TravelTalkOnline

Monday, July 1

The day began with breakfast at SMYC with Elaine of BillandElaine. She’s been off island for much of the time I was on so I was glad we were able to schedule something. Thanks for meeting with me, Elaine! The breakfast was good, but the company was great!

Time was running out for making my purchases from marquetry artist Jean-Pierre Straub so it was off to Sandy Ground after breakfast. I wanted two pieces; one was framed but the other was not so they didn’t really look like a “pair.” Jean-Pierre will frame the one and ship them to me tomorrow; should arrive in 7-10 days. Can’t wait! I will post a picture when they are received.

I did a bit of driving through Terres Basses and then back through Cupecoy.



This sign is across the street from The Blue Mall. Anyone know what’s happening here? I can’t imagine it will be anything good.



My intention was then to pick up a couple of bags of cat food to take to Bernadine at the rum shop on Paradise Hill. But the sun was out, it was my last day, and the beach was calling. So it was back to Horny Toad for the afternoon, and what a glorious one it was! Just perfect! I have fallen in love with Horny Toad’s location, and actually with the guesthouse itself. I had a very peaceful time there and wouldn’t hesitate to return when I need extra nights before or after Divi.



I decided to stay in the neighborhood for dinner so ventured to The Tides at Mary’s Boon. I had never set foot on this property before and can see why folks are enchanted with it. I was the only person in the restaurant during my dinner, and it was one of the best I had this trip. The roast duck was accompanied by a raspberry sauce, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet-and-sour red cabbage, shredded carrots, and spicy eggplant rounds. Truly an outstanding meal. I asked if they still serve meals on the beach and was told they will do that upon request.



Tuesday, July 2

Travel day no. 1. I woke up early and went out to the retaining wall to sit and watch Simpson Bay wake up. It was peaceful and beautiful. The cruise ship managed to not run in to LaVista.



My first leg, SXM – MIA, was the only portion of this year’s trip on which I couldn’t get first class; I left on the American 3:15 PM flight. When reserving a room at Miami International Hotel, I asked for the largest room possible and did not request a senior discount. My room was actually a decent size, much to my surprise. Dinner was at the rooftop restaurant and was overpriced and mediocre.

Wednesday, July 3

The last two legs were MIA – DFW – PDX. Flights were uneventful, and I was home by 3 PM. This reminded me I was back in the Pacific Northwest; not sure which Washington mountain this is.



Wrap-up

Traffic: With the exception of the construction at the Marigot round-about, I thought the traffic this year was the best / easiest it’s been in several years.

Sponsors: Great service from Sharon, Queen of SXM, and Lesley Bruce of Kenny’s. Was unable to use Jeannie of Shop ‘n Drop. She told me Divi makes it very difficult for her as they won’t allow her to use the parking lot; you can imagine her having to carry cases of water or adult beverages up/down those hills. Shame on Divi!

Weather: Hands down, the wettest June in my seven years of traveling in that month. I understand it’s hurricane season but have not before experienced the level of storms that occurred this June. There was still enough sun that I came home with a tan; I would have preferred fewer stormy days, however, not that I had anything to say about it.

Divi: Other than the water on the floor upon check-in, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. Work on the landscaping was ongoing, and maintenance appears to be the same. Kathy and Dave checked out a day early, and work on the trim around the door and moulding inside their unit began as soon as they checked out. Housekeeping was a little sketchy the last week; both “D” and I didn’t get our full cleaning on the last Sunday (occurred after I complained) or the last Wednesday (occurred Thursday that week). Ate at SeaBreeze and Toucan’s only once each. Toucan’s was OK; salad dressing at SeaBreeze was too vinegary for my taste.

Forgot to say on previous trip reports:

Ruby Bute insisted we each take a print of her work when we visited at her home. This is the third time I’ve visited her and the third time she gave everyone something. This is her way of giving back.

“D” was looking for unusual gifts depicting cats or dogs to give to her pet sitter. When visiting Tijon, Cyndi showed her a stuffed Arawak dog along with a card talking about the dogs’ origins. “D” was delighted with this find.

What were the highlights?

I hope “D” doesn’t mind my quoting her, but this is what she emailed to me:

“Last night finally had some free time to read your last trip report and it made me start reviewing what my favorite things were. Decided I really didn't have a favorite beach or restaurant. Each beach had something different to offer and enjoy: peace and tranquility, people to watch, challenge getting in or out of the water, local food or fancy food and drinks, good snorkeling, or just nice warm water. For me the one feature on this trip that rose above average was snorkeling at Divi and also the drift snorkel with Capt. Alan on Green Key Reef. Couldn't choose between Fusion, Fig, Karacter, or Rare for dinners and might even include Bavaria; lost track of lunches as there were so many good ones. I thought we crammed in a good mix of activity and down time.”

For me, as in dustinb’s report, it was the people. I’m glad “D” could come with me this year (we agree we are compatible travelers) and enjoyed doing things with Divi neighbors Kathy and Dave; they are delightful folks. I also found it rewarding visiting with those who live on the island: the artistry and wisdom of Ruby Bute; the talent and gentleness of Jean-Pierre Straub; Bernadine Ali’s dedication to animals at the expense of taking care of herself; the successful result of following their dream experienced by John and Cyndi Berglund of Tijon; and of course, Elaine of BillandElaine. Without these experiences, visiting SXM would just be a lot of great food and beautiful beaches. There’s nothing wrong with that, of course, but the people greatly enhance the SXM experience, at least for me.

Until next year . . . .