After over 50 visits to SXM over 20 years, the rate of change in island development continues more rapidly than ever. This report covers Orient Beach with several nearby sojourns for dining.

Réserve Naturelle - In the past, environmental protection was largely related to controlling pollution. We were delighted to see evidence that efforts to protect natural environments are now being implemented. While a large natural area was designated in 1997 to protect marine and wetland environments around and adjacent to Orient Bay, there are now signs posted and regulations established. The area between Club Orient and islet of Green Cay, the adjacent salt pond and le Galion bay fall under this designation. Clean up is already underway and plans to restore mangroves have been noted. It is obvious that new regulations are being enforced based on the objections of local residents barred traditional access. Only one jet-ski was noted during the week in front of Club Orient.

Hotels – Major upgrading is planned for several hotels. Palm Court was completely renovated in the past year and now is expected to have a common pool and deck for guests with possible breakfasts being included for the winter season. Promotional rates are being offered until December 22. St Tropez has plans for significant uplift in 2008 and, if as the already completed sample suite, the hotel may well rank among the top selections at Orient Beach. In the interim, the original suites are in nice condition and very reasonably priced under the new management.

Green Cay Village – With all but several villas now with new owners, the Village will be gradually become a villa rental agency without the current hotel services. Extra services will still be available, but on an a-la-carte basis. La Plantation – Esmeralda – Alamanda – Cap-Caraibes and Caribbean Princess were all in excellent condition and sold-out during our visit. Recent clients report that the new bedding at la Plantation was a big plus. Villas – One of our most requested villas, the Menaddy, has been sold and has been taken off the rental market for renovations. Several new ones were inspected including the luxurious Falerom in the Cul-de-Sac area with worldwide communication features and equipped with electric and water backup systems.

We stayed at Club Orient and were very pleased that the new ownership has maintained the former ambiance along with several improvements, namely the Papagayo restaurant now with a good evening crowd for resort guests. Notable too is the Reception stays open until 9:30 pm for late arrivals. The designated parking area for cars rather than at the units makes the resort more guests friendly. Concern that the dollar based euro pricing would discourage some was obviously unfounded as the resort was entirely sold-out.

Dining – Our first return to Calmos Café in several years exceeded earlier expectations with an excellent light meal in a very pleasant location at the beach. Another fine meal at Poulet d’Orleans on a normally closed Sunday; thanks to Tony who made our special arrangements. Other enjoyable dining at Papagayo, Café Plantation and Ti Bouchon.. all good value.

Nudity .. If there had been an issue about nudity beyond Club Orient; someone forgot to tell us. Beach walks au naturel before 9 am no problem.

As we had 30 clients staying at Orient Beach while we were there, I will simply relate that enjoyed meeting you all.

…Jim