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Possible Recommendations #226788
05/19/2020 04:40 PM
05/19/2020 04:40 PM
Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 29
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SPF29inSXM Offline OP
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My wife and I were hoping to spend our 15 year anniversary in SXM, but it seems unlikely to take place. We were scheduled to be on the island from 8/9 to 8/20. So I am looking for advice on places to possibly travel to in Florida or somewhere “easy” to fly to from Providence/Boston in the US. Looking for some type of nudist accommodations in regards to tanning. Near/on beach preferred along with pool/hot tub.

Please think of any places that will be best suited for reduced risk of Covid-19. Clean and spacious seem to be a priority for us at this point. Don’t need big crowds.

SXM Sponsors
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #226789
05/19/2020 05:35 PM
05/19/2020 05:35 PM
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Posts: 1,225
Middle Tennessee
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TravelHat Offline
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Check out Couples San Souci in Jamaica. Small resort with lots of space. Private nude area with pool, beach and hot tub with food and beverage available poolside. Great place for anniversary stay. All couples and no kids.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #226795
05/19/2020 10:19 PM
05/19/2020 10:19 PM
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zeus1963 Offline
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We are scheduled August 8 through 22nd. I still think we will be able to visit by then.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #226807
05/20/2020 09:42 AM
05/20/2020 09:42 AM
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 656
Maine
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MCO, Orlando Fla. is an easy fly, and although i have never stayed there, Cypress Cove Resort gets high marks and mostly fits your bill. There is a small beach, but is on a lake. You still may make Aug. but who knows at this point?



Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #226871
05/20/2020 09:54 PM
05/20/2020 09:54 PM
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Posts: 29
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SPF29inSXM Offline OP
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Great to hear some optimism towards our August trip. I haven’t cancelled our flight and won’t until I absolutely know it isn’t going to happen. I’ve read some good things about Cypress Cove but I’d rather be on SXM if at all possible.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #226879
05/21/2020 06:57 AM
05/21/2020 06:57 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 601
PA
ChuckG Offline
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Here's another plug for Cypress Cove which is in the process of slowly reopening. They seem to be taking great precautions for Covid. We stay there all winter and love it. Feel free to PM me with any questions


Chuck and Joni
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: ChuckG] #226899
05/21/2020 09:39 AM
05/21/2020 09:39 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,472
Central Florida!
Carol_Hill Offline
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Chuck--are you at Cypress Cove now or were you, this winter?


Carol Hill
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: Carol_Hill] #226956
05/22/2020 12:38 PM
05/22/2020 12:38 PM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 601
PA
ChuckG Offline
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Carol- We were there for the winter, left early though (3/24). I should add that am not sure if the hotel is open yet or not. They only reopened for full member day visitors or camping a week or so ago. Here is the latest status (Update/) :

Q: Are you open to everyone wishing to visit Cypress Cove?

A: Currently, we are only open to members of Cypress Cove for day visits and camping. This includes established but also NEW members. For more information about membership please visit here.

Q: Are you accepting new reservations for the Villas?

A: Only existing villa reservations, made prior to the pandemic, will be honored provided the guest has not traveled internationally or traveled from a location identified as a hotspot. Watch this page for more information on villa re-openings and availability.

Q: Can I make a reservation for a few months from now?

A: Currently, we cannot make new reservations due to the unknown timeframe of the phased reopening of the state of Florida. Please check back here for up to date information. We will also share information on our social media channels.

Q: Are the amenities open?

A: The majority of our resort-style amenities are open. Our pools are open in addition to our hot tubs. Cheeks Bar & Grill is open for patio dining and to-go orders. If you are a resident or are camping at Cypress Cove delivery is also an option. All of our sports courts are open and lake activities are available. We have paddleboards, paddleboats, canoes & kayaks. Lakeside Restaurant & Body Works Gym is still closed.

C

Last edited by ChuckG; 05/22/2020 12:44 PM.

Chuck and Joni
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: ChuckG] #226957
05/22/2020 12:52 PM
05/22/2020 12:52 PM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,472
Central Florida!
Carol_Hill Offline
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Thanks for the info.


Carol Hill
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: TravelHat] #229061
06/30/2020 08:25 PM
06/30/2020 08:25 PM
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Posts: 29
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SPF29inSXM Offline OP
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Why CSS over CTI or other locations? I’ve read the beach is nice and sunsets are beautiful. How long is an optimal stay at the resort? We typically hit up 3-5 beaches on trips to SXM and don’t get bored so going back to a resort and sitting on the same beach hasn’t been something we’ve done in 10+ years. Any thoughts on the gym?

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229063
06/30/2020 10:40 PM
06/30/2020 10:40 PM
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 1,225
Middle Tennessee
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TravelHat Offline
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CTI feels more like a hotel resort where CSS has more character and rooms are different. The AN at CTI is restricted to the island that has no beach just a pool. Some days closed because the boat back and forth is not running due to choppy seas. They have trading days so if you stay at one you can go over to the other for the day. Lots of folks coming over to CSS but not many the other way.
We have stayed anywhere from 5 nights to 10. I think 8 is perfect as the first day is usually just drinks and dinner with getting there after 2pm. The last day is usually breakfast maybe a swim then off to airport.
Once you get there and get into the vibe you won’t want to leave to go anywhere. There are some excursions that the resort provides. We did a couple years ago but no interest now.
The gym is more than basic but not club like.. cardio, weights and some stretching areas. There are yoga classes and some water aerobics in the mineral pool. You can check and see if there is a guest instructor coming in for your time.
There are some good Facebook groups for the resort that are very informative on the resort as well as the AN aspect.
Try Couples San Souci Fans it’s a closed group but easily accessible

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: TravelHat] #229086
07/01/2020 10:41 AM
07/01/2020 10:41 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,472
Central Florida!
Carol_Hill Offline
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Having visited Couples Tower Isle for the day, I would agree with your assessment, TravelHat. I personally would not book a vacation there, if I was looking for an a/n experience. The island is small, no beach, very limited food options, and issues with getting the boat back and forth. We have never been to Couples San Souci, in good part because I have bad knees and could not deal with all the stairs there.

Wishing for things that don't exist any more, Grand Lido Braco was the BEST!!


Carol Hill
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: Carol_Hill] #229165
07/01/2020 07:36 PM
07/01/2020 07:36 PM
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 1,225
Middle Tennessee
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TravelHat Offline
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If you really wanted to try it you could be in building A or B. No stairs to both beaches 3 restaurants and multiple bars. If you wanted to go up top they provide transportation up and back. Based on your recent villa and BSV reports you wouldn’t find that degree of stayputness.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: TravelHat] #229169
07/01/2020 08:18 PM
07/01/2020 08:18 PM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,472
Central Florida!
Carol_Hill Offline
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Carol_Hill  Offline
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sorry "stayputness"??


Carol Hill
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229189
07/02/2020 10:53 AM
07/02/2020 10:53 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,116
missouri
Cathyg Offline
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We have been to Club Orient 15 times....and to Jamaica 24 times...and to Mexico 4 times. If you are looking for a St. Martin replacement...I can tell you very honestly...there is not one.

An all inclusive resort has a completely different feel from a place like SXM. I would ask what is your top priority? What are you looking for?

Couples resorts are a good brand. We have stayed at CTI, CSS and we have toured Couples Negril. Each one is similar yet different. Each offers different amenities.

We went to Grand Lido Braco for 11 years...we loved the place and unfortunately it closed and has reopened as a family resort. CSS is the most similar to Braco...yet it is different.

We always book building A or B. They are the closest to Sunset Beach which has a nude beach, pool, hot tub, bar and grill. It is a short walk ..maybe a block from A and B to SSB. You must be clothed to go from the building to SSB and once you arrive SSB you must remove all clothing. You must also be a couple. The beach is not the best...but it is also not the worst. The white river runs into the Caribbean sea right in front of SSB so beach fluctuates. There are plenty of chairs and palapas.

The pool is very nice and there are plenty of chairs and umbrellas around the pool. A buffet lunch is served at the pool grill everyday.

Buildings A and B have been newly renovated and are beautiful. They are spacious, with a king bed, sofa, huge walk in shower bar, small frig and nice balcony. The views are beautiful. The main pool, main beach, and Caribbean sea are right behind the balconies. Nearby is the main bar and two restaurants.

We have found in 24 trips to Jamaica...that all inclusive food is food. There is not a lot of difference in one resort to another. It cannot compare to food in Grand Case...but it is decent food and we always gain weight.

We have always had good service no matter where we have stayed.

I will be happy to answer specific questions.

Jamaica opened back up for tourism July 1. They do require a covid 19 test within 72 hours of arriving...or they will test you when you arrive. The rules change everyday so I would check out the Jamaica sight before making a decision to travel.


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Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: TravelHat] #229190
07/02/2020 10:54 AM
07/02/2020 10:54 AM
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Posts: 29
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SPF29inSXM Offline OP
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Alright so CSS sounds like a solid option. How about the drive from airport to resort? From my experience 13 years ago or so with Sandals it was a haul to Ocho with a bathroom break about half way. Is that still the case? How late can you stay at the beach/pool a/n? What about late night snacks? After 11pm looking for a burger/wrap, is that an option? Any swim up bars open late? Does the resort have river tubing excursions? We’ve done it before but I can’t remember which island.

I still wish SXM would be an option, but it just feels very unlikely at this point. Even if it is I’m beginning to think safety will be concern if people aren’t able to get back to work. So AI might be better this time around.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229194
07/02/2020 11:25 AM
07/02/2020 11:25 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,116
missouri
Cathyg Offline
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missouri
It is about a 90 minute ride from the airport to the resort. Usually ...halfway the bus does stop.

You can stay at the pool or beach all night if you want to...but the pool bar at SSB closes at 5. SSB opens to ALL GUESTS at 5 because it has the best sunset views. You can remain nude...but others will be allowed to come and might be dressed. It is not an issue for me...but I want you to be aware of it. The main pool swim up bar also closes at 5.

Water sports are located at the main beach. I am not sure of everything they offer but none will be nude.

There is a private company that does a very nice raft ride down the white river with a wonderful lunch. There is a fee.

Restaurants are open until 9:30. Room service is open until 10:30 and is included.

https://couples.com/resorts/sans-souci
this web sight will be very helpful for you
and david@allthewaytravel.com is my travel agent for Jamaica.

There are 4 swimming pools on the property, 3 beaches, 4 restaurants and 6 bars.

The restaurants are
PALAZZINA which is open for breakfast lunch and dinner but requires reservations for dinner.
BEACH GRILL& BELLA VISTA open for lunch and dinner.
CASANOVA for dinner reservations required.
SUNSET BEACH GRILL lunch only at SSB.

The 6 bars are
2 pool bars
Beach bar on the main beach
Palazzina bar
Balloon piano bar
Martini bar


We have a vacation webpage https://www.sandcvacations.com/
Go to the visiting the world Gallery and you will see several Galleries from CSS

Last edited by Cathyg; 07/02/2020 02:59 PM.

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Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: Cathyg] #229226
07/02/2020 06:28 PM
07/02/2020 06:28 PM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 250
Toronto, Ontario
Kevin_B Offline
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You really nailed it, Cathy. Your description of both CSS ans SSB was spot on. It was your guidance to us a few years ago that convinced us to go to CSS. Hope the OP takes your comments to heart and enjoys the resort like we did. Cheers


Kevin
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229228
07/02/2020 07:04 PM
07/02/2020 07:04 PM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,116
missouri
Cathyg Offline
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Thank you Kevin...can you believe we met you 20 years ago in SXM and then again at Braco and yet again at CSS? You cannot keep a good nudist from finding a place to vacation...lol


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Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229229
07/02/2020 08:34 PM
07/02/2020 08:34 PM
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Middle Tennessee
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TravelHat Offline
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The beach grille has late night snacks from 11pm to 6am.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229230
07/02/2020 08:38 PM
07/02/2020 08:38 PM
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SPF29inSXM Offline OP
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Wow. That was very informative and it’s definitely making us reconsider our plans to go to SXM. I completely understand that these types of vacations are going to be different. My wife and I usually go to nude beaches in SXM(yes I know that Orient is the only one) but we go to Baie Rouge, Cupecoy, Pinel(backside), Petite Caye and Happy Bay.

What about entertainment? DJ club? Performers?

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229232
07/02/2020 08:55 PM
07/02/2020 08:55 PM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,116
missouri
Cathyg Offline
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There is a piano bar.

The starlight gala is on Friday. It is a buffet on the lawn...very beautifully done...and there will be entertainment on the stage.

Jamaican night is on Tuesday. It too is a buffet on the lawn with entertainment on the stage.

The bella Vista has a lovely Jamaican trio that performs nightly during dinner.

Casanova Restaurant also has a pianist during dinner.

There are entertainers throughout the resort...Violinist, Flutists.


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Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229240
07/03/2020 08:54 AM
07/03/2020 08:54 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 82,472
Central Florida!
Carol_Hill Offline
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At this point, I have to assume that you have ruled out Florida. NOT a good time to come here and possibly you would have to quarantine for 14 days upon return. Not sure which states that applies to.

With regard to an all inclusive vacation in general, they are much different than a trip to SXM. We actually haven't done an a/I for quite a while. There definitely is a place for them though. Other than stuff like massages, pictures, that kind of stuff, you shouldn't need to pay for anything once you arrive and that is very nice. It's also nice to be able to drink whatever you want and stumble back 'home', or try a drink that you have never tried before, confident that you didn't spend $10 on a drink that you end up hating! smile The food is NOT going to be as good as in SXM and you will probably have to settle for buffet for at least one meal per day. A/I's have been some of the most relaxing vacations we've ever had and most of the time when we went to Jamaica, we never left the resort.

There are a couple of a/i's in Mexico that have nude beaches, but I personally am not familiar with them at all. As of now, I THINK that the Mexico resorts are not open because of Corona, but I have not been following it. If you are focusing on Jamaica, I would do some serious research on what's happening there in terms of troubles after the country has opened to Americans. And with the continuing surge in the US, it is possible that some islands will close back down to accepting Americans.

And, most of all, best wishes on your anniversary! I hope you are able to go somewhere GREAT and enjoy it. We celebrated our 40th anniversary at a villa in SXM last June. This June, our anniversary trip to SXM was cancelled due to Corona. While I HATE that this year's trip was cancelled, I am grateful that we were able to celebrate the big one last year in SXM.


Carol Hill
Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229246
07/03/2020 10:07 AM
07/03/2020 10:07 AM
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,116
missouri
Cathyg Offline
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I belong to a few Couples groups on face book and presently at CSS there are 22 visitors. They opened July 1. I would indeed recommend looking at the Jamaican web sight for up to date travel information as it seems to change daily. As of this morning....travelers who have had the covid test 72 hours before arriving in Jamaica are not being tested at the airport...however...folks arriving from hot spot states are being tested. It sounds confusing to me. Those who test positive will be sent to a Government quarantine at the expense of the positive person. That sounds scary. https://www.visitjamaica.com/?fbclid=IwAR3wLyWLc3wJ5Sxan0XKq60xo-py4m5594t-XTRuPUdWwCBk06Wmqinf7BA

Steve and I have been to almost every resort in Mexico and Jamaica that offers c/o or nude beach facilities. Of all of them....couples San Souci is our favorite. It is not...nor will it ever be...St. Martin....But if St. Martin is not an option...it is a very nice option. It will not be a perfect fit for everyone. It is not a perfect fit for me...but it is very nice.

I am booked for a road trip to New England in September. I will not go if I am required to quarantine and right now...things are not looking good for me. I can cancel up to 2 weeks before the trip and get all of my deposits back for the Bed and Breakfasts we have booked.

I am also booked on a Tauck Antarctica expedition in December. Again...things are not looking good for me. I will not cancel...I will wait for Tauck to pull the plug because I don't want to lose my money. But I can wait....I am not in a rush to cancel.

I was on a regent cruise in February and March. One of our ports closed because of covid 19. The entire time we were sailing...we kept praying we could get back home. It is very possible that you could be detained at your expense in a foreign country if flights are cancelled. You have to ask yourself...is the trip worth this possibility and can I afford it.

Things are so uncertain regarding travel right now. I don't think at this particular time...I would take the risk. I hope things improve for the USA...but I have doubts that it will happen.

Last edited by Cathyg; 07/03/2020 10:16 AM.

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Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229777
07/13/2020 10:56 AM
07/13/2020 10:56 AM
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Posts: 29
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SPF29inSXM Offline OP
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So we booked CSS for August 10th-20th and are looking forward to getting back to Jamaica. Just didn’t feel like August was going to work out for SXM with the delays in opening the airport and we decided it would be nice to change things up having spent 10+ vacations going to SXM. Hopefully things will workout. Had no problems canceling and getting refunds of miles and money with American Airlines or Simpson Bay Marina.

Does anyone know if CSS has any trails that a person could run on? I’ve been running pretty exclusively over the new bridge in SXM when on vacation and don’t mind the heat and being outside. I’d prefer not to be in the gym with a mask if they are required.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: SPF29inSXM] #229783
07/13/2020 12:05 PM
07/13/2020 12:05 PM
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Posts: 480
Northern California
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thesimpsons Offline
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There are some small roads within the resort that could be utilized for running.

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: Carol_Hill] #229889
07/15/2020 02:07 PM
07/15/2020 02:07 PM
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 39
Road Town
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Road Town
Originally Posted by Carol_Hill
sorry "stayputness"??


We seriously need some Like and Love emojis for some of the posts!

Re: Possible Recommendations [Re: BVIslander] #229918
07/15/2020 11:53 PM
07/15/2020 11:53 PM
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Middle Tennessee
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