Just my humble opinion but..........

We don't spend all that much time on OB these days, reason being, we loved it in it's natural state prior to ALL the changes that happened years back when the beach was initially developed to that which most know today, and the only 'eatery' along the beach was the 'guy with the BBQ' where you ate whatever he offered that day or went hungry. Now that was real 'island feel' or 'Caribbean quaint' IMO.

But that said and out of the way, I can't help but notice that with each major modernization that happens across the island, many of us stand in outrage over the loss of the Caribbean feel, yet as the improvements are completed and in place, we enjoy the new feel and convenience they provide just as much. I'm willing to bet the same thing will happen along Orient Beach as long as there is a good mix and prices remain within the realm of 'affordable' so that all can enjoy.

So many felt the same way about the Boardwalk in Philipsberg, the new airport and the current cruise ship port but most will admit they are all welcome and pleasant improvements. I suspect, once done, we'll all get over the loss of that which once was and will come to enjoy the new feel, as long as so many of our friends aren't displaced because of the changes. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />