St John Trip Report ~ March 19 - 24 (long, with photos)
Mar 30th, 2009, 07:48 AM
#21
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Hi Kristen,
Thanks so much for sharing your Anguilla pics! It looks gorgeous there! Okay, so now that’s back to the top of my to do list as well! Which hotel was the coral colored one that you stayed at? It looks really nice. Did it have sunset views? Kid friendly? Typically we like to rent villas, but that does look really nice. Did you see any villas along that beach? Do you have a trip report from anguilla? I’d love to hear about it-there weren’t any captions on the pics. Your pics remind me of a cross between Jost (the beaches) and Long Island (the cliffs), but with the mountain views like St. John across the way (looking at St. Maarten). Seems like a nice blend! How kid friendly is Anguilla? I’ve heard mixed things about that.
Thanks so much for sharing your Anguilla pics! It looks gorgeous there! Okay, so now that’s back to the top of my to do list as well! Which hotel was the coral colored one that you stayed at? It looks really nice. Did it have sunset views? Kid friendly? Typically we like to rent villas, but that does look really nice. Did you see any villas along that beach? Do you have a trip report from anguilla? I’d love to hear about it-there weren’t any captions on the pics. Your pics remind me of a cross between Jost (the beaches) and Long Island (the cliffs), but with the mountain views like St. John across the way (looking at St. Maarten). Seems like a nice blend! How kid friendly is Anguilla? I’ve heard mixed things about that.
Mar 30th, 2009, 08:49 AM
#22
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REVISED PHOTO ALBUM LINK BELOW...I didn't realize that a bunch never uploaded!
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?ai...2&l=324876bfcb
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/w...=8IcMWzRu5aM4E
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?ai...2&l=324876bfcb
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/w...=8IcMWzRu5aM4E
Mar 30th, 2009, 09:25 AM
#23
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The hotel we stayed at was Frangipani. We loved it. Though about a year after, it changed management and renovations were done etc. All I know about the new & improved Frangipani is that it is more expensive. Definitely look into it.(www.frangipaniresort.com) They we also building Turtle's Nest next door while we were there and is more condo style (www.turtlesnestbeachresort.com). These are both on Mead's Bay. On Shoal Bay, look into Ku and Shoal Bay Villas. I believe they also just re-did The Rendezvous Bay Hotel/Villas. And they do have villas on the island.
I did do a trip report and just dug it out. Can't find the links on any of the travel boards any more since they have changed formats. I will paste the test in the next post.
It is a very nice blend. it is a quiet island with outsanding beaches, superb food and very friendly people. lots to excplore too. Very quiet and laid back. Most undeveloiped island we have been to though I am sure it has changed a little in the last 5 years. Based on your trip reports, I think this island would appeal to you. I definitely want to go back. And it is great for kids as long as they are content on the beach and in the water!
I did do a trip report and just dug it out. Can't find the links on any of the travel boards any more since they have changed formats. I will paste the test in the next post.
It is a very nice blend. it is a quiet island with outsanding beaches, superb food and very friendly people. lots to excplore too. Very quiet and laid back. Most undeveloiped island we have been to though I am sure it has changed a little in the last 5 years. Based on your trip reports, I think this island would appeal to you. I definitely want to go back. And it is great for kids as long as they are content on the beach and in the water!
Mar 30th, 2009, 09:26 AM
#24
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Let me start by saying that we LOVED Anguilla!
GENERAL COMMENTS:
Beautiful beaches…softest sand I have ever set foot on. Feels like you are walking through powdered sugar.
Nicest, friendliest people I have ever met!
Weather was gorgeous. Scattered clouds and breezy almost everyday. Only was mostly cloudy day during our week stay. There were overnight showers most evenings but it never rained while we were awake.. For most of our stay though the winds really picked up and it felt like we were in Aruba! The temperature reading at the bank always showed 82 or 83 degrees. It felt warmer though (maybe 85) due to the humidity (which wasn’t bad at all).
Goats are everywhere!! I wanted to take a cute little baby home with me.
Amazing restaurants…didn’t have one bad meal.
The island itself on the interior is scrubby with lots of half finished houses. But that only added to its charm.
FRANGIPANI COMMENTS:
Very nice property. Unique, charming architecture. Lots of tropical plants and flowers. Very quiet hotel…often times we had the beach to ourselves. Beach in front of the hotel was wonderful and wide.
Our room (5C) was a little tired and according to the manager, that room along with 5 others will be updated while they are closed this Fall. But overall we liked the room. Had a great view of the beach and water from our balcony.
Staff was very helpful and accommodating. Kareen at the front desk was great!
Hotel provides bathrobes, a fax of the NY Times each morning, a complimentary bottle of rum, and complimentary snorkeling gear & floats for lounging in the ocean. We saw these floats the first day we arrived then they disappeared. I was told they were not in good shape and were awaiting new ones. I was so disappointed (I love floating around in the ocean) that they salvaged a couple of the best ones. I think the other guests were happy to have them as well even if they were a little worn.
Half price Happy Hour at the bar each evening (great bar with views of the beach and sea). Met lots of fellow guests at HH and got good advice from the bartender, Nigel.
Complimentary continental breakfast was offered each morning. This was great. Fresh squeezed OJ, fresh fruit including pineapple, papaya and melon, pastries, cereal & toast that we enjoyed every morning outside on the terrace overlooking the ocean. My favorite part of the day!
May 31 ~ Arrived at SXM airport. Easiest and fastest customs experience we have ever had. Took a cab to the ferry port. Luckily we got on one of the large open-air boats. Ride was extremely smooth and took only 20 minutes. Once at Blowing Point, I went to find Andy from Andy’s (Connor’s) car rental. I know there has been some debate as to whether you can rent a car at the port or not. You definitely can. I just went to Pear’s restaurant (Andy’s mom owns it) which is 15 steps from the port and asked for him. Unfortunately his computer had crashed the day before so he lost the details of our arrival. But no worries. He drove us to our hotel (giving us a lot of good info along the way) and then dropped our car off an hour later. It’s a different world there because when he found us on the beach (where we signed our paperwork), he told us the keys were in the car and when we dropped it off just to do the same at the ferry. Super nice guy!! Almost every rental car on the island is a white Corolla! And if we hadn’t already made arrangements with Andy there were plenty other people who had rental cars for us right at the ferry. Andy’s rates were very reasonable ($25/day or $175/week). At Frangipani, it would have cost us $40 for the day or $250 for the week for the same car. I’d much rather use that $75 toward a nice meal! I highly recommend Andy’s car rental.
Once we checked in at Frangipani. We hit the beach. The water was very calm. We took a walk toward Mali (locals festival was going on), did some swimming and then relaxed on the lounge chairs. We decided to try Picante that night for a casual dinner. We loved this place. Very cute, open yet cozy setting. The atmosphere was great as was the food. We had the spinach and artichoke dip (a special and not like any that I have ever had..it was delicious), fish tacos, steak chimichanga, 2 top shelf margaritas, 2 passionfruit margaritas and bottle of water ($77 inc. tip).
June 1
Enjoyed our first breakfast on the Terrace overlooking Meads Bay…what a great way to start the day! We stayed at Frangi’s beach until lunchtime then drove to Smitty’s for lunch. The place looked deserted (it was Anguilla Day so everyone was at Sandy Ground). But I found Smitty working at the gas station next door and he came back and made us lunch. What a character he is! And he makes the BEST crayfish. His cole slaw was really good too, with chunks of pineapple in it. 2 crayfish lunches, 2 beers and a coke was $55. After lunch we drove to Sandy Ground to see if we could catch any of the boat races. We missed them but Sandy ground was hopping. We got a drink at Johnnos and listened to the music for a while. Checked out Rendezvous Bay on our way back…. Rendezvous Bay Beach Hotel was a quaint, quiet place on very calm section of Rendezvous. Great view of St. Martin. Spoke with a woman on the beach who said her room was spacious though a little dated. Cedar Grove Restaurant looked nice and had a great location close to the beach. We also checked out CuisinArt. Very nice property but water was a lot rougher at this end of Rendezvous Bay. If I was going to splurge, I’d stay at CuisinArt. We hit the Frangi happy hour that night and met some of the other guests. Dinner was at Tasty’s. Very cute place decorated like a beach cottage. Dinner was $66 including tip… warm seafood salad, Rack of Lamb, 2 gin and tonics, a sprite and bottled water. Food was excellent.
June 2
Headed to Shoal Bay for the day. Rented chairs and an umbrella from Uncle Ernie ($10). I was told that no one on the beach offers complimentary chairs anymore if you eat lunch at their establishment (but I will find out later that this was not the case). Did some snorkeling…it was okay but can’t compare to Grand Cayman and some other islands (but we knew that J). We had lunch at Uncle Ernies. I had the BBQ chicken and Mark had the chicken and ribs. It was okay but nothing to write home about. Our 2 lunches plus a sprite and 2 pina coladas was $21. I checked out Shoal Bay Beach Hotel and Shoal Bay Villas since I almost stayed at one of these 2 places. I had read several negative comments about SBBH, but it looked fine to me. Sits on a great section of Shoal Bay, nice pool area. Most rooms appeared to have great views. Shoal Bay Villas was the only place where I actually saw a room. This is where we will stay if we decide to stay on Shoal Bay next time. Lots of tropical vegetation and palm trees on the property. Great view especially from 2nd floor units. The units were open, airy, nicely decorated in a subtle tropical theme. Great balcony, sitting area and kitchen/breakfast bar. These villas sit on the best section of Shoal Bay Beach in my opinion. They had the nicest chairs and umbrellas I saw. We liked Shoal Bay because of its proximity to beach bars and snorkeling. But at the end of the day it was nice to get back to Frangipani. On our way back, we saw all the school children in the bubble gum pink & maroon and Khaki uniforms walking home from school. And we hit Foods 95 for some snack and drinks to keep in the room. After happy hour, we went to The Pumphouse for a casual dinner and to see The Happy Hits. We had wings to start off with, awesome hamburger, tuna steak sandwich, ting and some drinks. Happy Hits were great! We really enjoyed their music and I especially loved the little guy with the maracas! The place got really hopping later in the evening.
June 3
Drove to Little Bay for snorkeling. We opted to climb down the cliff as opposed to taking a boat over. My husband hikes and climbs mountains so it was a breeze for him. He carried all our stuff down in a backpack and mesh bag. It was a little scarier for me though but I did it! It was beautiful and peaceful and calm there. We found the best snorkeling to be at Little Bay. Also found a bunch of cool shells. The climb back up the rope was much easier! After Little Bay we stopped at Corner Bar Pizza. We got a Caribbean pizza to take back to the hotel and eat on our balcony. It was really yummy…crab, other seafood (not quite sure what), onions, peppers and basil. $14 for a medium pan. After lunch we walked up to Mallihouna. Views must be incredible from the rooms. We didn’t see much of the hotel..just walked up the beach staircase to the overlook area. Dinner that night was at Mango’s. Great setting right on the beach. There was band playing. For dinner we shared the warm seafood salad appetizer, then we had Soy-glazed snapper, Seafood pasta (with lobster, snapper, scallops etc), glass of wine, bottle of water and for dessert we had the sorbet with Grand Marnier. Excellent meal. Total $109 including tip.
June 4
This was our only cloudy day of the week. But Mark got a bit of a burn! We read and hung out on our beach. Had leftover pizza for lunch. That afternoon we saw a big stingray right off Frangi’s beach. He was just floating/swimming around about 5 feet from the beach. We grabbed our snorkels and masks and watched him for a while. That was very cool. Dinner that night was at Straw Hat. We got large conch shells from the fisherman who had just come in. Those were fun to lug home! Great setting at Straw Hat over the water with views of St. Martin. We had the Lobster and Crayfish Spring Rolls for an appetizer, Caribbean cashew chicken, Seafood sampler (Triggerfish, Grouper and Crayfish) and for dessert we shared the caramelized bananas over ice cream (to die for). We also had 3 drinks between us. $128 including tip. Wonderful meal.
June 5
Beautiful day. Took the Johnno’s boat to Prickly Pear ($20 per person). Did some snorkeling (though the water was quite rough because of the wind) and had lunch at Johnnos. BBQ chicken, ribs, pasta salad, cole slaw and rice & peas. Along with a coke and beer, the total was $46 inc. tip. We felt somewhat like outcasts though because there 2 boats full of Cap Juluca guests there. We were the only ones who came over on the Johnno’s boat and were told that we would have to wait to eat until the Cap Juluca guests had been served. They even had a separate table for us off to the side. But after talking to a nice couple from Cap, who told us how much they spent for their trip and we felt better about the deal we got! I just didn’t appreciate not being treated the same because we weren’t staying at Cap Juluca. On our way back to the hotel, we checked out CAP JULUCA. Didn't see much of it but it looked very nice...Maunday's Bay was a nice calm cove and the villas looked to be right on the beach.
After we got back, we did some reading on our balcony then headed to Blanchard’s for dinner. This was the best meal we had during our stay. We had read their book “A Trip to the Beach” about how the Blanchard’s had moved to Anguilla from Vermont to start the restaurant. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it. Both my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed it. After reading it, of course we had to eat there. For those of you who are familiar with the story, we met Lowell, Garrilin and Miguel. And Bug still washes dishes! I cannot say enough about the restaurant or the food. The dining room is beautiful…nested in the gardens and every table with a view of the fountain. And even though you couldn’t see Meads bay, you could still hear it. It was elegant yet airy and just had a great atmosphere. My husband had the seared filet mignon of tuna with couscous, I had the Jerk Shrimp with grilled cinnamon-rum bananas and cranberry chutney & served with sweet potato puree. Amazing. The sweet potatoes were one of the most wonderful things that have ever passed through my lips. I plan to buy their cook book just so I can make them! We also had a half bottle of a wonderful wine that I cannot remember the name of. For dessert we shared the “Cracked Coconut” (another delicious creation). Total for $154 including tip. This was or most expensive meal but worth every penny. Definitely try this restaurant!
June 6
We decided to spend the day at Gwen’s because they were having a live band all day. We got there around 11:30 and spent about a half hour in the hammocks but the wind was so relentless on that side of Shoal Bay that we decided not to stay. We took a ride to Junk’s Hole but there was no shade there at all and neither of us needed much more sun after our day at Prickly Pear. So we went back to Shoal Bay and were going to rent chairs again from Uncle Ernie’s but we saw a sign at Madeariman saying that their chairs and umbrellas are complimentary for lunch guests. The other day we were there, the people at Ernie’s and Elodia’s told me no one on Shoal Bay did that. Anyway, we decided to eat there since I had read good things about their food. I had a chicken sandwich with red pepper sauce, hubby had the Madeariman burger and we also had 2 pina coladas and a Ting. $38. The “french fries” (more like huge potato wedges) were really good. Then we did some swimming, snorkeling (saw a spotted eagle ray this time and a huge school of Blue Tang), and relaxing. That evening we went to happy hour at Frangi where we met a couple who had just arrived so we filled them in on where to go and what to do etc.. We decided to go back to Picantefor our last meal since we enjoyed it so much the first time. 2 margaritas, bottle of water, chicken quesadillas and Mahi Mahi burrito was $46 including tip. Once you get used to it, it is nice that everyone adds in the tip automatically that way there is no figuring to do. We were going to go see Bankie Banks at the Dune Preserve after dinenr but we were too tired so we just went back to the hotel. Next time though… Also next time I definitely want to eat at Oliver’s and try the Frangipani restaurant.
June 7
Had to go home today L After our last wonderful breakfast on the Terrace, we relaxed on the beach and floated in the ocean. Never once set foot in the pool though it was nice. I don’t think I have ever used a hotel pool while on vacation in the Caribbean. The ocean/sea is so much nicer in my opinion. Around 11:00 we went back to the room to take a shower, finish packing and check out. Since our flight didn’t leave until 4:30 we decided to hit E’s oven for lunch before catching the ferry. This was a very cute place. We had the Tomato tart, lobster salad and 2 Tings ($32 inc. tip) After dropping the car off we caught the 1:30 ferry. This time we got one of the closed in boats which wasn’t nearly as nice as the one we took over where you could sit up top. At the airport we found that our flight was delayed and we may not make our connection in Philly. Ended up that we just made it after a mad dash though Philly’s airport. Got home around 1 AM and off to work the next day L
Can’t wait to go back!!!
Here is the link to my photo album ~
http://share.shutterfly.com/osi.jsp?i=EeEOGLZo3ctGEK
My “Best” list…
Best Beach: Meads
Best snorkeling: Little Bay
Best upscale restaurant: Blanchards
Best casual restaurant: Picante & Tastys
Best crayfish: Smitty’s
Best dessert: Caramelized bananas at Straw Hat & Cracked Coconut at Blanchards
Best appetizer: Lobster & Crayfish Spring Rolls at Straw Hat
Best Rum Punch: Frangipani
Best Pina Colada: Uncle Ernie’s
Best Margarita: Picante
GENERAL COMMENTS:
Beautiful beaches…softest sand I have ever set foot on. Feels like you are walking through powdered sugar.
Nicest, friendliest people I have ever met!
Weather was gorgeous. Scattered clouds and breezy almost everyday. Only was mostly cloudy day during our week stay. There were overnight showers most evenings but it never rained while we were awake.. For most of our stay though the winds really picked up and it felt like we were in Aruba! The temperature reading at the bank always showed 82 or 83 degrees. It felt warmer though (maybe 85) due to the humidity (which wasn’t bad at all).
Goats are everywhere!! I wanted to take a cute little baby home with me.
Amazing restaurants…didn’t have one bad meal.
The island itself on the interior is scrubby with lots of half finished houses. But that only added to its charm.
FRANGIPANI COMMENTS:
Very nice property. Unique, charming architecture. Lots of tropical plants and flowers. Very quiet hotel…often times we had the beach to ourselves. Beach in front of the hotel was wonderful and wide.
Our room (5C) was a little tired and according to the manager, that room along with 5 others will be updated while they are closed this Fall. But overall we liked the room. Had a great view of the beach and water from our balcony.
Staff was very helpful and accommodating. Kareen at the front desk was great!
Hotel provides bathrobes, a fax of the NY Times each morning, a complimentary bottle of rum, and complimentary snorkeling gear & floats for lounging in the ocean. We saw these floats the first day we arrived then they disappeared. I was told they were not in good shape and were awaiting new ones. I was so disappointed (I love floating around in the ocean) that they salvaged a couple of the best ones. I think the other guests were happy to have them as well even if they were a little worn.
Half price Happy Hour at the bar each evening (great bar with views of the beach and sea). Met lots of fellow guests at HH and got good advice from the bartender, Nigel.
Complimentary continental breakfast was offered each morning. This was great. Fresh squeezed OJ, fresh fruit including pineapple, papaya and melon, pastries, cereal & toast that we enjoyed every morning outside on the terrace overlooking the ocean. My favorite part of the day!
May 31 ~ Arrived at SXM airport. Easiest and fastest customs experience we have ever had. Took a cab to the ferry port. Luckily we got on one of the large open-air boats. Ride was extremely smooth and took only 20 minutes. Once at Blowing Point, I went to find Andy from Andy’s (Connor’s) car rental. I know there has been some debate as to whether you can rent a car at the port or not. You definitely can. I just went to Pear’s restaurant (Andy’s mom owns it) which is 15 steps from the port and asked for him. Unfortunately his computer had crashed the day before so he lost the details of our arrival. But no worries. He drove us to our hotel (giving us a lot of good info along the way) and then dropped our car off an hour later. It’s a different world there because when he found us on the beach (where we signed our paperwork), he told us the keys were in the car and when we dropped it off just to do the same at the ferry. Super nice guy!! Almost every rental car on the island is a white Corolla! And if we hadn’t already made arrangements with Andy there were plenty other people who had rental cars for us right at the ferry. Andy’s rates were very reasonable ($25/day or $175/week). At Frangipani, it would have cost us $40 for the day or $250 for the week for the same car. I’d much rather use that $75 toward a nice meal! I highly recommend Andy’s car rental.
Once we checked in at Frangipani. We hit the beach. The water was very calm. We took a walk toward Mali (locals festival was going on), did some swimming and then relaxed on the lounge chairs. We decided to try Picante that night for a casual dinner. We loved this place. Very cute, open yet cozy setting. The atmosphere was great as was the food. We had the spinach and artichoke dip (a special and not like any that I have ever had..it was delicious), fish tacos, steak chimichanga, 2 top shelf margaritas, 2 passionfruit margaritas and bottle of water ($77 inc. tip).
June 1
Enjoyed our first breakfast on the Terrace overlooking Meads Bay…what a great way to start the day! We stayed at Frangi’s beach until lunchtime then drove to Smitty’s for lunch. The place looked deserted (it was Anguilla Day so everyone was at Sandy Ground). But I found Smitty working at the gas station next door and he came back and made us lunch. What a character he is! And he makes the BEST crayfish. His cole slaw was really good too, with chunks of pineapple in it. 2 crayfish lunches, 2 beers and a coke was $55. After lunch we drove to Sandy Ground to see if we could catch any of the boat races. We missed them but Sandy ground was hopping. We got a drink at Johnnos and listened to the music for a while. Checked out Rendezvous Bay on our way back…. Rendezvous Bay Beach Hotel was a quaint, quiet place on very calm section of Rendezvous. Great view of St. Martin. Spoke with a woman on the beach who said her room was spacious though a little dated. Cedar Grove Restaurant looked nice and had a great location close to the beach. We also checked out CuisinArt. Very nice property but water was a lot rougher at this end of Rendezvous Bay. If I was going to splurge, I’d stay at CuisinArt. We hit the Frangi happy hour that night and met some of the other guests. Dinner was at Tasty’s. Very cute place decorated like a beach cottage. Dinner was $66 including tip… warm seafood salad, Rack of Lamb, 2 gin and tonics, a sprite and bottled water. Food was excellent.
June 2
Headed to Shoal Bay for the day. Rented chairs and an umbrella from Uncle Ernie ($10). I was told that no one on the beach offers complimentary chairs anymore if you eat lunch at their establishment (but I will find out later that this was not the case). Did some snorkeling…it was okay but can’t compare to Grand Cayman and some other islands (but we knew that J). We had lunch at Uncle Ernies. I had the BBQ chicken and Mark had the chicken and ribs. It was okay but nothing to write home about. Our 2 lunches plus a sprite and 2 pina coladas was $21. I checked out Shoal Bay Beach Hotel and Shoal Bay Villas since I almost stayed at one of these 2 places. I had read several negative comments about SBBH, but it looked fine to me. Sits on a great section of Shoal Bay, nice pool area. Most rooms appeared to have great views. Shoal Bay Villas was the only place where I actually saw a room. This is where we will stay if we decide to stay on Shoal Bay next time. Lots of tropical vegetation and palm trees on the property. Great view especially from 2nd floor units. The units were open, airy, nicely decorated in a subtle tropical theme. Great balcony, sitting area and kitchen/breakfast bar. These villas sit on the best section of Shoal Bay Beach in my opinion. They had the nicest chairs and umbrellas I saw. We liked Shoal Bay because of its proximity to beach bars and snorkeling. But at the end of the day it was nice to get back to Frangipani. On our way back, we saw all the school children in the bubble gum pink & maroon and Khaki uniforms walking home from school. And we hit Foods 95 for some snack and drinks to keep in the room. After happy hour, we went to The Pumphouse for a casual dinner and to see The Happy Hits. We had wings to start off with, awesome hamburger, tuna steak sandwich, ting and some drinks. Happy Hits were great! We really enjoyed their music and I especially loved the little guy with the maracas! The place got really hopping later in the evening.
June 3
Drove to Little Bay for snorkeling. We opted to climb down the cliff as opposed to taking a boat over. My husband hikes and climbs mountains so it was a breeze for him. He carried all our stuff down in a backpack and mesh bag. It was a little scarier for me though but I did it! It was beautiful and peaceful and calm there. We found the best snorkeling to be at Little Bay. Also found a bunch of cool shells. The climb back up the rope was much easier! After Little Bay we stopped at Corner Bar Pizza. We got a Caribbean pizza to take back to the hotel and eat on our balcony. It was really yummy…crab, other seafood (not quite sure what), onions, peppers and basil. $14 for a medium pan. After lunch we walked up to Mallihouna. Views must be incredible from the rooms. We didn’t see much of the hotel..just walked up the beach staircase to the overlook area. Dinner that night was at Mango’s. Great setting right on the beach. There was band playing. For dinner we shared the warm seafood salad appetizer, then we had Soy-glazed snapper, Seafood pasta (with lobster, snapper, scallops etc), glass of wine, bottle of water and for dessert we had the sorbet with Grand Marnier. Excellent meal. Total $109 including tip.
June 4
This was our only cloudy day of the week. But Mark got a bit of a burn! We read and hung out on our beach. Had leftover pizza for lunch. That afternoon we saw a big stingray right off Frangi’s beach. He was just floating/swimming around about 5 feet from the beach. We grabbed our snorkels and masks and watched him for a while. That was very cool. Dinner that night was at Straw Hat. We got large conch shells from the fisherman who had just come in. Those were fun to lug home! Great setting at Straw Hat over the water with views of St. Martin. We had the Lobster and Crayfish Spring Rolls for an appetizer, Caribbean cashew chicken, Seafood sampler (Triggerfish, Grouper and Crayfish) and for dessert we shared the caramelized bananas over ice cream (to die for). We also had 3 drinks between us. $128 including tip. Wonderful meal.
June 5
Beautiful day. Took the Johnno’s boat to Prickly Pear ($20 per person). Did some snorkeling (though the water was quite rough because of the wind) and had lunch at Johnnos. BBQ chicken, ribs, pasta salad, cole slaw and rice & peas. Along with a coke and beer, the total was $46 inc. tip. We felt somewhat like outcasts though because there 2 boats full of Cap Juluca guests there. We were the only ones who came over on the Johnno’s boat and were told that we would have to wait to eat until the Cap Juluca guests had been served. They even had a separate table for us off to the side. But after talking to a nice couple from Cap, who told us how much they spent for their trip and we felt better about the deal we got! I just didn’t appreciate not being treated the same because we weren’t staying at Cap Juluca. On our way back to the hotel, we checked out CAP JULUCA. Didn't see much of it but it looked very nice...Maunday's Bay was a nice calm cove and the villas looked to be right on the beach.
After we got back, we did some reading on our balcony then headed to Blanchard’s for dinner. This was the best meal we had during our stay. We had read their book “A Trip to the Beach” about how the Blanchard’s had moved to Anguilla from Vermont to start the restaurant. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it. Both my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed it. After reading it, of course we had to eat there. For those of you who are familiar with the story, we met Lowell, Garrilin and Miguel. And Bug still washes dishes! I cannot say enough about the restaurant or the food. The dining room is beautiful…nested in the gardens and every table with a view of the fountain. And even though you couldn’t see Meads bay, you could still hear it. It was elegant yet airy and just had a great atmosphere. My husband had the seared filet mignon of tuna with couscous, I had the Jerk Shrimp with grilled cinnamon-rum bananas and cranberry chutney & served with sweet potato puree. Amazing. The sweet potatoes were one of the most wonderful things that have ever passed through my lips. I plan to buy their cook book just so I can make them! We also had a half bottle of a wonderful wine that I cannot remember the name of. For dessert we shared the “Cracked Coconut” (another delicious creation). Total for $154 including tip. This was or most expensive meal but worth every penny. Definitely try this restaurant!
June 6
We decided to spend the day at Gwen’s because they were having a live band all day. We got there around 11:30 and spent about a half hour in the hammocks but the wind was so relentless on that side of Shoal Bay that we decided not to stay. We took a ride to Junk’s Hole but there was no shade there at all and neither of us needed much more sun after our day at Prickly Pear. So we went back to Shoal Bay and were going to rent chairs again from Uncle Ernie’s but we saw a sign at Madeariman saying that their chairs and umbrellas are complimentary for lunch guests. The other day we were there, the people at Ernie’s and Elodia’s told me no one on Shoal Bay did that. Anyway, we decided to eat there since I had read good things about their food. I had a chicken sandwich with red pepper sauce, hubby had the Madeariman burger and we also had 2 pina coladas and a Ting. $38. The “french fries” (more like huge potato wedges) were really good. Then we did some swimming, snorkeling (saw a spotted eagle ray this time and a huge school of Blue Tang), and relaxing. That evening we went to happy hour at Frangi where we met a couple who had just arrived so we filled them in on where to go and what to do etc.. We decided to go back to Picantefor our last meal since we enjoyed it so much the first time. 2 margaritas, bottle of water, chicken quesadillas and Mahi Mahi burrito was $46 including tip. Once you get used to it, it is nice that everyone adds in the tip automatically that way there is no figuring to do. We were going to go see Bankie Banks at the Dune Preserve after dinenr but we were too tired so we just went back to the hotel. Next time though… Also next time I definitely want to eat at Oliver’s and try the Frangipani restaurant.
June 7
Had to go home today L After our last wonderful breakfast on the Terrace, we relaxed on the beach and floated in the ocean. Never once set foot in the pool though it was nice. I don’t think I have ever used a hotel pool while on vacation in the Caribbean. The ocean/sea is so much nicer in my opinion. Around 11:00 we went back to the room to take a shower, finish packing and check out. Since our flight didn’t leave until 4:30 we decided to hit E’s oven for lunch before catching the ferry. This was a very cute place. We had the Tomato tart, lobster salad and 2 Tings ($32 inc. tip) After dropping the car off we caught the 1:30 ferry. This time we got one of the closed in boats which wasn’t nearly as nice as the one we took over where you could sit up top. At the airport we found that our flight was delayed and we may not make our connection in Philly. Ended up that we just made it after a mad dash though Philly’s airport. Got home around 1 AM and off to work the next day L
Can’t wait to go back!!!
Here is the link to my photo album ~
http://share.shutterfly.com/osi.jsp?i=EeEOGLZo3ctGEK
My “Best” list…
Best Beach: Meads
Best snorkeling: Little Bay
Best upscale restaurant: Blanchards
Best casual restaurant: Picante & Tastys
Best crayfish: Smitty’s
Best dessert: Caramelized bananas at Straw Hat & Cracked Coconut at Blanchards
Best appetizer: Lobster & Crayfish Spring Rolls at Straw Hat
Best Rum Punch: Frangipani
Best Pina Colada: Uncle Ernie’s
Best Margarita: Picante
Mar 30th, 2009, 11:01 AM
#27
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My St. John TR has turned ito an Anguilla post 
All of my anguilla info is coming back to me know. I just remembered a villa that would be perfect for you guys. A friend of a friend own it. I emailed and got the web site for you as I couldn't recall the name...
www.18degreesnorth.com
All of my anguilla info is coming back to me know. I just remembered a villa that would be perfect for you guys. A friend of a friend own it. I emailed and got the web site for you as I couldn't recall the name...www.18degreesnorth.com
Mar 31st, 2009, 04:33 PM
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Hi Kristen, Thank you sooo much for digging all the info on Anguilla up for me! My hubby and I sat down and looked through your pics last night. Although he said it looks nice, he still wants to do St. Maarten for the direct flight (or possibly St. John) but at least now I can get a day trip over there! I think I’ve worn him out with wanting to see everything I possibly can squeeze into a week with our trips! I think that’s why he wants to go back to an island we’ve already been to, particularly St. Maarten, b/c he wants to hang out at the villa for most of the time. I feel like I’ve seen a lot of St. Maarten/Martin so I’d be okay w/hanging at the villa for the week (with the Anguilla day trip exception).
I really appreciate you sending me your report and pictures-it’s very helpful! It’s funny, but I always seem to find villas that I love and then keep them in the back of my mind for years, hoping to get there someday! Here are the ones on my list (in case you’re bored and want to have a look).
Which ones would you do?
Anguilla (www.bliss-villa.com) -found this one about 5 years ago and it’s still on my mind!
St.Maarten
http://www.unusualvillarentals.com/c...eumarine.shtml
(this is currently the top pick for next vaca, according to hubby and our friends who would go w/us)
Www.peterbayestate.com (if we go back to St. John-this is the second pick among our travel group)
Dominican republic: www.villa-castellamonte.com
Jamaica: www.jamaicavillas.com/sugarbaymore.html
Virgin Gorda (if we go back): http://www.caribbeanway.com/villa-page/ind/105205.asp
-although if you’re going for your first time, I highly recommend any Mahoe Bay villa-they’re spectacular! We chose Carribean Wind b/c it was directly on the beach and had a 3’ wall all the way around the pool so Brooke wouldn’t “fall” in.
I really appreciate you sending me your report and pictures-it’s very helpful! It’s funny, but I always seem to find villas that I love and then keep them in the back of my mind for years, hoping to get there someday! Here are the ones on my list (in case you’re bored and want to have a look).
Which ones would you do?
Anguilla (www.bliss-villa.com) -found this one about 5 years ago and it’s still on my mind!
St.Maarten
http://www.unusualvillarentals.com/c...eumarine.shtml
(this is currently the top pick for next vaca, according to hubby and our friends who would go w/us)
Www.peterbayestate.com (if we go back to St. John-this is the second pick among our travel group)
Dominican republic: www.villa-castellamonte.com
Jamaica: www.jamaicavillas.com/sugarbaymore.html
Virgin Gorda (if we go back): http://www.caribbeanway.com/villa-page/ind/105205.asp
-although if you’re going for your first time, I highly recommend any Mahoe Bay villa-they’re spectacular! We chose Carribean Wind b/c it was directly on the beach and had a 3’ wall all the way around the pool so Brooke wouldn’t “fall” in.
Mar 31st, 2009, 06:26 PM
#29
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Wow..all of the villas look spectacular. The one in St. Maarten looks like a resort! You own heli pad. How cool I amdrawn to the Peter Bay Estates one though. Maybe it's how they photographed it but it looks perfect.
I think friends of ours will be going with us next year so if we do St. John, let me know if you have any 4 BR villa suggestions. So far I have found a couple I like..one in Coral Bay and one overlooking Cinnamon.
Do you have a photo link from your last St. Maarten trip? All I saw of it was on the cab ride from the airport to ferry and that didn't thrill me though obviously there was a lot I didn't see!
I bet if you do a day trip to Anguilla that you will want to go back again! I didn't even realize until after I posted that the 18 Dregrees North was only a 1 BR! Bliss Villa looks gorgeous.
FYI... I just bought Jimmy Buffett tix today! I am very excited. It will be a trek because since he stopped playing in MD, our choices were VA or NJ. If you haven't seen/heard it, check oyr the CD/DVD from his concert in Anguilla a year or two ago.
I amdrawn to the Peter Bay Estates one though. Maybe it's how they photographed it but it looks perfect.I think friends of ours will be going with us next year so if we do St. John, let me know if you have any 4 BR villa suggestions. So far I have found a couple I like..one in Coral Bay and one overlooking Cinnamon.
Do you have a photo link from your last St. Maarten trip? All I saw of it was on the cab ride from the airport to ferry and that didn't thrill me though obviously there was a lot I didn't see!
I bet if you do a day trip to Anguilla that you will want to go back again! I didn't even realize until after I posted that the 18 Dregrees North was only a 1 BR! Bliss Villa looks gorgeous.
FYI... I just bought Jimmy Buffett tix today! I am very excited. It will be a trek because since he stopped playing in MD, our choices were VA or NJ. If you haven't seen/heard it, check oyr the CD/DVD from his concert in Anguilla a year or two ago.
Apr 1st, 2009, 02:26 AM
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Kristen we've rented LaPapaya through Destination St. John and are very pleased with the villa. It has 5 bderooms and everyone has A/C. It has amazing views, to left is Great Cruz Bay and to the right is Chocolate Hole. On clear days we've seen St. Croix and over to PR.
Apr 2nd, 2009, 05:53 PM
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Hi Kristen,
The villa we stayed in in St. John was nice but was only 3 bedrooms. Www.andantebythesea.com. If you click on my name it should come up under my trip reports. I’m not sure of others, but La Papaya’s pictures look really nice, per Pulley. I guess it depends on your budget too.
We really enjoyed St. Maarten, although it seems to have a bad rap on this board. We probably liked it so much because the cruise ships weren’t allowed in that week and it was off season, so it was pretty quiet. I don’t think I’d like it in high season-I could see how the traffic could build up. Here’s a link to our pics-our villa was spectacular. It’s name is La Mission on Baie Rouge beach, on the north shore looking towards Anguilla. It has 4 rooms/5 baths too (in case you’re interested in St. Maarten as an option).
http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLan..._photos_button
Nice with the Buffett tix! That stinks he doesn’t play in MD anymore. My favorite venue I’ve seen him in is the Tweeter Center (now the Susquehanna center) in Camden, NJ. We’ve seen him there the most. Lincoln Financial Park in Phila isn’t a great venue at all in our opinion to see him in concert. And Atlantic City, NJ isn’t all that great either. You can party before hand on the beach for $12 drinks, but the hall that he plays in isn’t great. The Tweeter center has great tailgating in the lots, and the venue is wonderful with the bridge/river/boats nearby. Oh, and the Anguilla cd/dvd-it’s great! I’ve had it since it released (along with most of his other cds Do you like Kenny Chesney too? If you get into liking St. John, his songs will relate more and more... 
The villa we stayed in in St. John was nice but was only 3 bedrooms. Www.andantebythesea.com. If you click on my name it should come up under my trip reports. I’m not sure of others, but La Papaya’s pictures look really nice, per Pulley. I guess it depends on your budget too.
We really enjoyed St. Maarten, although it seems to have a bad rap on this board. We probably liked it so much because the cruise ships weren’t allowed in that week and it was off season, so it was pretty quiet. I don’t think I’d like it in high season-I could see how the traffic could build up. Here’s a link to our pics-our villa was spectacular. It’s name is La Mission on Baie Rouge beach, on the north shore looking towards Anguilla. It has 4 rooms/5 baths too (in case you’re interested in St. Maarten as an option).
http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLan..._photos_button
Nice with the Buffett tix! That stinks he doesn’t play in MD anymore. My favorite venue I’ve seen him in is the Tweeter Center (now the Susquehanna center) in Camden, NJ. We’ve seen him there the most. Lincoln Financial Park in Phila isn’t a great venue at all in our opinion to see him in concert. And Atlantic City, NJ isn’t all that great either. You can party before hand on the beach for $12 drinks, but the hall that he plays in isn’t great. The Tweeter center has great tailgating in the lots, and the venue is wonderful with the bridge/river/boats nearby. Oh, and the Anguilla cd/dvd-it’s great! I’ve had it since it released (along with most of his other cds
Do you like Kenny Chesney too? If you get into liking St. John, his songs will relate more and more...
Apr 3rd, 2009, 05:51 AM
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Great..that is where we are seeing him..Susquenhanna Center. I liked the fact that it was on the waterfront too. I got the Anguilla set for Mark as soon as it was released too I actually had a brief moment where I thought about booking a trip to Anguilla to see him! I do like Kenny Chesney, but am only familiar with his more popular songs so I'll have to check out more by him. I am swware that he had/has a house on Cinnamon though.
I will check out the St. Marteen pics and possibly put it on the list! I think we are sticking to low season from now on!
I actually had a brief moment where I thought about booking a trip to Anguilla to see him! I do like Kenny Chesney, but am only familiar with his more popular songs so I'll have to check out more by him. I am swware that he had/has a house on Cinnamon though.I will check out the St. Marteen pics and possibly put it on the list! I think we are sticking to low season from now on!
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