This is the first time we have been on island in January. For many ears we were November visitors, which slowly crept into December. Last trip was the two weeks in December 2021 leading up to Christmas.

I was a touch concerned about January and the whole “high season” thing. Nothing to worry about so far! Nowhere near as busy as December was last year. Traffic has been fine, yesterday going through Marigot was actually a breeze. Not sure if it is because it is so soon after the holidays, less cruise ships or the general economic situation, but there are definitely less people on the beach, on the roads and in the restaurants than I expected. Still a good crowd, but not overrun.

I find that the French side has finally made noticeable progress in repairs and clean up from Irma and that the whole island seems cleaner in general. All positives so far, even less scooters zipping by!

What hasn’t changed is the wonderful food and smiling faces.

On to week 2!

Article in today's Herald reporting how high airfares have made it cheaper to book an AI resort with an included airfare package sometimes making the AI only $500 more than just the airfare alone. Reported because of less visitor numbers for many islands....and the AI group kinda just hangs out where they stay

boucharda I agree with your observation on AI with airfare included. When we returned in 2020 after Irma we checked out prices at the resorts that were up and running and found that the prices at Sonesta AI were pretty good and couldn't pass up their deal. We didn't want all inclusive but the prices were the deciding factor. So we took advantage of the free breakfast and explored the off site restaurants for lunches and dinners. It pays to do some homework when travelling.