Does anyone have any experience visiting the island of Saba in the Netehrlands Antilles? A friend of mine went there recently and is raving about the people, the scenery and the diving. Would you recommend it for a visit? Any tips would be appreciated.

TTT

I go to Saba yearly for a long weekend. I would suggest it to those who enjoy tranquility, a slow pace, friendly people, diving, hiking, relaxing, reading, etc.<BR><BR>It's not for those searching for night life, shopping, or beaches.<BR><BR>If you enjoy the aforementioned things on a trip, by all means go...it's a great island! There just isn't a lot to keep you busy for too many days at a time (hence my long weekend trips). It's for that reason that a lot of people do SXM and go to Saba for a day or two.<BR><BR>Also, if you are a scuba diver, then it's a must. I can recommend some places to stay if you are interested. Good luck in your decision.<BR><BR>

Is it true about the landing in Saba if you are flying in?<BR>I read about it (I think in Fodor's) but wanted to know if its as dramatic as its made to seem.<BR>

I have to land there quite often. Yes, it's pretty dramatic for both landing and take-off. The runway is 800 feet long, dropping off over cliffs on either end.<BR><BR>However, believe it or not, the aircraft usually only uses half the runway upon landing. Take-off is exciting, too. You sit at the very end while they put the aircraft in full throttle and bolt off. <BR><BR>Keep in mind, though....they've never had a serious accident over there. It's definintely a thrill to write home about. They even sell t-shirts on the island that say "I Survived the Saba Landing." It's supposedly the smallest runway in the world and a "must" experience for any traveler.<BR><BR>

Statia, I would ad to your comment about the beach, there aren't any! But the the flip side I think they are rated in the top three for diving!<BR>Ronnie

Yes, Ronnie, you are right......the tiny beach on Saba only shows up once in awhile. However, the diving is incredible. JFK Jr. used to dive there from what I understand. My husband loves the diving on Saba, but the depths are a bit much for this "more shallow" water diver.<BR><BR><BR>

Have been to Saba 4 times, and would recommend it for divers and for anyone looking for a relaxing/hassle free vacation - as long as you don't mind the quiet. There are good hiking trails, the people are very friendly, and you are definitely away from mass tourism. By the way, the runway at the airport is short, but it is about 1,300 feet long, rather than the 800 mentioned above.

I stand corrected. Yes, Howard it is 1300 feet, rather than 800. It DOES seem shorter when you land, though, doesn't it?...ha. It is also officially the shortest commercial runway in the world.<BR><BR>So, Hiho, have you decided to give it a try?

Thank you all for your responses. I have decided to go - in late Novmeber. Will be splitting time up - about a week in Saba and 3 days in St. Barts (for some beach time).

just wanted to say that I had a wonderful time on Saba. The people were very friendly, and although quiet, I did not lack for things to do. Spent much time talking to people who love there. Would highly recommend.

Glad you enjoyed it Hiho. I recently went myself (for some R&amp;R). It truly is a wonerful island, and so vastly different from most Caribbean destinations.<BR><BR>

Saba is great!!!!!!!!!<BR>Friendly people, great diving, hiking etc.<BR><BR>Would recommend Juliana's for accommodation and Sea Saba if you are a diver.<BR><BR>You will enjoy it but don't spend more than 1 week. Anything longer than 1 week and you begin to get bored.<BR><BR>If you do not want to go to Saba, then try Anguilla. Friendly people, nice beaches, great food etc. Also limited Diving if you are interested. Can also provide accommodation and diving ops if you would like.<BR><BR>Have fun in whatever you do.<BR>

Statia:<BR><BR>Can you tell me where they sell the &quot;survived the landing&quot; t-shirts? We went over for the day this summer and I wanted one of the t-shirts and couldn't find them. Maybe if you have an e-mail address of the shop I could send for one. <BR><BR>BTW, Saba is a Gem!! Our only regret is we didn't stay for a couple of days. We are going back for another day trip there next year since we only made it halfway up the mountain last time. I talked with the Winair pilot when we landed and he said the runway was 1300 feet with 1,000 usable. But you are right they only need about half of it. It is a thrilling landing and take off.<BR><BR>Steve

Hi Steve,<BR><BR>Sorry I only just saw your request today. I have only seen the landing t-shirts at a little local aritsan shop in The Bottom. Ask your taxi driver where they can be found next time you're there. I'm sure he'll find one for you if they are still available.