tjc73

We are staying in St. Martin for one night at the end of May and need help w/ a hotel.(We head to Anguilla the next day). We'd like to do some gambling and some night life since Anguilla seems pretty quiet.

1)If we stay on the French side are taxis expensive and rides long to casinos?

2)The Sonesta Maho (Dutch side) beach looks nice but I'm very concerned w/ the plane noise. And heard mixed reviews.

3)My sister has stayed at the Grand Case beach club and loved it. Too far from casinos/nightlife?

Any hotel and island suggestions would be very helpful. Thank you.

Statia

If you are looking for casinos and nightlife, I would suggest staying on the Dutch side. It would be much easier for you to get around. Yes, taxis could become expensive with going back and forth. If you really want to stay on the French side and do nightlife on the Dutch side, I would suggest renting a car. IMHO, however, staying on the Dutch side would be the best option.

I can't comment on the airport noise at Maho because I haven't stayed there in a number of years now. I always stay at Royal Palm in Simpson Bay and have enjoyed the peace of the resort, yet the easy access to restaurants and other nightlife. Some within walking distance. The Simpson Bay Area in general is very close to restaurants, casinos, night clubs, etc. The Maho area is even closer and you would have many options within walking distance and not have to bother with cabs at all.

I think you would be fine at Sonesta and there aren't typically any aircraft landing after 10 p.m., so I wouldn't think the noise would be an issue. As a matter of fact, seeing the planes come in during the day might be quite fun to watch.

AES

We did this (but for 2 nights before Anguilla) this time last year. We stayed in Grand Case, and given our experience and your time constraints, I would definitely stay on the Dutch side. We rented a car the 2nd day and the trip back to the closest casino was about 35 minutes each way and that one was pretty quiet, so we wound up at the area around the Sonesta for the most activity.

As the PP said, the planes were great entertainment during the day (we spent part of our day there) and end fairly early so it shouldn't be a sleep issue.

Barbara1

definitely stay on the Dutch side.
Grand Case Beach Club is great but it is a long and costly taxi ride to the casinos.
the Sonesta Maho is fine and would be the most convenient for you.
it is in the middle of shops, restaurants, clubs and casinos... all within walking distance.
It is the heart of the night life on SXM.
the noise from the airport will not bother you.
the airport closes around 11 PM anyway so there are not jets landing all night long.

tjc73

Thank you for all your help. From what you've said we are going for the Dutch side. Trying to decide between Sonesta Maho or Great Bay resort. Opinions? Thanks again.

Tim

Statia

My personal preference would definitely be Maho over staying in Great Bay. Both have a lot of options for entertainment, but I think Maho is probably more suited for what you are looking for.

Barbara or someone else might have further insight, too, as I'm not personally familiar with either hotel...only the areas.

bebe0711

We stayed at Maho 2 years ago and did not have a problem with noise at all. I like the location because even though we had a car, we could pretty much walk in the little village. A great piano bar we went to in walking distance as the "Soprano Piano Bar."

Also, great bands at Sunset beach bar.

Have a great time.

Anguilla is the complete opposite of the Dutch side in St. Maarten. It is a beautiful island, but more proper. (i.e. Bermuda)

Enjoy!

Barbara1

Maho definitely!

Stewbear

Don't worry about the costs of taxis as the Casinos will take all you got anyways. Some of the worst odds on gambling in the world. I learned years ago to save the gambling for Vegas/Reno enjoy the beachs, diving, food & grace of this most charming island!

ontariotraveller

The Maho would be great. Casino Royale is right across the street - no need for a taxi (but they are cheap and reliable anyway)

The plane noise is nothing to worry about - it is busiest in the afternoon.

Our room at the Maho was facing the airport and when you are in your room you really have to listen to even hear them from inside.

The Soprano's Bar was cool to visit 0 I have to agree.

tjc73

Thanks for all your help. We're booked at the Maho St. Marteen for the night we are there. Thank you all for your great insight and help.

Tim

Statia

Let us know how it turns out.