Thursday 4/30

Not much to say for the day. DH woke and got up super early this morning so he could catch the sunrise with me for the first time this trip and I'm thinking for many years......

Breakfast eaten and showers done, we had some errands to do today so we got that off our list, along with a stop at Le Grande Marche for some additional provisions and by the time we were done 'someone' -whose name shall go unspoken - declared he was hungry and tired in that order.

I decided to spend some time at the pool AGAIN since we could see the waves still pounding Mullet but after about an hour it actually got too hot to enjoy the pool. And the pool water itself is now about the temperature of the tub here in the room. Crazy but it's all good.

We went to Boca Marina on Airport Road this evening. We've had very questionable luck with this place. The first time we went it was okay but they were just opening so we figured we'd cut them some slack and return another time. The second time we went there, everything was wonderful so last April we went there with friends and it was back to being 'iffy' again. After talking to some other guests at the pool today who were there last night and loved it, we decided to return ONE MORE TIME. Tonight the service was spot on, the food was very good and we couldn't have asked for a better location. If only they could be consistent....... Anyway, DH had the surf and turf and I tried the Thermidor. I knew right away it wasn't Antoine's but it was still very good, and smaller in both size and price so I'm very glad I chose it. DH had a mango mousse dressed with fresh whipped cream and strawberries. Way too rich for me but I thought he was going to lick the plate.

So that's our latest day in paradise. The temperature feels warmer than I ever remember it and the Sahara sands are still floating across the ocean and creating this incredible haze but the seaweed does seem to have abated, at least in the areas we've seen up close and personal. Oh, and I'm still waiting for Saba to come back. Today was also one of the Carnival big parades but it was way too hot to even contemplate going and standing in all that heat and waiting for the parade to be done. Maybe next year.......or not!

Dear Pat,

I love your posts!

xoxo
Jo

Thanks for another update. Glad you enjoyed Boco Marina

Thank you both and re Boca - we went with an open mind but based on past experiences I wasn't expecting much. As it turns out, it was a lovely experience. The service staff was friendly and personable and we were seated at a waterside table so once the sun set (we also were able to see that big yellow ball drop below the hills if not directly into the water......) and the outdoor lights were turned on, we got to watch the fish (are they tarpon?) swimming about, too. And before the sun went down, I saw the first jellyfish I've ever seen down here. They've never been prevalent or noticeable in the places we go at the time of year we're here. it truly was a nice evening in every way.

Happy to hear you enjoyed Boca Marina. We tried it for the first time on our trip in March. We enjoyed it so much we returned when our guests arrived. Both visits were consistent. Very good service, pleasant wait staff, and food served piping hot. I hate cold food. And the calamari was delicious. Enjoy the heat. Here in Maine we have not had sun for 8 days and it has been chilly!!

Thanks for reviewing Boca Marine. Might have to put it on our list.

Go to www.nasa.gov if you want to see a video about Sahara dust. It mainly talks about its effects on South America but there are videos showing the clouds from outer space.

I just have to admit this - I'm insanely jealous - you sound like you are having a marvelous time!

We are, Marybeth. We truly are. Today is our last day at the Towers and tomorrow we move on to Beachside Villas for a couple more nights before coming home midweek. I think this has been one of the most enjoyable and most low-key trips we've done in years. Feeling a little sad as the days here dwindle but you can't come back without going home first, right? <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" />

It's gonna be 80 Monday here!!

Good. I'd rather come home to good weather rather than the freezing cold of last December or the darned blizzard of the December before. That's why I've always loved April/may trips.....you always pretty much know what lies ahead and you don't have to worry too much about the weather. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

As we've discussed, I surely wish you a lovely stay at Beachside Villas!!!

TY and I know it's going to be a good time no matter what. I'm in a very positive state of mind. Que sera sera!! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

You are going to love BSV Pat! It's right up your alley for all of the things you like about St Maarten. You'll have the windows wide open, and listen to the waves. So nice there. Great little pool too.....just wish there was a bartender....lol. Guess DH will have to suffice. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

That's why I love to stay next to the pool end, so that's a quicker walk back to the room! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" /> ..plus the all important ladies room--especially important when you're staying hydrated! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

Those last few days are always a "bummer", but with the next trip scheduled, it makes them not too bad. Hope to see you Monday.

4:30ish at the Palms? Still on?