Hi,
We're planning a trip, probably to SXM, with 4-6 ppl for a week, in April. And most of the ppl in my group are interested in the large resort, pampering, 'swim up bar' sort of experience. Myself, i am more interested in the cuisine and diving in clear blue reef waters, but i will have to please my companions or I'll end up flipping the whole bill(not happening). So, can anyone suggest some places to stay. No children in our group. I'd prefer and area where the beach is white and the water is lite blue(wouldnt we all), somewhere near some activity.

thanx in adv,
jimbo

Jimbo,

About the only place that really comes to mind that would meet most of your needs would be the Maho Sonesta Beach Resort or its' sister timeshare property, Royal Islander LePlage - but I'm not sure how much pampering you'll get at either location. Truthfully, if my interpretation of 'pampering' comes close to yours you have to know there are no Four Seasons or resorts of that nature on the island that also offer the other features you've implied you're looking for.

You might look into the new Westin Dawn Beach Resort but once off the Westin property itself there's not that much more going on right there. Once again, that's why I'd recommend Maho Sonesta Beach which does have a nice pool, and other amenities on site and then a short walking distance to one of the island's larger casinos and lots of shops and restaurants, as well. The only potential drawback to this property, IMHO, is the beach which is better than just okay but certainly not the best on the island. But the good news is most visitors drive the island to experience all the different beaches of both sides of the island and you would also be a very short walk to Mullet Bay Beach, around the corner from Maho, if this would interest you.

And, of course, the other option would be to rent a private villa which might be just the thing but only you would know which direction your taste might lie.

The St. Maarten/St. Martin beaches are all powdery white sand and brilliant turquoise water beaches so in that, at least, you won't be disappointed. The island dining far surpasses all the other islands we've visited and there are lots of different varieties of local watering holes, depending on what might suit your tastes. There is a lot of good shopping on both sides of the island and then there's always the clothing optional beaches on the French side that draw so many to this island. After you're done with all this if you have the inclination, you would also have a choice of three readily accessible near islands to visit where you could experience a traditionally Dutch culture, an up-scale French culture or a typically laid back and proper British heritage, so there really is something for everyone if more travel is something that interests you.

Good luck and I hope this info at least gives you somewhere to start your search.

Respectfully,

pat
:-) :-)