I'll ask here too if it's OK.. a NEW vacation site isn't happening so I'm thinking of returning to SXM- it'll be 4th trip to spend time on island...I've always stayed at Flamingo (EXPEDIA bookings have been great) I'd like your opinions, should I repeat, or try the north-east side of island? Advantages- closer to things I haven't done-kayaking.. Pinel... ferrys... what I'd really love is more island music, day and night....better snorkeling on property if possible, if not close by.... Disadvantages that really aren't-- lack of familiarity with area... I really like being able to walk to church on Monday... just soliciting opinions

<img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/circle.gif" alt="" />Go to Grand Case. Manny hotels, great food and you can walk to church. Beach is outstanding!!

As I'm sure you know, St. Maarten isn't known for its snorkeling. However, some of the best snorkeling seems to be at Divi; it's probably half an hour to Pinel from Divi. Not sure what church you are looking for, but many people walk to downtown Philipsburg from Divi, where there is a church. The walk back is uphill so if you aren't in good shape, you could get a taxi (plentiful in Philipsburg) back to Divi.

Just one suggestion.

Church on Monday is at the Red Piano near the Flamingo. That would be a long walk from Grand Case! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

that's why i have it listed under partial disadvantages.... best places for local music suggestions????

Or you could always try Grand Case Beach Club - snorkeling at Creole Rock is right there and you've got good eating on site as well as all of Grand Case at your fingertips. The bar there is pleasant, too, and they include all non-motorized water sports including kayaks as I recall. Just a thought.........

We have island timeshare that I would never give up but over the years we've decided to expand our horizons for 3-4 nights every few trips and have stayed in P'berg. at the Pasangrahan Hotel, Mary's Boon on Simpson Bay, GCBC, and our last new experience was at Beachside Villas on the other end of Simpson Bay and they've all been fun and different not to mention pleasant. We've also ventured off the grid to stay a few nights each on Anguilla and Saba - each one different with Saba being my favorite because it's so different. But be warned, they are not at all convenient to Church! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" />

That comment was for those assuming you were going to a religious service rather that a music venue...

There are several places in Grand Case that have music. Creole rock has good snorkeling also. I knew what you meant about "Church on Sunday". For that, to walk there, Flamingo is your best bet. But trying something new is always great too!

Grand Case is a great place to base yourself. GCBC is great. There are others...Love...Le Petit Hotel..L'Esplanade...all wonderful

Calmos Café in grand case has music Thursdays & Sundays. At least they did in January. Good food & ambiance. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" />

hmmm any yoga classes near gcbc? fitness room? I see octopus diving is nearby...

With every thing you want I would just stay put at the Flamingo. Use the Royal Palm fitness room with the yoga classes. Snorkel out front and rent a car to keep mobile. Diving is just steps away with Dive Adventures at www.stmaartendive.com

I think the Royal Palm fitness room is no longer there?

Was there this last May/June. Just scaled down.

Huhm, OK, I thought someone said that it was gone totally.

Nope. Was there when I was there.

GCBC has a small fitness room, although I have never used it. Not sure what's in there.

snorkeling off beach really sucks at flamingo. I'm not brave enough to go out beyond the rocks by myself....

The breakwater on the Simpson Bay Resort side of the Flamingo/SBR beach is really pretty good for St Maarten standards. lots of morays and colorful fish. Some large fish and many small ones. Even seen turtles there.

I think GC Beach Club has a small workout room. Email and ask them.

Not only does Calmos have music but Blue Martini does as well. Rainbow did, not sure if they still do, have music. Just check all the websites for info. Love is a great bar on the beach. Then there are the LOLOs for inexpensive food along with moderate restaurants and high end gourmet.

When we stayed there on our 2nd week on island we didn't even use the rental car, just walked everywhere. There's even a bar there (can't remember name at the moment) where all the waiters & bartenders go after their shift that stays open until morning.