This was our third trip to Sxm, previous being 2000 and 2007. Stayed at Esmeralda. Rooms well maintained, pools clean, grounds green with tons of flowers.
Flew on Us Air. Had to listen to stewardess trash Sxm in general and French people specifically. I would bet she has never stayed there.

FOOD;
CAFE PLANTATION. It's become a tradition to eat there on our first night on the island. Wonderful setting, good food, and an easy walk from E's.

SKIPJACKS. Ate there last year after a rained out pub crawl. Good place to watch the stars come out. This year steaks were good, I got the bone in ribeye. Nice place for a lazy evening.

ASTROLABE. Friday night lobster and jazz night. Most romantic restaurant we have enjoyed on Sxm. Food is very expensive and very good.

PEGLEG. Went there after good reviews on this forum. Lived up to the talk. Best steaks we have had on the island. Broke even in Princess Casino after dinner.

TALK OF THE TOWN. Great place to enjoy the diversity of people on the island. So casual and layed back. We shared shrimp, chicken and ribs. Total bill with a tip was $40.00

SPIGA. We got there at 6:30. Only two tables occupied. By seven all tables were filled and people were waiting in the street. Overall best meal all week. Very attractive building, very good service, food was exceptional.

FISH POT. We have eaten there on every trip. I know this place gets trashed here regulary, but we have always enjoyed great food and service. We ate there on our anniversary night, and staff was very helpful assisting us with our anniversary sunset photos.

ORIENT BEACH. Less crowded than previous trips except for one cruise ship day. Spent a lot of time at Baywatch. My wife gave ANDY a portrait of him she painted. Baywatch is worth the trip to SXM if there was nothing else on the island.

SECURITY. I saw more police by far than on previous trips. We drove all over the island. We used the same precaution we use at home. Felt safe and saw no problems.

ONE FOR ONE. It didn't make any difference. Prices were adjusted upward at one for one places.

Just a superb trip. We are working on a trip to take our four children next year.