Hey all. It's been a minute since I've posted a report. For the noobees who don't know me, my family is from St. Martin going back generations. It's home to me as much as New Jersey is (where I was raised). This has been a difficult year - xmas marked my 5th trip to the island due to various family illnesses and the passing of my mom and uncle. But I had my family with me and my goal was to make this holiday a happy one for the kiddo and rebuild happy memories in my parent's house.

We did a few new (to us) things this trip:
Friars Bay Beach Club. I know I know, after 40+ years of visiting the island we finally made it over to the other side of friars for the day. I loved the food and drinks, didn't love all the rocks on that side of the beach. But once you got in the water, it was great.

Les Temps Ceries in Grand Case. So, we tried to go to Anse Marcel, and then to Rainbow but they were all booked up (we went the day before to try and book). LTC had space and because we booked for 10:30 am we got a front row seat. I must say - I will probably make this my go to spot in GC. Excellent drinks (that rum punch sneaks up on you), great food, awesome service.

Got veggies/goods from Golden Grove Farm. This farm in my parental village (Colombier) is worth a visit on Saturdays for the views, the fresh produce and eggs, and to support local agriculture!

A staple:
La Playa. I'm not a fan of Orient - Palm Beach was my favorite spot and Irma ended that. But La Playa has taken hold of our hearts and we make a stop here every trip. So glad we made reservations because a lot of people were getting turned away for beach chairs.

A new fav:
Avantika. Excellent Thai food in simpson bay. This trip we did a huge take out order, but I've always dined in.

A must do:
O'plongior (or however you spell it) in Marigot. Every trip we go here a few times for drinks/lunch/happy hour.

Grand Case Beach Club. This is also becoming one of my favorite places. Good food, drink, and love the view of Anguilla's twinkling lights

Christmas Brunch. We have brunch catered by Fabulous Feasts. We've used them a few times and I highly recommend them!

Airport adventures. None! We landed around 1 something on the 21st and I was out with my checked bags in 15 minutes. We left on January 1st...got to the airport a little over 2 hours early...and ended up waiting upstairs for 2 hours. No lines, zipped thru security. Had another deceptively strong rum punch from the makeshift bar (she recognizes us and I swear gives us a heavy pour each time).

As usual, I cried on the plane as we took off. My heart was extra heavy leaving this time, for all the reasons. But I'll be back in a few weeks, so that will tide me over!

Hope my random musings are helpful to someone!

So true about Avantika. Very good food and service.

We went to O’Plongier on our first trip in 2002. It was good but back then we didn’t mind driving at night. La Playa on Orient is our fav too. So sorry for your losses. May they rest in peace.

So nice to hear from you again. Enjoyed the musings from a near-local. Sorry about your mom and uncle.

Angel face,

Sincere condolences on the passing and illnesses of family members. Those losses take so much out of you but glad you were able to rekindle the memories of good times passed.

I like the way you write so thank you for taking the time to share your experiences, both old and new.

Happy new year and wishes for happy memories for the future.

Condolences on your losses.

Have to agree with you on O Plongeoir (The Diving Board) in Marigot. We “discovered” this place in Marigot after driving by for years. Excellent food and great French local vibe. Can’t wait to go back.

Thanks so much for your report. Condolences on your losses. Glad you were able to make some happy memories and hope your next trip is even better!!