Memories of your first trip

I know many of you are repeat visitors, but as a first-timer I'm curious as to what you did or didn't do on your first trip that you wish you had or hadn't.

Great idea for an interesting thread.

Our 1st was in 1987 and we stayed in a hotel on Great Bay. I thought P'burg was the city of the dog - barking all night long.

Not knowing anything, we just explored by car every day, with animals being in the road the main issue - not traffic.

Grand Case was our favorite beach - right at the GCBC. Orient Beach was mostly a forest. Also liked Long Beach.

Loved the little airport terminal. We could not rent a car at the airport back then.

Mine was in 1984 and I was a senior in High School. My parents had just bought a time share at the Pelican. I remember how beautiful the beaches and water were compared to what I was used to in NY/NJ area. My second trip in 1988 when I was a bit older was more memorable for me. I spent a lot of time on the French side going to swanky Euro bars and had a lot of fun meeting all these "cool" Europeans while hanging out on a tropical island. Even though I don't remember every detail of those trips, i do remember I had a great time...as I have with each subsequent trip!

Our first trip back in 99 was perfection in our opinmion. We walked into our villa at Green Cay Villas and could only say "Your kidding right". There was absolutely nothing that I would consider a negative. Hense the reason that we return as often as possible.
First week of June here we come!!!!

Ours was off a cruise ship. Our boys were still fairly young and we let them do the yacht excursion from Phillipsburg by themselves and then we were too afraid to venture off in case something went wrong so we stayed right at the dock!

Our next visit was for a Windjammer cruise and we stayed a night before as well as after and we were hooked! Got to know the French side and have been going to Orient every yr. since. Headed there this summer with newbies and I'm a nervous wreck about it! Just worried they won't have the same feelings that we do. This will be our 6th annual trip <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

My first trip was Aug. 1989, stayed at Sea Palace. What I remember most was the friendliness of the people, especially that of a young man whom we meet on Front street in Philipsburg late one night. He informed us that we didn't have to be afraid of walking at night, if anything were to happen a local would be there immedidately to assist us, even before the police. I also remember "the dogs" they were every where!!! however they all seemed harmless, paying little or no attention to people. Of course then there was Orient Beach, I'd never been to a nude beach before!!!!!!!!!!!!! there was very little on Orient, Pedro's & a few places selling souvenirs, and Orient Beach Club. Needless to say, I haven't missed a year since then, and for the 12 yrs. twice a yr. Guess you could say I'm hooked!!!

June of 06 ... It was our belated honeymoon. We heard about Orient beach being co, and wanted to be there. We stayed at LaSamanna. It was very very nice . We had a car and got to tour the island . The one
regret I have is not being aware of some of the fabulous restaurants they have on the island . We're going on 4/16and looking forward to eating at different places Ive seen mentioned here. Thankyou to all for the great
info posted daily here, I feel so much more informed than my last trip
This time we are staying at LeHoste

Our first trip was way back in 1994. We stayed at the now defunct LeBelle Creole and I remember the oooh wowwing!! when we approached the cobblestoned courtyard to check-in. The groun ds and bell tower were beautiful. We rented a car and went to Mullet, Friars and Orient beaches. Ate at the lolos for lunch. Very basic back then. Alot less traffic and many loose dogs around even outside the casinos. Bought a week timeshare at the Sapphire and remember a large C/O beach there with jet skis for rent nextdoor. The NY Rangers hockey team won the cup and I watched at Lynettes place now closed. Lots of great memories. Rermember also how lovely Dawn beach area was too. Wife took off top 1st time. Have since been coming back and watched the island grow. There was if anybody remembers a building moratorium in place for years until recently. Now it is out of control. Preferthe Fr side prim arily now..Hope this sparks a few memories for others. Tim from Long Islnd

Over 15 years ago, we arrived at La Plantation, (Orient Bay) in the dark.
We were tired after getting lost & I was disappointed, with our room, as I wanted to be closer to the pool. The room was a bit tired in it's decor too.

The next morning I woke up, looked out our window, and the view was stunning. We had complete privacy on our veranda. So, right then, I realized this was certainly better than being by the pool. We had complimentary breakfast every morning by the pool. I'm not even a big pool person. What was I thinking.

The best part was, a client gave us a list of all the restaurants they loved.
Inexpensive to haute cuisine.
I will always be thankful for that because it made our vacation very special.

Now I have my own favorites that I recommend to new vacationers...

O yes I remember our first trip to SXM in 1980. It was very special time because Marge and I spent our 10th wedding anniversary. We had a very romantic dinner near the lagoon at the now ruins of Mullet Bay villas. I can remember a fellow named Mr. X who was a SXM resident that we met who kindly showed Marge and I the entire island. Back then there were only a handful of hotels and there was no traffic! But we still go back to the island that we call our second home.

Our first trip was a sales contest prize from my company (Xerox)in the mid 80s. A week at Dawn Beach Resort (pre hurricane demolishion of same). Most vivid memory was "interesting" bus ride from the airport on one lane road over the mountain and the frequent loss of electricity that was anticipated and minimized by the staff at the resort.
Glad that we also saw past the negatives and have never missed a year since. (Also glad we bought t/s at Belair instead of Dawn Beach a couple years before Dawn Beach disappeared).

1979 Hurricane Frederic had just hit St Maarten and we had to sign a release from American Airlines. The release stated that they not be held liable for loss of hotel room if we continued on to SXM. We were on the first flight into SXM from NY after the hurricane and since we had friends who had built a home on Morning Dove Rd in Point Blanche we did not see a problem. We stayed at what was then the Divi Hotel and did not rent a car. We walked every day from the Divi to our friends in Point Blanche and some times we did it twice a day. We ate at The Seaview in the cafe by the Sea Grapes. We met many local's, all with the family name of Richardson, went to the local radio station and sat while our friends gave an interview about the Hurricane damages.
Front street had many residential homes and a very friendly feel. Even though there were no lights along Front Street we felt very safe and quite often walked it at night.
The Casino's at Divi and the Seaview did not allow local people into them and had a restriction as to how often they were allowed in.
It seemed back then there were more Pelicans and Sugar birds and dogs on the Island.
I still love going and still stay in Phillipsburg.

Our first trip was spent almost entirely at Le Meridien and on its beach (Anse Marcel). We did the 12Metre Challenge, which we loved so much that we have gone every trip since then. We went out to dinner every night, and discovered the fabulous cuisine in Grand Case. We celebrated our anniversary at La Vie en Rose, and it remains a favorite of ours. With only two days remaining on the island we decided to check out some other beaches, went to Orient, and kicked ourselves for not discovering it sooner. As soon as we got home we started making plans for our next trip!

Our very first trip to SXM was for a day on a cruise ship in 1989. We literally spent ALL day on Front Street shopping.. We loved it, but I can't believe now I spent all day shopping!! Back then, of course, SXM was a tender port. First time staying on island was February 1994, Green Cay Villas #9. I actually don't remember too much of what we did or where we ate except that we spent our beach days on Orient, of course, and there wasn't a heck of a lot there in those days, so I assume we ate at Pedro's and Papagayo for lunch. We also spent a couple of whole days at the villa and didn't leave all day. Lovely!! Wish I could do that today!!! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Joy.gif" alt="" />

Our first time in SXM was spent at a Villa in Beacon Hill. We rented from the Villa Lady 4 bedrooms with pool with three other couples. Rented two cars cooked mostly in the villa. Tried to find and explore beaches. Trips to the grocery store and watching the ocean while we ate was a blast. We liked villa's so much we rented in terre basse the next two years. Then when to St John's and over to Tortola twice. Kind of unique us and the three couples our menories are priceless......

Our first trip was probably in the early 90s. We were lucky to be invited to be the guests of a wonderful couple who spent 8-plus weeks on the island every year, who knew it inside and out, so we were able to learn about places that we still frequent. Our first morning was spent at the original Zee Best, followed by a trip to Orient, with lunch at Kon-Tiki.

I think we were only there for 4 days or so, but we hit Rosie's, Da Livio's (sp?), Talk of the Town, Chez Raymond and a place over in Orleans that is no longer open, very similar to Yvette's.

Back then most flights to Philly went through San Juan. Our friend even taught me to purchase steamed ham and gouda sandwiches at the little snack bar in the old airport, so as to not have to deal with the "food" in the San Juan airport.

We still think about Mitch and Frannie every time we go down, and our first breakfast is still always at Zee Best.

My first trip was in the early 90's, I think. Didn't need a passport. Remember the old airport, it was sooooo small.

Went with a friend that had been there before and hopped a flight to St. Barts for a few days. Then back in St. Maarten went to the CO beach for the first time. Been going back ever since.

Question - What year was Mullet area destroyed? What year was the new airport complete and what year did we have to start using a passport?

Mullett was destroyed by Hurricane Luis in September 1995. Not sure on the new airport. 2005 maybe??

My first trip was in 1982 or 83. I was in my early 20's and traveling with 2 girlfriends. We booked a package deal and stayed in Phillipsburg. This was my first vacation on my own with friends and we had a blast spending all days on the beach and nights dancing at Studio 7. My biggest impression of the island was of how friendly everyone was. I remember meeting our tour coordinator who was also a young woman for an island orientation. She told us not to have any worries that the island was very safe. We actually walked from Phillipsburg down to Chesterfield's in the complete dark one night. Picking up hitchhikers was not big deal and was a great way to meet people. The good old days!

My first visit was in '86. I wish I would have gotten to know even more people. And I wish I would have gone to Sam's more. I didn't go to bars that much then, my loss. Sam's was located on Front St down toward the end toward the east.

Our first trip was in the late 80's. I remember Mullet before it was destroyed. We stayed at Pelican right on the beach in F building. The airport was basically a metal shed and the car rental booths were outside and it became a fun negotiation to see who would rent the lowest. No need for reservations before you came as cars and traffic was not an issue. Everyone honked at each other and would stop traffic to talk to someone going the other way and you didn't care. Orient was basically 3-4 stalls of pareos, and trinkets. Nothing like today. Cheris and Maho area was the happening place. Went to Zacharys BBQ that was over the hill by cruise ship dock. Went to Marigot or to P'burg for dinner alot as not that much in Simpson Bay. Snorkelled at Creole Rock. Went to the fort by Divi, and straw market in Marigot. Took a day trip to St Barts. You could park on Frontstreet and never had a problem finding a spot...There were fewer things to do but it was a great trip as we have been returning ever since! So I just rambled on, sorry...what I did do was fall in love with an island and its people and made great friends. It's what keeps my family coming back.

first trip was in dec 1994 stayed at mullet bay leave feb 12 on our 5th trip in villa near orient beach love the orient area <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Clapping.gif" alt="" />

First trip was in mid-80s, not sure exactly. Was supposed to be a 3 night 4 day trip but at the end we just could not leave. Our travel agent was able to extend for 2 more days and even then we cried at the airport departure. Have made 20+ trips and every time it is time to leave a tear forms in my eye. Our adventures included trips to Phillipsburg to Land's Radio to make phone calls. Supermarkets didn't have much and what they had could sometimes be a little old. Nothing on Orient except Pedros. First time experience for C/O. The most memorable experience was seeing the blue water and white sand...quite a contrast to NYC beaches.

Carol - I know the new terminal was not open in May 2006 but it was open in May 2007.

Our first two trips were via a cruise ships - 1982 and 1993. In 1982 Backstreet was just a dirt street. The West Indies Tavern had yet to burn down.

Our first stay, not on a cruise, was in 1997. We had fun going around the island, got lost on the back side of Philipsburg,(yes you can get briefly lost), and spent an entire day just checking out the beaches on our map. The first time we drove in to Friar's Beach, you almost needed a 4wd and we thought for sure we missed a turn off and had the wrong road. We have been devotees of Friar's ever since.

The island had experienced several days of heavy rain just before our stay in 1997. As our taxi drove down the huge water filled, pot-hole road to Beachside Villas (which is now paved), I remember thinking, "What did I get us into?". Once again, we have been devotees to BSV ever since.

I remember eating at Turtle Pier, Boathouse, SSBB, Bar de la Mer, and Friar's. The market of choice for us was the old Rams at Cole Bay, or the old Ospay in Simpson Bay. Grocery variety was not nearly like it is now, in my opinion.

We were there only 10 days, and as we flew out, I had tears in my eyes - we had such a good time. I told my husband I wanted to come back again. We have been back every year except 2000.

Our first trip was July 1992. We stayed at Flamboyant on an All Inclusive deal that was very inexpensive at the time. For the first couple of days, we just stayed around Flamboyant. Then we wandered next door to Mercure Simpson and met a very nice young man named Philip who was running a car rental desk in their lobby. He convinced us to rent a car for three days, to better see what the island had to offer. I think we would not have gone back to SXM if we had not seen the rest of the island, driving ourselves. We went into P'burg and Marigot. I really wanted to see Orient Beach. The day we went there was windy and rainy, no one on the beach, no bars, etc. I recall my husband saying: "I don't think much of this beach. Not nice at all!" Now, I think he would sell his soul for a couple of days on Orient.

My first trip was 1985. I stayed at the Divi and it was the most beautiful place I had ever seen. I had a room right in back of the beach. The water was crystal clear and so pretty. The people at the hotel were so friendly. I met a beach guy there named Steve so was there every day for me and my friend with a chair and towel. It was top notch. SXM was quiet, not much traffic and unspoiled. Those were the days !!

I remember going in the 90's and all of the rental cars you had to use the bar that you put on the steering wheel, because the crime had been so bad that year.

Doesn't anybody remember when you did not need a passport, only a birth certificate?

Our first trip was November 1985. It was our honeymoon! My husband choose SXM at random, we knew nothing about the island. We stayed at the old Marina Royale ...It was in Marigot right on the marina and we had a second floor balcony...Everyone was so "French" we felt like we were completely out of our element...! We learned fast however...We learned all about haute cuisine that trip...I remember a restaurant in Marigot called Le Buccaneer where we had our first taste of french food..We rented a "mini moke" and had a blast...we visited all the beaches..When we stopped at Baie Rouge we discovered some folks were "sans" bathing suits! Well, we were shocked (however, we quickly jointed them) and never looked back. SXM was a very different place in 1985...there was nothing on Orient, but Pedros and Club O..it was so much fun...We spent the rest of the trip on Orient...Lots of great memories...we are making our next trip in July..staying at Club O..cannot wait..our first summer trip..yah!!

It was 1988. I was my first trip to SXM and to the Caribbean. Staying @ my brother’s BEAUTIFUL Pelican timeshare unit (those were the days.) It was December and we left from PHL but was I too stupid to even know to leave my coat in the car at the airport. I’ll NEVER forget getting the taxi and looking around marveling at the tropical scenery. I said to the taxi driver... Oh my G-d what a beautiful day and such a beautiful place and he turned to me with the biggest brightest smile and said Miss, EVERYDAY HERE BEAUTIFUL. I’ll never forget that. And when I think about I have to agree with him.

Please let me know your thoughts on L'Hoste. We're planning on staying there in July. We've been to OB several times, but decided to stay somewhere new.

Several months prior to our first visit to SXM I discovered TTOL and asked a lot of questions and read lots of threads. Armed with many suggestions we were on our way. Having no idea about logistics, we booked the Divi . Except for our first full day we spent every day checking out different beaches and going offsite for all of our dinners. Had we known all the things we wanted to see, do and eat were not in close proximity to the Divi we'd have picked a different location to stay. Aside from not liking our hotel choice we enjoyed the vacation so much we returned twice more that year.

The other thing I wished we hadn’t done was cram a day to Anguilla into our first vacation in St. Martin. We should have traveled off the island for a subsequent visit.

David probably wishes we hadn't traveled during Lent as he gives up "sweets" and was unable to indulge in any desserts during our week long stay.

glo. Yes. I remember when you didn't need a passport to visit SXM. In fact, I got my first passport right before that changed because my traveling companion said it is easier to travel with a passport.

Wow, Le Buccaneer! He was an American trying to compete with the French in Marigot. Nice guy, but I think he closed up the next year. I was first there in 1983, Orient also had Robert's Water Ferry to Green cay. I still see Robert at Orient every once in a while.

Our first trip to SXM was 3/20 - 3/27/1983! Coincidentally, I was just looking at our photo album of that vacation. We knew nothing....relied on the travel agent. We stayed at the Maho. What a beach there was then...long, wide, sea grape trees, palm trees. We have a picture of me flat out on the lounge chair, white as white can be, stretching every fiber of my being toward the sun. The OP asked if we would have changed anything...Yeah...sunscreen would have been smart. I never needed sunblock before. Then again, I'd never been south of New York. What a burn. Anyway, the beach was so beautiful, we used that as our base beach. We did rent a car....Drove all around. Our very first experience with "real" French food. First time I had escargot. The chef (honest to God) came out to show me how to get the snail out of the shell with the eyelash curler it was served in. That was in P'Burg. Can't imagine where or what it was because it was fine, fine French food. There was also a little beach bar on the Boardwalk called Pinnochio's. Best banana daiquiri. In Grand Case, I remember eating at the "Rainbow Cafe." All the waiter could say in English was, "American Express, don't leave home without it." What a meal....we had a booth right on the water where we were joined by the house Siamese cat. In those days all the restaurants had cats in them because of the mice. Same deal at Caravanserai (sp?). I remember that meal as being not so good, something about undercooked veal? (I gave the rest to the cat!) On Marigot Harbor, we ate at L'Aventure up on the hill. Another really cute French waiter with whom I was so excited to speak French. Then when he came, I was too embarrassed & could only choke out, "Deux Gin et Tonics, s'il vous plait." I had my first Salade Nicoise.....so good.

We went to the casino (1st time) at the Maho one night after I had a little too much to drink (ahem). I must have been so annoying at the table because I kept splitting tens and WINNING. Everybody was rolling their eyes when all of a sudden the lady dealer said to the table, "Leave her alone, mon. It's women's in-two-wishin." I won $350 at blackjack (lost it all the next night after the snail fiasco).

That was that...we spent 25 years after that trying out different islands, when I didn't realize that it's SXM that's special. We went back in 2008 & the fever hit me like a hammer. I'd like to make it a yearly (heck monthly) trip, but my husband didn't get the fever. My 24-year-old daughter came with us this year, and she got the fever. She better hurry up and get a job so she can start taking me with her!

Anyway, I love St. Martin & I never want to go anywhere else (except Italy).
Go and enjoy!

P.S. A passport was needed in 1983. I'm looking at mine right now!

My 1st trip was in 1978 off a cruise ship – and we spent the entire trip on Front Street – and all I can really remember is the Courthouse. We returned in 1991 again on a cruise ship & took a cab to Mullet Bay Beach – gorgeous! Then in 1997 we spent 1 week at the Pelican in the lower B building and have been back once or twice a year ever since. We rented a car (and I do remember the security bars across the steering wheel!) and spent most of our beach days at Orient. Dinner was in Grand Case – l’Alabama, Sebastiano’s, le Pressoir, Rainbow Club, and a restaurant whose name I cannot remember but it had a hammock with a mannequin on the front porch. I remember Ric’s Place in P’burg for lunch. There was a bulletin board that was a precursor to TTOL I can remember reading & printing their info – so while we got “confused” regularly (Don never gets “lost”) we did have a game plan of what we wanted to do and see. And we keep on coming back…

Our first trip there was in 1987, and somewhat by accident. It was definitely pre-internet and we were dealing with a travel agency, who was setting up a trip to Aruba for us. About two months before we were leaving, she called and said the flights to Aruba were being cancelled for some reason, and wanted to rebook us to SXM instead. I very reluctantly agreed. We had to travel about 16 hours through various airports and finally got to the Sea Palace late at night. We thought it was the only building on the street it was that dark and quiet. Woke up the next morning at 11 a.m. (I never sleep that late!!)and couldn't believe the view. Went outside and couldn't believe there were all these little shops on the street. My husband still jokes about the $19 Seiko watch he bought that first trip. The roads were in really rough shape (or non-existent) and potholes everywhere (they've been replaced with speed bumps). Eventually made it to Aruba, and while nice, it doesn't draw us back like SXM does.

Our first trip was in the late 70's but I cannot remember which year. We stayed at Le Gallion. Luis took that out and just a shell of the building is left. I have not gone over there in many years so maybe everything has been removed. We used to walk on the path from Le Gallion over to Club Orient. Only Club O and Pedros was on the beach at that time. The one restaurant I remember was Yvettes. The next year we stayed at Club O, Luis also took those buildings out, and I remember we met the US Ambassador to Chad who was also staying there. I still have his business card. After that we visited many other islands in the Caribbean annually for 20 years. We were back in probably 1990 or so for a day trip when we stayed on Anquilla for a week. Finally we returned to SXM in 2000, staying at Club O for four years and bought our condo at Caribbean Princess in November of 2003 and we go down twice a year now. Obviously, the changes have been amazing. My problem is that the years blend together; the big things like Luis and the new airport really stick out but some of you people amaze me with your recall of places and being able to put specific years on the events.

2003. I had to go to sxm for work. Can you believe the luck? I landed a great job in international business right out of college. I have to travel all over the Caribbean. Anyway, sxm is my favorite. I love the mix of cultures. My first trip I spent at Haho but visited several spots on the island. It lasted 3 days. Two months later I brought my wife back and we had a proper vacation. We vacation here at least once a year.

Our first trip was also to Flamboyant but in 1991 (because it was all-inclusive..must be a Canadian thing, eh). We were actually booked into Flamboyant II which later became the Belvedere Hotel in French Cul de Sac. Once we were seated on the plane the stewardess asked for us to identify ourselves, our hearts skipped a beat thinking this was not good news, we had teenage children at home <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Yikes.gif" alt="" />. However, she told us we were being transferred to Flamboyant I as II was not ready for guests.

After being assigned our room we walked to the bar beside the pool. My wife let out a very loud "OH NO"! Seems they had Double Diamond Beer on tap (one of my favourites)...and it was all inclusive! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Cheers.gif" alt="" /> Yes, I did OD by the end of the week.

For beach time we would walk to Baie Rouge and come back mid afternoon. One of the best things we did was take a bus tour of the island which is how we discovered Orient Beach and Club Orient. The only dowside is we did not discover Grand Case until the next year.

After the first visit we were "hooked" and now looking forward to trip 20 in June.

John <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Umbrella.gif" alt="" />

It is hard to remember that far back, but we had planned a trip to the Caribbean for our 25th anniversary, but had to postpone it for a few years (I won't tell how many). Our first trip was in 2009 (I guess that isn't too far back <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Wink.gif" alt="" />). We went through a travel agent since we knew nothing about making reservations and we paid too much. Even so we had a great time! We stayed at the Caribbean Princess and had the whole villa to ourselves! We woke up in the morning to a beautiful view of the ocean. When we wandered down to the beach we were in shock at what was worn - or not - on Orient beach. We observed and then later participated. We are looking forward to our 16 days on Orient this June/July for the 4th time!!! We also enjoyed the French menu in the Orient area since we did not rent a car.

Great post idea!

First trip was Feb 2001, it was actually was the first major vacation we both has been on. On luggage was lost for the first 3 days of our trip and being novice travelers, we didn't pack any in our carryon. Bought a couple t-shirts, shorts to get us through. Stayed at St. Tropez on Orient, no Orient village then. Our one fancy dinner was at L'Almandier in Grand Case which was fabulous. Watched the planes a Sunset Beach Bar and waved to our friends on their webcam. Left beach towels in our car parked in Marigot, where they were promptly stolen. Lesson learned there. Drove all over the island and got lost quite a few times.

We have been 5 times since then and look forward to more adventures and experiences when we go back next January!

On our first trip in 93, it was our 20 anniversary. We did so much in the 9 nine we were there, that in the 14 times later we have not done very much. We did a snorkel trip, a dinner cruise on Simpson Lagoon, horse back riding, a 17 course Indonesian meal. In the last 14, we have taken a day trip to St. Bart's and Anguilla, and a dinner cruise out of Pelican Marina. Rest of years have been renting a villa, eating at different restaurants on OB for lunch and dinners in Grand Case with the exception of Mario's in Sandy Ground, Mark's at the roundabout in Phillipsburg, and Captain Oliver's. This year, 12 days, as I am now retired, and more food, drink, sand gravity, and breakfasts in the villa by the pool. We feel so fortunate that we have found our Paradise. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/circle.gif" alt="" />

Great idea for a post. Love reminiscing about previous trips of others. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Clapping.gif" alt="" />

I agree, great posts and very interesting!!

Our first trip to St. Martin goes back to 1977, if you can believe that. Stayed at The Caravanserai, which then was what now would be called a boutique hotel and a class act. After all these years and many trips there since I can’t remember too many details, but we did rent a car. Not much traffic, but then the roads were to match. I remember that in driving around the island not all the roads were paved. Even then, we were warned not to leave things in our car. The normal way into Phillipsburg from the airport put you directly onto Front St. which you could not only drive on but park on – and find a parking place. Not knowing better, we ate most dinners at the Caravanserai, which had a really good restaurant, so no hardship. Mullet Bay was the flagship resort.

First trip feb. 1977....walked off plane to runway/ terminal...stayed @summit...spent all our time @ Mullet Resort..Dirt and sand roads..no deve;lopment..locals walking down the roads in daytime on their way to get married..animals of all kinds roaming around..only telphones were downtown phillipsburg..you signed in and waited your turn to make your call..dirt roads in phillipsburg, Marshall's Dept. Store downtown Phillipsburg...Oh the bus ride from mullet to pburg... <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Blush.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Blush.gif" alt="" />.no guard rails on side of Road.....

Our first trip was in 99. We were on the first cruise ship to get into the island after Hurricane Lenny. The cruise ship dock was destroyed, we ferried in. The merchants were hungry, I bought my wife a nice emerald ring for 40% off appraised price. We went to Orient Beach, don't recall seeing a single leaf on any tree, the island looked like a desert. We ate lunch at La Playa and my wife sat topless in the almost deserted restaurant. Neither of us has been the same since. Haven't set foot on another cruise, have spent a week on St Martin every year since!

Great post!

First visit was on a cruise ship in 1993. We enjoyed the 12 meter racing and then some shopping on Front Street.

First trip we stayed on the island was in 1997 to celebrate our 20th anniversary (a year late). All I can say is it was Magical!

Stayed (along with our best friends) at L'Esplande - a real gem. First beach we visited was Friar's. Will always remember driving done that rocky dirt lane that finally ended at a beautiful beach at sunset. Many meals in Grand Case as we really knew nothing about the island. Took the Scoobie Doo day trip to Anguilla. Discovered Orient Beach and have been going back ever since.

We continue to visit every year or 2 and have stayed many places and done many things. Always a favorite.

Thanks for starting this thread.

MJ

We took our first trip in February, 1996, and the island still had a fair amount of damage left from Hurricane Luis. (We didn't realize how terrible it had been when we booked the trip.) We stayed at Belair, and were dismayed to find that there was a large dredger in Little Bay, busy pumping sand back onto the beach! Our kids were 5 & 6 and we had hoped to spend lots of time at the resort hanging out on the beach. It turned out we had an even better time exploring the rest of the island, managing to see almost every beach on the map! We did the day trip to Prickly Pear, which we still enjoy doing, and had several great meals at Marina Royale, another favorite place of ours. By the end of the trip, we'd fallen in love with SXM and bought a timeshare at Divi, despite all the damaged buildings. We've returned almost every year since, and will be back in March. Our oldest daughter is now in college, and is still willing to spend spring break with the family, as long as it's on SXM! She is bringing a friend along who's returning for a second year because they had such a good time last year.

Does anyone have old pictures of St. Martin that they could post?

What a fabulous post and I have really enjoyed reading everyone's memories.

I landed on St. Maarten in the late eighties after being tendered in from one of the Princess ships. I was young, traveling alone and trying to repair my broken heart over a long relationship that had come to an end.

I didn't travel far from Phillipsburg because I was too scared to do it alone but I had a blast. I walked up and down Front street then got a French takeout lunch (complete with a bottle of wine) to take to the beach. The dogs (you're right - they were everywhere!) and I dined royally on a baguette, pate, cheese, little French sandwiches and pastries. I never forgot St. Maarten ... there was something about the island that had me intrigued.

Fast forward ten years later and my wonderful husband (finally found the perfect guy!) and I needed a break. I remembered the charming Dutch/French island I had travlled to so many years before and we booked a vacation. Armed with a rental car and a map we went outside of Phillipsburg and never looked back. It was one jaw dropping adventure after another. I'll never forget the moment we discovered Maho beach and saw the first 747 land or the first time I laid eyes on Mullet. As we drove along it got even better with Baie Longue and Baie Rouge and Friars. When we rounded the bend and took in the beauty of Orient we were hooked. For the last ten years we have travelled to many other islands but always found ourselves on a beach somewhere talking about St. Maarten. We even took a cruise to the other islands to make sure we had seen all the Caribbean had to offer. Nope - it was St. Maarten that held our heart. I'll never forget the flight after the cruise docking in San Juan to SXM, landing and then heading to Maho for a Caribe. Once again, back on "our" island I'm embarassed to say I burst into tears. "What's wrong?!!!!!" my shocked hubby said looking at the mess in front of him. "Nothing," I said. "I'm just back HOME and so incredibly happy!"

When a place moves you to "Happy" tears...then you know that it is pretty special.

I shopped at Marshalls too, in '86, it was a great find as even in '86 most of the shops were extremely expensive. I used to do a jog over on the east side and there was hardly anything there. There was just an open area just south of the Coralita Beach Motel, where they were always outside playing bocce ball. It was very quiet with next to no traffic and you'd hardly see a soul, maybe a couple fisherman as you got close to French Quarter. I wish I could remember some of the names of the home improvement places back then. There was one in downtown Phillipsburg on the east side where the owner hung out sitting on a counter. They said he had 50 kids. I think it might have been "Pro" something or other. Back then you couldn't get things on St Maarten like you can now.

I really enjoyed this post. Moral in my case: you can lead a MARE to the water, but only she will decide 'if and 'when' she'll drink!

2007 Arrived on cruise ship. Took a taxi Island tour with last stop at OB. Wife didn’t get out of taxi at OB, but I took some wonderfully colorful pictures of the beach and umbrellas looking north from Pedro’s. We got back to the ship and she says,”that was great. We ought to come back and spend some more time here”. We’ve been doing the FL to Hawaii hop for twenty years. Stored that quote.

2008 I arranged a Mystery trip to SXM in late May for a week, stayed at L’hoste. She doesn’t walk distances too well, needed to be ‘on the beach’ with a pool. L’hoste is perfect. After first day on the ‘french’ beach she fell right in with the ‘french’ atmosphere. We met another FL couple who were staying at L’hoste and frequenting CO. I saw the early morning walkers and decided ‘I can do that’, joined the parade initially with trepidation. After the third day they invited us to join them at CO: I opt’d to go, and wife opt’d to stay at L’hoste. She’s ‘found heaven’ on L’hoste beach, didn’t need to go farther. I joined them one other time and wife didn’t. We did do diner with them a couple of times, Mark’s and Lee’s.

2009 Opt’d for ten days this time. Got wife to CO by giving her a beachside massage at the ‘local resort’ spa for her birthday. I had one also, so that gave her an hour on the south end of the beach to sit in the calm warm waters by herself watching the activities around Papagayo. At her request we went back to L’hoste for the rest of the day. Four days later she asks if I’m planning to go back to CO. A firm YES and she says she’ll come with me. I enjoyed the CO c/o experience and she enjoyed the ‘french’ beach experience under the ‘yellow’ umbrellas. She found a few friendly people to chat with while doing her water aerobics.

2010 Another ten days at L’hoste in May. Her first request on the first morning on the beach, ‘no massages’ they leave bruises since I’m taking meds, but if you want to go to CO I’ll go along’. RIGHT after breakfast we’re driving to the CO parking lot. I enjoy the c/o and she the ‘french’ experience. Day two is shopping. Day three she meets me on the beach after my walk and a few swims and ‘do you want to go to CO after breakfast’. By ten we are doing another day two. Day five, I’ve done the daily walk to both ends of the beach and had a few swims, people still enjoying the walking, and she comes out before about 8:30 and sits on a lounge beside me and says: ‘a penny for your thoughts’. My response ‘it’s time to lose the bottoms’. In a huff she goes for her swim leaving me worried about how the rest of the day will turn out. I hear my name being called from the water and she’s waving her bottoms at me. She comes out and says ‘you want to go for a short walk’? A quarter mile later we turn around and walk back and we’re both wearing our smiles. Later in the day we pick up and go to CO. I’m getting the front row chairs set and the umbrella in the right place and my stuff settled and I look around. No wife, but I see her in the water already, AND the bottoms are on the chair. We both enjoyed CO’s c/o experience for that day and one other before we had to leave. Second time she even spent over an hour sitting on a floating dock chatting with another Bostonian. The accents are a dead giveaway.

The moral: you can lead a Mare to water, but ONLY SHE will decide ‘if’ and ‘when’ she’ll drink.

2011 Opt’ing for two weeks in at May. Can’t wait to see how much water will be drunk this year.


<img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/circle.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

There are so many wonderful memories of our first trip. Many "firsts" for us!

Bert & Jill at The Oasis Bar & Grill at The Ocean Club introduced us to Rum Jumbie on our first night... we were hooked!

Jewelry shopping in Maho and having Neil (RIP) serve us Rum Jumbie while we shopped!

Clothing Optional sun bathing... and swimming in the ocean!

Grand Case Beach Club's chairs with the flag... just raise the flag and the handsome young french guy running down to bring what ever your heart desires.

Going to the Marigot outdoor market. When we were finished we walked out to the parking area and had a heck of a time finding OUR white Toyota Corolla in the sea of white Toyota Corollas! LOL

Drinking for free at the sunset Beach Bar while watching the planes land at PJIA.

We discovered SXM by way of cruise stop back in 1999 and on the 3 occaisons we were there it was cloudy and threatening of rain, so we just walked along Front Street, finally after another cruise the weather was beautiful and we ventured over to Orient Beach and after staying along the beach all day my wife and I decided this would be a great vacation for us, minus other family members. So in the year 2003 (I think) I went on line and found a new hotel called Alamanda Resort that was in its inaugural year so we booked a week for the 2nd week of January. When we got there late in the afternoon after checking in we went down to the beach and it was deserted and we both looked at each other and said "did we make a mistake by coming here", for we are use to vacationing in O/C MD during the summer when there are all kinds of people late in the afternoon. Well anyway later that night after hiring a taxi service, who became our personal driver for the rest of the week and took us to all the favorite places to eat and all the tourist attractions we just fell in love with the island. We had gone back the following years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 on the same week and same hotel and whether it be the staff at the hotel or the friends we had made in the restaurants every time was better than the previous trips. My wife got seriously ill in the year 2008 and we have not been back since. This coming February we are going on the Oasis of the Seas and one of the stops will be SXM and we are hoping to get over to Orient Beach and visit the hotel and the friends we have made there. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/dine.gif" alt="" />

First trip in 1983. Stayed at Divi, walked over the hill to P-Burg. Did some shopping, visiting casino's and eating at a few restaurants. Rented a car, went to Orient Beach, dropped shorts and enjoyed the sun and fun. Had a few "funny' experiences, but not for posting. Had a great time, OB wasn't developed except for a burger shack and some tent shops. Went back several times. Totally different now.
Spent time in Grand Case and Marigot. Had our anniversary dinner on the balcony overlooking the harbor at La Vie En Rose. Great meal and great time with my honey.
Tried a few other islands over the years, no comparision. Wish we had returned instead of experiencing other islands. Haven't found any that can compare with SXM.

Wish we hadn't rented a car from Hertz. Wish we had gone into Grand Case for dinner a couple of times. Wish we had stayed at GCBC right from the start. The Dawn Beach was OK, but just OK.

Glad we had the opportunity to eat at the West Indian Tavern before it closed down.

Our first trip was in 2003. I had researched the island and was intriguied with the idea of two countries splitting such a small island. I decided that we would rather stay on the French side rather than the Dutch. Registered for TTOL in January that year. We went in February.

We stayed at Alizea in Mount Vernon based upon recommendations we found online on TripAdvisor, TTOL, and other sites. Most of the recommendations were authored by 'Contessa'. We arrived on a Saturday and checked in and were told there was a party that night at the hotel. We went to dinner in Grand Case and when we returned, the party was in full swing. It was a TTOL party hosted by Contessa. It is there we met Contessa and Sword, LeeLee and Big Tom, Patti (Sungoddess) and others who we still are friends with today.

Photos from our trip are at: 2003 photos

We loved the island so much that on our next trip, we bought a condo at Les Balcons. We have been going to the island twice a year since then.

Our first trip was in late June of 1982. Stayed with some kind hearted friends at their time share at the Pelican. It was their first stay at the facility and second time on the island, so none of us really knew anything about SXM except that Orient Beach was a NUDIE beach. Jeana told me there was no way in hell we were going there! Well we did and had a great time, even if she was a little challenged by the thought of clothing removal in public! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Wink.gif" alt="" />
I now wished we had rented a car for the entire trip and left the Pelican most of the time. We actually spent more than half of the trip without leaving the resort, something I could not even imagine now! The island was so diffferent then. I remember stopping at the Taco Bell drive through and ordering frozen Margarita's for the drive to the beach. Don't think you will see that happening today!

BobandJeana

Aug 1981. Now I feel old. My husband and came to St Martin on our honeymoon. I remember our travel agent saying you want to go where? Stayed at Great Bay. Loved everything but didn't venture far. Returned on 10 yr Anniversary and stayed at the brand new Hotel Mont Vernon. Been back to Orient area yearly since. Be there in May this year. We are hooked.

Thanks for all the replies, I 've really enjoyed reading them. It's interesting to read about the changes that have taken place on the island. I'll be sure to share our first experience upon our return.

I'm enjoying this post immensely! What memories you all have...keep em coming. I was thinking about how to post pictures from 28 years ago. I suppose you could take a picture of the picture. Hmmmmm...

Please do post old pics.....

First trip was in 1982. Honeymoon at Mullet Bay. At that time almost all our time was in resort, didn't really know there was life beyond there. As the trips continued , we explored other parts of the Dutch side. It was quite different in those days. Remember one time when we got lost exploring and wound up close to an ominous looking bull. Thank God we could run in those days. After Luis finally discovered the French side and it was like discovering a new paraside on one small island. We continue to go , about 25-30 trips, last one this past December.

"Remember one time when we got lost exploring and wound up close to an ominous looking bull."

lol... What a visual..hope it wasn't at Club O!

Our firsttrip to SXM was in 1978....we stayed at the Caravanseri when it was a small hotel with a delightful bar on the promentory over the water. We took a hotel shuttle every evening to Muttlet Bay to their casino , where men were expected to wear jackets....the streets in Marigot were dirt roads and the water lapped right up against the sea wall in front of La Vie en Rose...NO PARKING LOT!
Some of the best restaurants were in Marigot fronting the water...Le Poisson D'or...one of my all time favorites. Claud's Mini Club had the best buffet then too....old timer.
Orient Beach had no facilities....just the rib shack ....allin all some good memories.....Island has changed...for the better? Some things....some not!

After two vacations in Guadelupe, we decided to give St. Martin a try in November of 1988. We read a report that said Club Orient was loud at night (turned out to be untrue), so we got a reservation for Le Galion. We came in at night on an old school bus, and we were the last stop for the passengers. It was the last season for Le Galion, and we ended up each day at Club Orient. We stayed there the next 20 trips and watched Orient Beach grow from Club Orient, Pedro's and a few souvenier shops (The Mall). In those days you left your rental car at the airport with keys in it. The owner of the rental car business would pick it up. "It's a small island. We'll find the car." The biggest surprise was that the same people kept coming back every year. Some things are better, and some are worse. The food choices are much better.