Early Friday morning we left from Newark Airport on Continental for St. Martin on a direct flight filled to capacity. Flight down was uneventful and being hard to still believe the flight arrived almost a hour early! This was a welcomed surprise for
more +a change.
One of the biggest highlights of this island is the prompt movement through airport customs to the baggage claim all taking place before our scheduled landing. We went right out front and found the Avis both and was taken right to our car and again was pleasantly surprised we were upgraded to a larger vehicle. This was unexpected as we were pleased it still was not any bigger than american Suzuki AWD. We had luggage hanging out every window and one the roof as we drove ten minutes to our villa.
We choose to stay at Beachside Villa's for the second time. This place has become our home away from home. The property Manager Marvilyn is the friendliest and warmest host one good really appreciate. We were allowed to check in early and settled in. This condo is a real gem, it is right on the beach and I really do mean right on the beach. Upon arrival the fridge has a six pack of cold beer along with water and soft drinks. In my opinion a nice perk.
After a swim in the ocean and pool and hello's to our vacation friends at beachside villas we head out to the store for supplies. We are surprised to find all the same people still working in the grocery stores since our last visit. The prices here are about the same as home and the bargains are the liquor prices which are very cheap. The must haves are the Gouda cheese and all the freshly baked breads and pastry.
We have decided to stay on the Dutch side due to the language barrier on that of the French side, although the French side being more expensive due to the euro has many surprises in store. Every Wednesday and Saturday there is a open market with fresh fruits and vegetables along with local meat and fresh seafood. There are many food stands and souvenir to be had. The supermarkets are a real gem. You can find french cheese and pate's beyond your wildest dreams. The french wine selections are beyond belief as well and prices even with the exchange rate are all pretty reasonable considering.
Beaches on the island are everywhere and caution is needed as to leaving tings in your vehicles unattended. Best to bring everything with and avoid any losses. The best beach we found was right in front of our condo. It was nice to just relax watch the cruise ships and very large yachts floating by. There is always a wind blowing and sun shine is abundant on this island. Although this is a public beach it is very private and vendor free. About a quarter of a mile down the beach towards town is a beach bar called Karacters and it as become a fave of ours. They have a Jazz night every Friday and different parties and specials all week long and very good food.
All in all if you and your family look for a relaxing enjoyable vacation try Beachside Villa's. While there we finally met the owners Telly and Yolanda and both were very gracious host. Not once did anyone feel watched or stood over during our stay. Again this is one of the nicest family spots we have found as we have been to several different islands in the past. Any questions or help booing your trip please feel free to contact us via e-mail.
Date of Stay: 03/26/2010
Children in Party: 1
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Beachside Villas
5 family reviews 
