Oyster Bay Beach Resort - St. Maarten

Oyster Bay Beach Resort in St. Maarten was recently ranked as one of the Caribbean's best values from Travel & Leisure Magazine. Its easy to see why! The hotel offers everything a small Caribbean hotel should - clean rooms done in a tasteful color palatte that reflects the natural hues of the Caribbean, self catering possibilities in your own full kitchens, a great location and a beautiful beach. All this and rates start at only $150/night!

My Visit to the Westin Dawn Beach in St. Maarten

On my way to Anguilla in June, I stopped in St. Maarten for a few days at the lovely Westin Dawn Beach. Since this hotel had been kind enough to offer a Honeymoon Giveaway in celebration of my new website design, I thought I should check it out! 

This is the lobby... spacious, warm, and welcoming:

These are photos from my oceanfront room - 3rd floor. The room had 2 walls windows:

It was a really large room. The first thing I did was turn down the AC and open the french doors to let the sea-breeze in...

The view was perfection! I spent long hours working from the wrap around balcony, not a bad office view:

The bathroom was fantastic with clean modern lines and spa amenities:

Then there was the spa... one of the best on the island:

This is the view from my balcony at night. The pool oasis and the city lights beyond... 

And here is Dawn Beach. It was a cloudy day, but you can still see the radiant hues of the water & landscaping...

Getting married? Be sure and enter to win a free honeymoon at the Westin Dawn Beach! 

This hotel is great for families and singles too! Let's start planning! info@caribbeanjourney.com 

Enjoy,

Enter to WIN a FREE Honeymoon @ the Westin in St. Maarten!

In celebration of the new design we launched on our travel website, CaribbeanJourney.com, the Westin Dawn Beach in St. Maarten is giving away a FREE HONEYMOON to one lucky couple! There's no catch, no strings attached, simply enter to win! 

I visited the Westin Dawn Beach in St. Maarten in June. It is my favorite hotel on the island and a great choice for St. Maarten Destination Weddings too! 

Located just minutes from the Princess Julianna Airport, The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, St. Maarten is nestled into the lush hillside and embraced by miles of blue hues, acres of tropical colors, and sandy white beach.

The contest winner will be announced & contacted in October! 

Good Luck!

SXM by Boat & Car

I was only on St. Maarten for 24 hours but managed to snap some great photos of the island as we zipped around by car and by boat...

I loved the international feel of the island. Even the Princess Juliana Airport offered a nice mix of food & souvenirs showcasing the island's mixed heritage. My favorite was Jeff de Bruges - a chocolate shop as sweet to visit as it was to taste. The chocolates are flown in daily from Belguim and worth every cent. (If you too want to fly in to St. Maarten from Europe, there are many options for flights daily!)

You can view my photostream on flickr for more of these photos right here! Enjoy!

{the shoemaker has no shoes}

...and the travel agent doesn't know where to stay during a June visit to St. Maarten...

I'm so intrigued by this little island of dual nations. 

...largely due in part to the great marketing efforts of the St. Maarten Tourist Board's new campaign... they can be credited with these amazing photos...

There are so many options for cheap flights... maybe you want to join me?

St. Maarten is also referred to as the culinary capital of the caribbean... so I think I'll have just as hard a time trying to decide where to dine... 

...maybe my style...

I can't wait for my trip! Any ideas on where to stay?

Culinary Capital of the Caribbean

I copied this list from a press release & thought it worthy of sharing because of the great summaries for many of St. Maarten's restaurants. St. Martin & St. Maarten are often referred to as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean". You decide. Enjoy!

Photo is from Temptation.

Often called the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” the island of St. Maarten gives voice to cooking styles from every corner of the globe with more than 300 restaurants offering Dutch, French, Caribbean, Thai, Italian, Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, Indonesian, Creole and other cuisines. Diners can find romantic restaurants in Cupecoy and Maho, a variety of bistros on Front Street in Philipsburg, and beachside bars and outdoor cafes at Simpson Bay. Some of the top restaurants in St. Maarten: include:

Mr. Busby’s (www.dawnbeachsxm.com) -- Located on St. Maarten’s eastern shore, this beachside restaurant serves breakfast and lunch daily. The menu ranges from salads and cold sandwiches (like crabmeat, chicken, tuna or delectable clubs) to grilled specialties such as mahi mahi, shrimp, grilled lobster, burgers, hot dogs, and baby back ribs. During the evening, Mr. Busby’s is transformed into an Italian restaurant known as Daniel’s By The Sea.

Cupecoy and Maho Bay is situated on the western side of the island, and provides a variety of casual beach-side dining options as well as trendy up-scale restaurants.

Temptation & Rare -- These sister restaurants are located within the Atlantis World Casino, run by chef and owner Dino Jagtiani. Jagtiani trained at the Culinary Institute of America and is a two-time gold medal winner of the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean culinary competition.
Temptation (www.nouveaucaribbean.com) -- Temptation features “Nouveau Caribbean” cuisine served against a waterfall backdrop, all elegantly wrapped in melodic piano music. Menu options include popped black bean crusted sashimi grade tuna, hoisin-lime glazed pork tenderloin, and the “McDino’s” tempura apple pie. The restaurant also includes an elegant, outdoor bar area.

Rare (www.daretoberare.com) -- Rare is one of the most acclaimed steakhouses in St. Maarten for top-quality USDA prime steaks, from 12-ounce filet mignons to 28-ounce porterhouse steaks. There are a variety of sauces and creative side dishes to choose from such as chili-garlic fries, truffled mac ‘n’ cheese, Vidalia onion rings with rhubarb ketchup and wasabi hollandaise. Rare fills a unique niche in the gourmet capital of the Caribbean, and does so with impeccable style.

Bamboo Bernies (www.bamboobernies.net) -- Bamboo Bernies has recently moved to the five-star Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino complex and transformed into an ultra-sleek restaurant and lounge. The Buddha Lounge area serves food and drinks into the early hours of the morning amidst stylish Asian décor. Exotic cocktails include heaven, fire and ice, plus an extensive list of shakes. Guests can enjoy world-class sushi prepared by master chefs from New York and Los Angeles.

Bliss -- Located inside The Caravanserai Beach Resort within walking distance of the Maho strip, Bliss combines open-air seating in a tropical setting with exotic plants and private cabanas. The Taste of Bliss menu includes delectable fresh oysters in vodka shot glasses, gilled sirloin, lobster bruschetta and baked salmon. Bliss is also one of St. Maarten’s most popular night spots during the later hours.

Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St. Maarten, offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants lined along cobblestone streets. Most of the village’s eateries can be found on Front Street including Chesterfield’s, a nautically themed, open-air restaurant, which is an excellent place to enjoy a relaxed meal overlooking Great Bay. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner at a reasonable price, Chesterfield’s main fare includes steak and seafood.

The Greenhouse (www.thegreenhouserestaurant.com) -- The Greenhouse was established in 1986 and offers a laid back, yet lively atmosphere with an outside terrace, tranquil breezes and a picturesque view of the harbor. Menu options include steak, ribs, lobster and fresh seafood. The Greenhouse recently opened a second location in Simpson Bay, next to the Atrium Resort.

Ocean Lounge (www.hhbh.com) -- Situated in the center of Philipsburg, the Holland House Beach Hotel’s newly built, open-air lounge is one of the most stylish spots on the island. Dining options include an inventive selection of light snacks (zucchini soup shooters, salmon and caper bruschetta, tonka bean crème brûlée). Live music sets the mood for a relaxing meal.

Oualichi Beach Bar & Restaurant -- Conveniently located on the boardwalk, Oualichi provides fantastic views of incoming cruise ships from the outdoor terrace and features a nautically-themed dining room. This popular hangout is well known for their pizza and offers casual fare such as sandwiches and wraps.

Taloula Mango’s (www.taloulamangos.com) -- This casual beachfront restaurant serves a variety of sandwiches, seafood, beef, pasta, vegetarian entrées, and some of the best ribs on the island. On weekdays, lunch is accompanied by live music and on Friday evenings, guests can enjoy happy hour with a live DJ.

Ras Bushman’s I-Tal Shack (www.sxmfreedomfighters.com/restaurant) -- Ras Bushman’s I-Tal Shack is a small vegan restaurant located on Bush Road. The I-Tal Shack serves local organic, homegrown vegetarian food and fresh local juices. When not on premises, Ras Bushman can often be found at one of the island’s many entertainment venues with his reggae band, the Freedom Fighters.

Kangaroo Court Café -- Located across from the famous Courthouse, Kangaroo Court is open daily for breakfast and lunch. Kangaroo Court offers an amazing assortment of pastries plus all flavors and types of coffee, cappuccinos, espressos and more. The seating area is situated inside a garden, surrounded by Almond trees and lush vegetation.

Simpson Bay and Cole Bay is situated next to the Princess Juliana Airport, the area is lined with hotels, casinos, and restaurants. A large drawbridge opens six times a day to let mega-yachts into the Isla del Sol Marina. Here travelers can find a variety of beach bars, low-key eateries and outdoor cafes.

The Hideaway -- Located at La Vista Resort on Pelican Key, this charming restaurant is situated next to an infinity pool overlooking Saba island. The Creole-inspired dishes, all made from fresh ingredients, include snapper, shrimp and scallop ceviche.

Pineapple Pete’s (www.pineapplepete.com) -- Known for offering some of the best nightly music, Pineapple Pete’s provides a cozy and casual atmosphere for diners. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, and the menu options include herb crusted rack of lamb, crab stuffed shrimp, lobster thermidor, crab and spinach crusted grouper and more.

Saratoga -- Resembling a Spanish colonial structure from the outside, patrons can enjoy seating indoors or on a marina-side veranda. The menu changes every two days and features selections such as onion-crusted salmon, yellowfin tuna, crispy-fried black sea bass, and rack of venison.

The Stone Restaurant (www.thestonerestaurant.com) -- This unique restaurant offers a new and intriguing method of preparing and serving food. Guests can choose from tender beef filet, vegetarian selections, or fresh seafood. Meals are served on a hot stone and cooked right at the table.

Zee Best (www.zeebestrestaurant.com) -- Known for their large breakfast menu, Zee Best offers more than 20 varieties of pastries, espresso and cappuccinos until 2 p.m. The lunch menu features all the breakfast items, plus burgers, salads, sandwiches and more.

Peg Leg Pub (www.peglegpub.com ) -- Famed as one of St. Maarten’s best steakhouses, the Peg Leg Pub offers tender USDA grain-fed beef, a spectrum of seafood specialties, decadent desserts, super soups and salads, and an extensive appetizer menu. The décor resembles that of a traditional English Pub and the walls are filled with nautical artifacts. For more destination information, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

10 Things You Don't Know About St. Martin

This list is courtesy of Porto Cupecoy in St. Maarten. Read more about this luxury condominium complex here.

10 Things You May Not Know About St. Martin/St. Maarten
1. There are 9172 coconut trees on the island.
2. The island is only 37 square miles, but belongs to two nations.
3. St. Martin/St. Maarten is completely duty free, a big tourist draw.
4. It has the world’s longest emergency number.
5. St. Martin/St. Maarten is known as the Caribbean’s gourmet island.
6. Simpson Bay Lagoon (just steps from Porto Cupecoy) is the largest salt water lagoon in the Caribbean.
7. The island has the world’s shortest runway with regular 747 landings and take offs, which is 2180 meters long. Check out this video of a plane landing on St. Martin.
8. St. Martin/St. Maarten’s temperatures remain constant year-round, averaging about 80 degrees F (27 C); water temperature averages 78 (F).
9. Electrical outlets on Dutch St. Maarten are wired as in the US; the French side of the island uses European current.
10. About 75,000 people live on the island.

I'm Coconuts for Porto Cupecoy!

After a trip to the Caribbean, many visitors start looking for a permanent base in the islands and Porto Cupecoy at Sint Maarten combines the best of the Caribbean with the creature comforts of home.

First, about the island… life on St. Martin/Sint Maarten is so desirable the island is shared between two nations, the Netherlands Antilles and France. According to folklore, to divide the island the two nations decided they would walk westwards, the French along the northern edge, the Dutch along the southern. Wherever they met they would draw a dividing line across the island.

As the story goes, the French set off, having fortified themselves with wine, the Dutch with gin. But, the Dutchmen stopped along the way to sleep off the gin. Consequently, the French were able to cover a greater distance.

Porto Cupecoy is situated on the Dutch side and is surrounded by pristine beaches and the largest salt water lagoon in the Caribbean. The luxury real estate project is set against a backdrop of a Mediterranean-inspired promenade of shops and restaurants that combine European charm with the very best of Caribbean living. The Marina Village will feature European-inspired cafes, bistros, restaurants, artisan galleries, jewelry shops, and designer boutiques. Shopping is convenient with an onsite grocery store, pharmacy and bank.
One, two, three and four-bedroom residences are on sale from US$650,000 to $2+ million. Construction will be complete in the fall, just as chilly winter approaches for the rest of us. Check out floor plans and interiors.

Here are some daydream-inspiring photos of Porto Cupecoy and St. Martin island!

The BEST Caribbean Fall Travel Deals!

The Best Caribbean Fall Travel Deals for 2009!

Below is a short compilation of some of the best deals I’ve seen for FALL travel to the Caribbean!

Bahamas – Insane Discounts!
Seriously , I thought this was a typo. The Wyndham Nassau Resort & a few other Bahamian hotels are offering up to 50% off rates, $300 instant resort credit off room, $50 food/beverage credit on arrival! The Wyndham’s package starts at $115/per person for 3 nights. The Sheraton Nassau is $219/per person. Book and travel by 12/23.

Sandals Resorts – Up to 65% Off!
Sandals Resorts are almost always on sale – but not at 65% off! Take advantage of this amazing discount now. Sandals Resorts are tops on my list of all-inclusive. They offer luxury included, worry free vacations. Book now!

US Virgin Islands – Free Nights!
Many hotels on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John are participating in a 4th Night Free Promo & Offering a $100 Resort Credit. Book by 12/1 and travel by 12/15. You DON’T even need a Passport to visit the US Virgin Islands!

Mexico – Fly Free!
Receive up to 2 free airline tickets when you stay 5 nights or longer at participating hotels. Two of my favorite hotels are participating in this deal – Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa AND Excellence Playa Mujeres! Email me for rates! Book by 11/4 for travel through 4/10/10.

St. Martin – 50% Off!
St. Martin offers two vacations in one, with the split island nations Dutch and French Culture. Enjoy the delicious French cafes and then hop over to St. Maarten for lively entertainment and casinos. The Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort is 50% off starting at $499/per person! Book and travel by 12/19.

Check out my Caribbean Travel Blog for FALL deals showcasing other islands such as Grenada and Villas in St. John.

Do you TWITTER? If not, you should for access to great deals! I’ve been on for only a few months and already seen some fabulous deals on airfare + hotels direct from suppliers. One of my favorite campaigns is the “Trick or Tweet” fun offered by Marriott Resorts. Follow along and earn free drinks, meals, massages, and even room nights!

If you want a customized quote on a FALL vacation – contact me – Laura @ CaribbeanJourney.com or 866-236-1924.

Thanks for your support! I look forward to hearing from you!

Divi Resorts Super Sale!

Check out these low, low rates from Divi Resorts! All of their resorts on are sale... and all rates are valid for travel through December 23, 2009! (holidays & blackout dates do apply)

Aruba ~

Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort ~ Starting at $179 nightly

Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort ~ Starting at $124 nightly!

Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort ~ Starting at $139 nightly!

Barbados ~

Divi Heritage Beach Resort ~ Starting at $99 nightly!

Divi Southwinds Beach Resort ~ Starting at $153 nightly!

Bonaire ~

Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino ~ Starting at $127 nightly!

St. Maarten ~

Divi Little Bay Beach Resort ~ Starting at $148 nightly!

St. Croix ~

Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino ~ Starting at $187 nightly!

Contact me for a custom quote!

Caribbean Airlines

Small isn't necessarily a bad thing in the travel industry. In fact, for years I have seen a growing trend in my clients requesting smaller, more intimate hotels, namely boutique hotels. Whether or not Caribbean Airlines wants this title, I feel they do qualify as a boutique airline. The beauty of smaller companies is often more attention to detail, a lower staff to guest ratio, and overall more personalized service. Well, the Trinidad based Caribbean Airlines offers all of the above.

I don't usually take a stand on recommending one airline over another - honestly, at this point in time all the major players have disappointed me and my clients with last minute inconvenient schedule changes, fare hikes, and commission cuts. I am loyal to Air Jamaica - primarily from my own wonderful experiences of flying with them on over 50 occasions. But, the smaller Caribbean Airlines deserves attention too! Caribbean Airlines is available to book directly or through many wholesalers, including one of my favorites, Travel Impressions. Caribbean Airlines service the following islands: Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Caracas, Guyana, and Surinam from Fort. Laurderale, Toronto, Miami, London, or New York.
Let me know if I can arrange your next vacation with Caribbean Airlines!

JetBlue Adds More Caribbean Flights!

Since starting service to the Caribbean, JetBlue often has the best deals around for the markets it serves. Starting this winter, JetBlue will add the Dutch/French combo island of St. Maarten/St. Martin and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic to its schedule. Both of these new destinations will be served with flights from JFK in New York.