One of the reasons my friends like having me around is that I'm a mosquito magnet. As long as I'm there, no one else gets bitten.

So... what's the mozzie situation on SXM? Should I be showering in DEET?

As always, thanks in advance for any advice.

This I can't answer, because my skin is so sun-tanned that they don't bit me and I even don't know if they exist ... No kidding

Kind Regards,
Philippe



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yep, they are bad ... DEET is a must

I would recommend that you bring some spray and lather up. They do sell something called Mosquito Milk on the island so that's worth investing in as well. I have heard that works really well. They also sell repellant so if you forget, don't worry...you can buy it in any grocery store.

The early mornings and sunsets are the worst times for no-see-ums. I rarely get bit but when I do, it's at those times. Also, many of the restaurants on the island are open air so if you sit close to foliage, you are bound to be their main course during these times. When lying on a beach, try to keep your chair away from any foliage. You should then be fine. I'm only saying this because you state that you are a bug magnet. Before you leave to go out at night, give yourself a quick spray...especially on the legs. Also, keep a small spray bottle in your beach bag just in case you feel them starting.

Of course the rainier the day, the worse they may be afterwards but if you are getting a nice breeze during the day or evening, that will be a very positive thing for you. That's one of the reasons why we like going in December..this is when the breezes start to cross the island.

Best to spend your day at a windy beach so THEY can't land on you. At night I always wear pants to prevent THEM from landing on my legs.Last Feb I saw the on the French side trucks spraying chemicals to kill THEM.good luck

www.webmd.com/a-toz-guides/dengue-fever-shc

Hope the link about dengue fever works. The St. Martin "epidemic" may be over, according to the Daily Herald, but if there's even one of the little buggers out there left still carrying the virus, then you've GOT to protect yourself! The CDC has some good info on the repellent and DEET strength necessary. And worrying about the nights (as mentioned by the previous poster) isn't practical advice. The mosquitos carrying the disease bite during the DAY.