mary

Okay, we've finally made a decision on what island we want to visit. ST. MARTIN!!! So, what's up with this island. If you've been there and done that, please give us some input (i.e., what beaches are best; villas or resorts, some night life, but not too much, etc.). Going in April, 2000, so we've got some time to research and looking for whatever suggestions you might have for fun!!!

Cheri

Orient Beach area, French side. <BR> <BR>Phillipsburg area on Dutch side is not nearly as nice.

Anita

Hi, Mary <BR> <BR>Good choice of an island! I was there for the first time last April, and I'm returning to the same place in April of 2000. I stay at a villa that I rent with five other people. It's pretty cheap that way, you get an incredible place to stay, usually with a pool, a great view, and a cleaning lady. Matter of fact, I'm paying more for my airfare than I am for the villa. A beautiful beach to visit is on the French side, but right on the boarder of the Dutch side. It's called Baie Rouge. There's no sign for the place, but I'm sure if you ask, you'll be easily directed to it. There's a nice little restaurant and bar right as you enter the beach area, so bring money. Also, for $5 you can rent a beach chair (another $5 for an umbrella, if you're getting too much sun). The French side has great stores, bistroes (sp?), and a lot of fun push-cart-type of places. Good "fun" shopping. The Dutch side is a shopper's paradise, especially jewelry. Remember to barter! Also, go to Phillipsberg (the Dutch side) when there are no cruise ships in the area. That way, you'll get a better deal; easier bartering. Turtle Pier (I thought) was a great restaurant. Also, if you want a special, but expensive, dinner, La Vie En Rose (sp?) on the French side can't be beat. Absolutely an incredible dining experience! Well, bon voyage!

Dave

Best to do is rent a car and do the circle tour of the island, see all the beaches. Best from my point of view - Orient is very big, nice, crowded, nude section, some shade. Baie Rouge - our favorite - nice, secluded at far end, slight shade. Marcel cove (L'Habitation) beautiful, medium crowded, good shade. <BR> <BR>L'Habitation is a nice place to stay, but there are many others. Villa would be good with other couples to make it very inexpensive. <BR> <BR>If you like casinoes, it's at the Maho bay area. <BR> <BR>Many good restaurants. <BR> <BR>Good shopping in Phillipsburg and Marigot. <BR> <BR>It is a long drive from one end to the other.

Sue

If you really want to learn about St. Martin's vist http://traveltalk.com/cgi-bin/talkth...ib/sxm/travel/. The entire board is devoted to St. Martin and the people posting are super friendly. Enjoy the island.

sylvia

St. Martin is wonderful! My husband and I stayed at Le Meridien last spring, which I would highly recommend. <BR>The beach is great and the water is very clear and calm. The only problem is that you are isolated. We took a day tour and then went back to Orient Beach one day. The beach there is probably the best on the island because it is so wide, clean, and the water is clear and calm. We would probably stay in that vicinity next time, maybe at the Mont Vernon or the Esmerelda. Didn't like the Dutch side at all!