We (me, husband and a newlywed couple) flew on Continental July 6 out of Newark. Four hour nonstop flight to SXM.<br><br>We rented a car from Alain Arnell and the pick up at the airport went smoothly. Very nice people and paid $99 for the week.<br><br>We stayed at the Belair Beach Hotel. I enjoyed the beach while the others went scubadiving everyday. The relaxing was so needed. The people were very nice and helpful. And the room was perfect.<br><br>We went shopping at Ram's (thanks to ttol board) and found everything we needed.<br><br>As for the driving...maybe it's because I live in Brooklyn and work in NYC...but I thought the driving was normal. It could also be because it's low season.<br><br>We ate at several of the suggested restaurants. Both Ric's place and Peg Leg Pub were favorites but we also enjoyed the Boathouse. One restaurant on the french side we tried was Le Vie en Rose (sis-in-law went there 20 yrs ago on honeymoon) had lunch there.<br><br>We shopped on Front Street and stopped by the Greenhouse for a few drinks and a game of pool.<br><br>Towards the end of our trip we snorkeled at Pinel Island (great) and did a sunset cruise (also nice).<br><br>Our return flight was a little longer since we stopped in Antigua before heading back to Newark. Customs/Immigration went so well...no lines.<br><br>Everyone loved our trip and wanted to stay a little longer. We like to try different places every year, however, if we were to return to anyplace it would be SXM.