We just returned from 3 weeks in SXM. Will try to post trip report as soon as I am able. Quick summary is:<br>1. Island is clean and getting cleaner and greener.<br>2. Most all restaurants are back up and running.<br>3. Orient beach was more crowded than I've ever seen it but with fewer non nudes and gawkers than ever. More tatoos and body jewelry than ever before.<br>4. Philipsburg busier because more cruise ships are returning to SXM. Fewer real bargains there than in the past few years.<br>5. New Year's Eve much more sedate with the unfortunate deaths that resulted from last year's New Year's Eve celebration. Fireworks being more carefully respected.<br>6. Rental cars available and at more reasonable prices than past couple years.<br>7. More and fresher goods available at food stores. Better prices on wines and good champagnes than ever before.<br>8. Better weather than last holiday season, 3 weeks with only one morning with little rain. Many beaches restored.<br>9. Roads better than ever, still not good but much better.<br>10. Airport departure area a dream compared to the past. Air conditioned and clean with comfortable seats.<br>That's all for now, I'm still trying to find a pulse.<br>Tom G.<br><br><br><P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1><EM>Edited by Administrator on 1/17/01 04:42 PM.</EM></FONT></P>