anse Marcel in first part of 2020..Its Secrets,,and it will not be open until late 2020 at the earliest from what I have read and heard. If you like nice beaches,,,simpson bay beach on the dutch side is stunning,,,with so many options nearby to eat....just saying, if you happened to want to try Dutch side. Good luck with your planning and have a great time.
Randy and Meg Young
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