Last year we did both SXM and Guadeloupe. We flew to Guadeloupe from BWI on Norwegian Air, for less than $200 RT. Lodging and food are less expensive in Guadeloupe than in SXM - but car rentals cost more. Guadeloupe is huge, compared to SXM. We stayed at the Relais des Chateaux, on the eastern end of the island. Just to give you an idea of the size of Guadeloupe, on the day that we drove to the Botanical Garden, it was a 2 hour drive, one way, and the roads are pretty good. The restaurants are great, and there are CO beaches. It helps - a lot - if you speak French. But I would not let the language issue dissuade you from going. Norwegian has non-stop service from JFK, BWI, and BOS. I think that they also fly from Florida, now. The service is seasonal. I can't wait to get back.