SXM Blog

#SXMISBACK

2/14/2018 - By Robbin

ST MARTIN / ST MAARTEN IS BACK!!

#SXMISBACK!  #SXMSTRONG!

The amazing resilience and tenacity of the people of St Martin/Maarten is remarkable!  Only 5 months after a devastating Cat 5 hurricane pummels this beautiful island, they are open for business and welcoming guests with open arms and the friendly nature the island is famous for!  Sure, you still see alarming evidence of the storm but it’s easily overlooked when you consider the progress made says Ted D., director of St Martin Reservation Center.  We currently have over 130 villas and condos ready to accept guests, and over 140 restaurants, many shops, grocery stores, casinos, and excursions are fully operational with more opening every week. In fact, restoration is going so well that the island is still hosting the annual Heineken Regatta in March 1-4, when thousands of guests are expected to participate!  

We are getting overwhelmingly positive feedback from returning guests.  They say it’s like getting a chance to go back in time when the island was more laid back and folks made new friends knowing they were sharing something special, says Ted.  Here are a few comments from guests returning from visits this January...

“I was there last week. Philipsburg was nearly normal. Beach was mostly full. Shopping was plentiful. Mullet and Karackter were great as was Kim Sha! Tell people come on down!” Suzanne H.

“Yesterday we arrived and I have to say, we had a great experience. The airport was super efficient. We were in and out of the airport within 15 minutes of landing. Immigration was quick, our luggage was waiting for us and all the staff was amazing! So glad to be back!”  Cherie M.

“We’ve been here a week, getting ready to start week two! Not a ghost-town, but definitely fewer people....absolutely made the best decision by still coming down!”  JS I.

“Come back to SXM! We are enjoying the beaches! Yesterday, Friar's Bay, and today at El Zafiro!” Jill S.

“People are happy to see visitors and are busy with the business of getting on with their lives. If you are someone who goes to SXM and wants to do the same things every trip, you’re gonna be disappointed. But if you’re willing to try some new places and look for old friends, please go... SXM is still wonderful. Different, but wonderful.”  Dina A.

“With Due Respect:  The island isn't what it was last year.... It's a mess in many areas. No getting around that. We've been driving around the island and horrified by what we're seeing. It's NOT pretty. Roofs off houses, houses in disrepair, cars with shattered windshields. Nope, not pretty at all. HOWEVER, there are many areas that aren't like that. There are many restaurants open and many opening in the not too distant future. Hotels are open...villas & condos are available for rent. Major supermarkets open as well as some smaller ones. The island is doing business as best as it can after the worst storm in history 5 months ago! They need our business!  Don't hesitate to return.....it will be worth your while!”  Contessa A.

So if you’re thinking about a trip to SXM, please give our friendly team a call at 800 480 8555 or 917 546-6948.  We’ll be happy to answer your questions and assist you in finding the best available options for your dates and needs.