It was close to Christmastime… As we discussed possible gift ideas for each other, St. Martin kept coming up over and over again. The more we spoke about it, the more we were tempted to try to make the seemingly impossible happen<br><br>Location: Orient Bay, Green Cay Village Studio #2<br>Rental: Marius / St. Louis Car Rental<br>Dates: April 16th-22nd.<br><br> On April 16th, our flight landed in Sint Maarten around 10:30 pm or so. Cleared customs quickly, and Marius from St. Louis rental was patiently waiting for us… even after our flight had been delayed for over 8 hours! Marius drove us to his office, where we filled out the appropriate paperwork and we’re off to Green Cay Village in a snap. Upon arrival at Green Cay Village, Stephan (security guard) helped us with our luggage, gave us the alarm password, and turned over the key. We pretty much dropped the bags on the floor and headed out to Portofino’s in Grand Case, where we were hoping they could accommodate us for a late night dinner. <br><br> Ivan (owner at Portofino’s), is an absolutely wonderful host. He served us a dinner at 11:15 pm, made up of crustini, a thin crust pizza, and a bottle of wine. Ivan remembered us from our first trip to the island… only 6 months ago. We spoke of recent events, and his motorcycle accident. He showed us his damaged motorcycle, and filled us in on all the details. Ivan is okay… just a rather large scar on his arm. We also had the pleasure of meeting his friendly dog, Buster. After finishing dinner, Ivan invited us up to the bar area where he pulled out a bottle of his home made banana rhum. He filled two shot glasses and left the bottle on the bar, saying “take as much as you’d like”. After much good conversation, food, and drink, the long 18-hour journey to the friendly island finally caught up to us. We were ready to head back to the villa for a good night’s rest. <br><br> Wednesday morning we awoke to a beautiful sunny day. We decided to drive into Marigot for breakfast at either Creparie or Zee Best. We were unable to find Creparie, and did end up finding Zee Best very easily. We enjoyed our first fresh croissants and chocolate filled pastry with coffee and juice. Our garcon was actually the lead singer and guitarist of a band called 4:20. We ended up checking them out at the Kon Tiki foam party later in the week. Anyway, we ordered a crepe filled with bacon and egg. We have to agree with the latest comments regarding Zee Best. The pastries and coffee were good, however the cooked food wasn’t Zee Best. While in Marigot, we noticed that the open-air market was in full effect (in fact much more active now then in October). We shopped for some of our favorite banana vanilla rhum (sampled a few more flavors), bought some jewelry, fruit, and cinnamon. On the way to the villa, we stopped at Match for some needed groceries. We picked up some brie, gouda and a cheese we haven’t tried before (forget the name, something like Apelezza or something like that, wish we remembered because it was outstanding)! Now we were ready to go to the beach, so at this point, we left to drop everything off at the villa. <br><br> We were now off to Dawn Beach to find the famous Mrs. B’s. We weren’t able to make it there during our last trip, so this was truly a treat. We’ve read a lot about Alanna (the manager who is no longer there) and were sorry to not get the chance to meet her. However the people working there took great care of us. After enjoying our cheeseburger, ribs, and Caribs, we walked down the beach towards the rocks. There we camped out for a few hours and enjoyed the surf and “larger than Orient” wave action. <br><br> After an afternoon on Dawn Beach, we decided it was time to head back to the villa to get ready for dinner in Grand Case. We relaxed a little in our outdoor Jacuzzi, then changed and headed into Grand Case to Le Cottage for dinner. Le Cottage was good, but very over rated. Renee had the lamb, and I didn’t think it even rated in our top 15. I had the beef tenderloin, which wasn’t bad. The desert was good… a chocolate desert of some kind. Service here was excellent, but there are too many restaurants on the island that offer both great service and superior food. We decided that we would pass on Le Cottage next time on the island. After dinner, we headed over to the Dutch side and ended up at Dolphin Casino where we enjoyed free drinks while we lost $20. Not Bad!<br><br> Thursday, we decided to head to Pinel Island for the day. We tried to find some sort of bakery / breakfast place in Cul de Sac (on the way to Pinel), but found nothing. We took the first ferry over, and ended up planting our butts on some beach chairs for the morning. There we enjoyed some fruit, and did some swimming. Around noon, we were getting hungry so we decided to head over to one of the restaurants (the one on the right this time). Renee ordered the grilled Red Snapper (a first for us), and that was outstanding! Zach had ribs, which were very good. After lunch, we decided to hike to the other side of the island. We hiked to the far right side first. The beach looked gorgeous from a distance, but once we’d arrived – the blue tarps and garbage didn’t make for the atmosphere we were looking for. We then hiked to the top of Pinel Island and were rewarded with a spectacular view and breeze. On towards the deserted beach where the hermit lives… We set up a makeshift shelter, built from a couple of sticks, Renee’s wrap, and our cooler and backpack (we would have done well on Survivor). This provided us with some well-needed shade, as it can become quire hot in the sun. There we enjoyed a bottle of wine and some cheese; then took lots of pictures. Upon returning to Cul de Sac, we drove over to Orient and saw our friend Gregory. We sat and talked for awhile, catching up on lost time. Renee suddenly realized that our camera was missing.. Gregory jumped right up and ran over to Bibi (jet ski guy), and had Bibi launch a jet ski. Bibi took Zach on the ride of his life at speeds unknown to mankind, to the backside of Pinel to locate and retrieve the camera. We were unsuccessful in finding it. Zach attempted to ask the hermit, but he wasn’t answering his calls.[img]/images/icons2/laugh.gif[/img] <br><br> Back on Orient, we met Gregory’s friends, Don & Sandy from North Carolina. There it was decided that Gregory would cook an authentic island meal for us all. We had heard that he was a wonderful chef. After cleaning up, the 3 of us drove to Belair on the Dutch side of the island for dinner. Gregory cooked mackerel & salt fish, plantains, salad, potato salad, carrots, and a starchy white vegetable… What a feast!!! He was in fact, a great cook! [img]/images/icons2/clapping.gif[/img] We were tired after a long day and a filling meal, so we returned to Green Cay for the night. <br><br> Friday was our day trip to Saba. If anyone has the chance to explore this slice of Caribbean beauty, don’t miss out on it. There are no beaches. It is heaven for scuba divers and hikers. We booked our trip on “The Edge” (high speed ferry), which left from Bobby’s Marina near the Atrium (Dutch Side). The ferry left promptly at 9am for a 1 ½ hour journey to Saba. The waves were moderate, and lots of fun. If you do get sea sick easily, this may not be the best choice of transportation to Saba, and we would recommend flying instead. Upon arrival, we took a taxi to the bottom of Mt. Scenery, visited the Saba lace and spice rhum store. <br>Should anyone visit this store for lace and rhum, one thing to keep in mind is that the 3 women inside the store are all in competition with each other… They each individually make their own lace and Saba Spice –using their own ingredients. I wish that we would have known that, prior to going. They weren’t extremely friendly and it took a minute to figure out what was going on – as they were all talking at the same time. However, all of their lace is beautiful and the Saba Spice is delicious!!! <br>As we began our hike into the clouds, to the peak of Mt. Scenery… We were surrounded by lush, exotic plants. Birds-of-paradise with flowers, huge philodendrons, [img]/images/icons2/love.gif[/img]bromeliads, banana trees, schefflera trees, ferns, etc…The ultimate experience for plant lovers![img]/images/icons2/love.gif[/img] Elevation at the peak is slightly about 2800 feet, and there was no view because not only were we in the clouds, but it was an overcast day to begin with. The air is very thin and your body needs to adjust every so often. This is a difficult hike, so being in shape is a plus, as well as having some water with you. We made it to the top in a little over an hour, and enjoyed the sounds and sites of the rainforest, actually capturing some of the experience on video. We hiked down the mountain (legs shaking the whole way down[img]/images/icons2/crazy.gif[/img]) and stopped in at Tropics Café for lunch. Renee had the beer battered fish (which was ok), and Zach had the philly cheesesteak sandwich (good). The creamy curry salad dressing was fantastic. We cooled off with Saba Spice Colada’s (yum). After lunch we caught a taxi back down to the ferry and left for St. Martin. <br><br> We arrived back at the villa with just enough time to clean up and head out to the TTOL Pahty at Calmo’s Café in Grand Case. We weren’t sure what the turnout would be like, based on previous party’s that were and weren’t successful that we had read about on the message board. Well, we showed up and this place was rockin! [img]/images/icons2/groovin.gif[/img] Several people knew us right away from our photo online, and we were warmly welcomed with open arms and lots of hugs. We met Contessa, Glitter Goddess, Hank & Aleta, Dick & Bev, Mr. St. Martin and his lovely wife Judy, Hondo(did you ever get that vollyball game going?)[img]/images/icons2/grin.gif[/img], Steve from Montana, Canadian Chick (Danielle) did we ever toast??!![img]/images/icons2/laugh.gif[/img] and Lisa, Paul & Deb, Frenchy & [img]/images/icons2/woof.gif[/img]Moose, Carol & Ed, … Also, Marius & his wife and their friend, Don & Sandy, and Gregory joined us for the pahty too. There were a few more people (sorry if we missed your names). It’s difficult to keep track of 30 new faces! Mr. St. Martin gave us the pleasure of trying his world famous Captain Jack’s special[img]/images/icons2/cheers.gif[/img], which was out of this world!! [img]/images/icons2/grin.gif[/img] [img]/images/icons2/thumbsup.gif[/img] [img]/images/icons2/thumbsup.gif[/img] Thank’s again Jack! <br>We really enjoyed ourselves and were sorry that we had to leave so soon. We were just exhausted [img]/images/icons2/crazy.gif[/img]from our trip to Saba. After our visit to Calmo’s and the warm welcome we received from all of the TTOLers, we realized how lucky we are to have met such a fantastic community of people. [img]/images/icons2/smile.gif[/img] Contessa is all that we thought she would be and more [img]/images/icons2/grin.gif[/img][img]/images/icons2/clapping.gif[/img]… She's an amazing lady and has such a wonderful energy about her and is so down to earth! Meeting Contessa was certainly a highlight for us! As well as meeting some of the other TTOLers and the pahty at Calmo’s! [img]/images/icons2/clapping.gif[/img]<br><br> On Saturday, we picked up some croissants in Grand Case at a small bakery and headed to Orient for the day. We staked out a spot [img]/images/icons2/umbrella.gif[/img]and Contessa came right over to say hello. A little later, we headed over to the TTOL flag to hang out with everyone. By this time it was early afternoon and we were getting hungry. We hadn’t hit Pedro’s yet and wanted to taste test the ribs once again. Now… we know there have been a lot of posts regarding the best ribs on the island, and everyone has their own opinion for sure. Well, the spicy ribs at Pedro’s are in fact the BEST RIBS ON THE ISLAND! (to us) But, you have to order them spicy. That’s the trick [img]/images/icons2/wink.gif[/img]. Also, great French fries and rice and beans. <br><br> Earlier in the week, we had made reservations at Sebastiano’s in Grand Case. We asked for a window seat -per a recommendation by Jim and Janet [img]/images/icons2/clapping.gif[/img]. On the way into Grand Case around 8pm or shortly after, we noticed fireworks coming from the beach. Apparently there was a wedding at L’Amandier. So, we pulled over to watch the brief fireworks display. We were about 20 minutes late for our reservation at Sebastiano’s and luckily for us, they saved our table. A window seat here is a must have! (and reservations help to assure that you receive those seats). Service was exceptional and food fantastic. The ambiance was just what we were looking for. Renee decided to try the Tagliatelle alla Sebastiano, which was good. Zach had the lamb and said that it was outstanding! They have a very extensive menu and it was difficult for us choose from… Got to enjoy some more of the fireworks from our seat… what a nice treat!<br><br>After dinner, we decided to check out Bliss and then Dolphin Casino. Bliss was ok… we thought l’Alibi was better (6 mos ago). But the Espresso Martini was fabulous! [img]/images/icons2/cheers.gif[/img]<br> <br>At Dolphin, Zach was the (well sort of big) winner!!! He doesn’t have too much luck at the casino’s [img]/images/icons2/laugh.gif[/img]… and ended up winning 300 quarters, then 120, then 80.[img]/images/icons2/joy.gif[/img] We enjoyed ourselves and headed back to Orient Bay for some sleep.<br><br>Sunday, we had intentions of heading to Anguilla for some snorkeling and beaching. Much to our disappointment, it was raining that day [img]/images/icons2/sad.gif[/img]. We decided to head out there anyway ~ because perhaps it would clear up?! <br>We drove into Marigot and were walking to the ferry… when we realized that we didn’t have the secret snorkel directions with us!!! [img]/images/icons2/yikes.gif[/img] Those were very important… So, we agreed to drive back to the villa (maybe the directions were there, if not to use the internet). Got to the villa… no directions, weather was still dreary and not in our favor… We mutually decided that perhaps Anguilla just wasn’t meant to be for us that day. ::Have to mention that as we got in our car in Marigot, a car pulled up next to us with a couple (man and woman inside). They were trying to talk to us, and that they did…. To make a long story short they were part of the scratch ticket crew… [img]/images/icons2/frank.gif[/img]yes, trying to sell us a timeshare. We should have known when he asked for our ages and if we were married. It was early and we didn’t realize it. But the man was very good at what he did, and very rude when we declined [img]/images/icons2/thumbsdown.gif[/img]. Beware of the scratch ticket crew!!!:: [img]/images/icons2/frank.gif[/img][img]/images/icons2/devil.gif[/img][img]/images/icons2/frank.gif[/img]<br><br>Because we didn’t go to Anguilla, we were determined to do something else (especially if we could try to snorkel)… It was too late for Pinel, so we decided to go to Orient and catch a jet ski ride to Green Key. <br>By the way, the beach area facing Orient Bay was gone… and there was a sandbar there similar to Pinel out in front of the island (but not nearly as nice). We told Bibi to pick us up in 2 hours. Big mistake! There was no shelter, water was too rough to swim in – and we couldn’t even lay out comfortably, as we were getting sandblasted… literally!!! Now we understand what those windy days are like [img]/images/icons2/laugh.gif[/img]. After about 1 hour, we couldn’t take it anymore… We tried to collaborate and figure out how we would get off of Green Key, knowing that Bibi wasn’t coming for another 45 minutes or more!!! [img]/images/icons2/crazy.gif[/img] Laughing at the situation, we pulled out two of Renee’s wraps and held them behind us with our arms outstretched and let the wind blow over the wraps… it was quite invigorating and we laughed some more… again this was our interpretation of Survivor [img]/images/icons2/devil.gif[/img]and apparently it was working because in the distance coming from Orient, we could see a jet ski heading for us!!! [img]/images/icons2/joy.gif[/img] YAY! Again, the wraps worked!!! We signaled Bibi for help and let him know we were ready to get off the small deserted island of Green Key. Thank you Bibi!!! [img]/images/icons2/kiss.gif[/img]<br><br>We went to Grand Case to search for Ruptaire de Pirate[img]/images/icons2/devil.gif[/img]. Parked the car and walked around, looking at all of the menu’s displayed. We were torn between Bistrot Caribes and Ruptaire de Pirate and had Ruptaire de Pirate been open on Sundays, we would have gone there. Instead we decided on Bistro Caribes and what a WONDERFUL choice that was! Saw Contessa, Canadian Chick & Lisa, the couple from Iowa, and took a few pic’s. We enjoyed the best meal on the island (well one of them) [img]/images/icons2/laugh.gif[/img] Renee had the Sauteed Sea scallops drizzled with garlic butter [img]/images/icons2/oink.gif[/img] – that was out of this world!!!! Zach had the pork chops, and thought they were good. The dessert was a chocolate with warm sauce inside…[img]/images/icons2/love.gif[/img] WOW, was that delicious!!! Free ginger rhum shots [img]/images/icons2/cheers.gif[/img]complimented the dinner. Tired and full we left and retired to the Jacuzzi and then to bed. What a wonderful last dinner on the island![img]/images/icons2/hairy.gif[/img]<br><br>Last day… [img]/images/icons2/sad.gif[/img]Monday. Packed up, went to Orient[img]/images/icons2/umbrella.gif[/img] to catch some last rays. Then gathered our things at the villa and headed to Mrs. B’s for a couple of cheeseburgers to go, and finally to Juliana. <br><br>Disappointed that we didn’t have enough time to: We didn’t get to go to Under The tree. We went on a Sunday and they were closed. [img]/images/icons2/sad.gif[/img] –next time! And Ruptaire de Pirate will also be for next time. As well as Marius’s family’s restaurant (Countryside Bar & Grill), Anguilla, Creparie, Baywatch (closed for breakfast), Peg Leg Pub (sorry Neil, we packed too much in this trip anyway), SSBB (we’ll see a plane land someday), Rainbow (for drinks and a sunset), Happy Bay (made it to Baie Rouge but it was too late in the day to venture over the rocks), Ma Dou Dou[img]/images/icons2/madoudou.gif[/img] factory was closed, and Hideaway, which we also didn’t get to. So many places to visit, and so little time! Also disappointed that we didn’t have more time to talk in greater length to some of the TTOL’ers… specifically Contessa & Canadian Chick. <br><br>Thank you to everyone who assisted in making our trip a memorable one. Without your knowledge, experience, and good vibes, we’d be walking around in circles. Much respect to TTOL and all of the wonderful people of this beautiful island! [img]/images/icons2/cheers.gif[/img]<br><br>Renee & Zach<br> <br>PS The villa was studio #2 (202)... right next door to the Reception desk . (we had known there may not be as much privacy from one of your earlier posts, and you were right on!). <br>The kitchen was openair right inside the main entrance area (of our studio). Villa 4 had a similar entrance (not openair, but connected to our studio) and we were divided by wooden lattice and 2 heavy curtains... <br>In comparison to villa 16, there was a HUGE difference! We didn't have maid service this time, nor did we request that the fridge be stocked... We basically went as basic as possible.<br><br>The refrigerator was smaller than before. It had a freezer, but not too much room for groceries inside lower part. There was a coffee maker, filters, paper towels, dishes of course and blender. A sink, and two burners - no oven. Also, no hibachi. <br>The bedroom was A/C. and the doors opened to the deck (which didn't get much sun) with jacuzzi and 2 lawn chairs and umbrella. The bathroom also opened to the deck.<br>Our view? None really. The deck was facing the villa's on the hill. So, we could see villa 16 and 18's deck, higher up - as well as some that were closer. The jacuzzi and deck were slightly covered by greenery, but you were very close to the reception desk, road and security. <br><br>This met our needs, but after experiencing the privacy, view and freedom at 16... It was certainly a big difference.<br><br>One positive aspect of the studio, was the jacuzzi. It was the same size jacuzzi as in 18 & 20. Nights were cooler than in October and we made good use of that ammenity.<br><br>Also, there was no off street parking for our studio. Parking was right on the street next to the internet cafe.<br>(hope this wasn't too long)... I felt elaborating in detail was necessary. <br>Conclusion: Not much privacy, no view, and not a place to stay if you plan to cook.<br>But nice if you are looking for a more economical place to stay and have the luxary of a private jacuzzi.<br><br>