30th year visiting SXM. Ro reporting here. No big problems except 3 hr delay arriving did cut into our sun time. Leslie Bruce met us at airport with our Toyota. In minutes we were off to GCBC--in time to catch sunset. Don quickly got into the rhythm of driving on SXM 1 beep for giving a break 2 beeps for thank you.
We had 2 days wind, overcast, rain during our 5 days at GCBC but managed to get in sun and booze. Friday back to airport to to meet friend's flt.
Saturday 3/14 moved to Divi for the rest of our stay. Left our friends at GCBC 'til Monday to complete their 3 day minium stay, then moved them in with us at Divi.
Since this was their 1st visit, we did more driving than usual. Toured island, stopped to see the new Raddison---beautiful, fits in nicely, unlike the ugly Westin. Ma Dou Dou for gifts, the Forts both sides, Marinas, Boardwalk, Casinos, Harmony night etc.
Some of our pre plans didn't make it. Didn't get to Pinel, Gutside or Mario's Bistro to eat, didn't get to Lotiere either.
Observations: (our opinons only)
Saw little traffic the 1st week. Picked up some the 2nd week. Stuck once in Bridge opening Sandy Ground upon arrival.
Maho area needs a good steam cleaning. Didn't "sparkle" as I remembered from the past.
Cupecoy area has too much building going on.
Philipsburg is dead at night.
Many store for lease or just empty on both sides.
Spoke to islanders who said business was down, that they thought the only reason people came this year was because they'd booked trips prior to the economy let-down, and that they feared 2010 would be a disaster for them.
Great recovery from Omar! Divi looked better than last year, although a few beachfront units are still under repair. I give them credit; they fixed up the pools, and common areas before the rooms so we felt they'd put the guest before profit. Royal Islander looks great too.
Oh, we got to drive the new road on our trip to Tropical at Le Galion to windsurf. What a pleasure!
Part 2 will tell where we ate.
Ro and Don
.
