TravelTalkOnline Forums Travel and Vacation Forums St. Maarten - St. Martin Looking for new adventures

We have vacationed on the French side of Saint Martin for many years. Looking to try a different location that would have a similar atmosphere and vibe. Any recommendations for smaller non-chain resort similar to Grand Case Beach Club. We love and will return to St. Martin but looking to try something different this summer.

Are you looking to stay on the French side? I've never stayed at Grand Case Beach Club, but La Vista and La Vista Beach Resort are small and not a chain, on the Dutch side.

Georgia,

I’m thinking you would enjoy the GCBC. If you ever want a few extra days on island and after all the French side issues are totally resolved you should try it for a couple of nights.

We parked our car when we checked in and didn’t use it again until we checked out and headed for the airport. It’s NOT AI but has its own Iovely beach areas, pool, water sports and activities, restaurant and bar with beach service and is a reasonable stroll to most of Grand Case.

We usually stay on French side but I should of clarified we are looking to experience a different island.
Thanks Jennifer

Pat,
Yes we have a.ways stayed at GCBC and venture out to other beaches during the day and evening at GCBC. We love it here but wanting to try another island from someone’s recommendation
Thanks
Jennifer

One day I'll convince David to do that

You might want to try Iles des Saintes (Terre de Haute), part of Guadalupe. I've had many pleasant day trips to the island and we were going to go there for an extended stay after Irma cancelled our GCBC trip, but Maria dictated otherwise. It is more difficult to get to, but certainly worth it if you plan to stay awhile. As is Grand Case, this is a good place for eating, swimming and relaxing--perhaps a more gentile, self contained, Grand Case.

Of course, Tahiti has a French flavor, but is kind of pricey. Could be a relatively long trip, unless your a west coaster.

Good luck in your search.

Yes I am trying to convince Rob, LOL! That’s why I’m asking for recommendations. I would have some suggestions to persuade him. We will also be looking for some time at GCBC too.

Jennifer

St. John.

If cost is not a primary issue you could try nearby St. Barthelemy. Expensive, but some very nice people there, great beaches, and a perceived lower crime rate than on St. Martin. There are two clothing optional beaches there on the south side of the island, but the beach we fell in love with is St. Jean Beach which is near the little airport and a shorter distance from the Gustavia port. The Nikki Beach Bar there definitely has a cool vibe to it, but you'll need reservations in advance if you are going there on a weekend. Another island farther away on the southern end of the Leeward islands is Martinique, but IMO it's not quite as friendly there as St. Martin or St. Barts. It's also smart to polish up on your 'french' when on Martinique. The locals very much appreciate it when tourists from North America try to speak the language. Never been to Guadalupe (it's on the list), but I heard it is also very nice so someday we'll get there. Is this sort of what you're looking for?

Yes. I have research thata lot. It probably be my next adventure. But takes 2 days to get to and come back.

Wendelk

Why 2 days? Is it farther than Anguilla to SXM?

It's all about the flights

SammyM,

Yes, you gave me some options to look into. St. Barthelemy might be a little pricey for us but gonna see what it has to offer.

Glad to help out. If you choose St. Bart's, here's a few tips to consider. You can still fly into SXM and take a taxi to the port in Philipsburg. You can take the Great Bay Express to St. Bart's which is about a 40 minute ferry boat ride. They will take any luggage you have, and they even give you a small bottle of water. But, the ride can be a bit 'choppy' depending upon the seas so bring some peppermints along if you get a queasy stomach. Next, you can get a rental car at a decent rate delivered right to you at the port in Gustavia. Never take a taxi on St. Bart's (they're hard to find and outrageously expensive). I would suggest going the AirBnB route (or Vrbo) to secure your lodging. Most of the hotels charge prices that are way too high ($1,000 a night and higher is not uncommon here). And, be sure the place that you select has parking for their guests. Finally, invest in a nice beach umbrella and some good beach towels and a small travel cooler before you go. Most of the beaches have no facilities, and the ones that do are very high priced. Bringing your drinks and snacks is a smart move and will save you a few euros. Euros are the standard currency here, so get some in advance in addition to using a credit card. Personally, I still prefer St. Martin but St. Bart's is beautiful and worth a try as an alternate destination.

SammyM,
Thanks for all the info. I'm gonna share with my husband and see what he thinks and start looking at VRBO and AirBnB! LOL, you never know we might just stick with St. Martin after all.
Jennifer