Reviewers Rating: 
Great
February 5-12,2001...was an excellent time of year to visit St. Martin/St.Maarten. An interesting and historically colourful island that is now governed by two nations. The north side is a French colony and the south belongs to the Dutch. Although the influence of the mother country is clearly in the frame the essence of the picture is an unmistakable West Indian Caribbean melting pot of music, languages, food, architecture,and customs. Although the prices are advertised in French francs,and Antillean guilders, the US dollar is readily accepted anywhere. This island displays very little to no poverty and with all the conveniences of a mainland big city. It is a regular port of call for the cruise ships, and boasts several marinas for the yachting enthusiasts. New Arrivees must beware...Clear blue skies, hot sun, warm ocean breezes,camouflage the intense rays. Take heed of your inner voice..the lightbulb that flickers & flashes'block...block...block'! Most humans are well educated, and aware of the 'block brigade' but there are always a few 'die hards' that seem to believe their skin is immune and therefore needs no protection...beware, and BE AWARE. Most "north" North Americans are 'ever in a hurry to bake their bods too soon,too fast..and end up suffering half of their holiday. We dream all winter of getting away to escape the grey bleak skies,damp,cold air, chilled bones.....and the first rays of sun on unprotected, sensitive skin, attracts the ultra-viotets like a magnet. For me... I have basked,baked, suffered, learned, and now observe the errors of my fellow humans...
My arrival to this sparkling 'gem of the sea' was long overdo. I needed this hot,bright sun-break for months. My life had become overwhelmed with descisions and responsibilities...this was the moment I had only dreamed of as a holiday was not in my cards. That proved to be the best kind..My first surprise was the incedibly short runway skimming over the heads of unsuspecting bathers on the fine white sands of Maho Bay Beach. The two minute busride to my hotel got me thinking of the implications. As I entered the grand foyer of Marble, luxurious rattan, granite, and tropical accents, I quickly forgot the proximity of the skybirds. The newly Renovated Maho Beach Resort&Casino was an excellent choice. The rooms were very spacious and elegantly furnished, very clean and most with balconies that overlooked either the lush gardens, pool or sea. The pool was exceptional with rushing waterfall,very warm fresh water, swim up bar,which is always an asset for the all-inclusive and meetin! g other guests. If you opt for the AI the food is superior, and more than worth the $50.00US per day. If you would rather try your luck exploring other eating establishments you won't be disappointed. The choice is unlimited and the prices vary from reasonable to very expensive. (But that of course is relevant to where you come from and what you personally consider expensive for your lifestyle.)The best deals going are in the casinos...you are drawn in by the "$10.00 sumptuous buffet" If you are an eater and not a gambler you will always be a winner. My last night on the island I witnessed a woman win $376,000US. at the Princess Casino. That was a highlight for me as I tend to be more of an eater. That night it only cost me $150.00 for my $10.00 buffet. But the Casino kindly offered me a free taxi back to my hotel.The hospitality made up for my losses.
Since the Maho Resort is located on the south Dutch side I was tempted to rent a car for a few days to explore and experience the influence of two countries in one small land mass. I had heard of their secluded coves and 37ish sandy beaches. Not to mention the famous Orient Beach that was a must.
The Island was hit pretty bad by the hurricane of '99 as were many others, but on the whole this entire island has made a fantastic come back. There continues to be repairs,and rebuilding as it will take time to bring all back to its former glory but ongoing efforts and positive minds leave no doubt in my mind it won't be long before it will be hard to get reservations at any hotel, resort, villa or the like...and if you do it won't be for bargain prices. I reccommend go now while they are still in the rebuilding mode. Everyone seems to be competetive and the prices are right.
(Review originally posted on March 16, 2001)
jewel
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