Hold on....

The Usual Suspects: TeamNYC Jamie (JamieB), Danny, and Kevin (KevinNYC), Git R Done JD (ruralcarrier), Wendell (SXMWendell), Jill (JillUSPS) and Charlie, The "chicks" Sheila (She314), Sue, Gretchen (gsk), and Leslie, and Cheryl and Ted of course too. Unfortunately, due to those pesky timeshare schedules everyone's trips were scattered a bit throughout the weeks. Therefore, everyone was not all there even for ONE night. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Sad.gif" alt="" />

My friends Julie and Phil joined me over the Regatta for about a week. They are normally cruisers and I FINALLY got them to stay on SXM for more than one day. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Clapping.gif" alt="" /> I had my Regatta itinerary already set when they decided to join me. So, I dragged them everywhere with me. I think they had a little fun - non? Well, at the very least we got one more TTOL addict. Uh, hi Julie!

[color:"orange"]Beaches[/color]
I prefer the quiet beaches with people NOT packed in like sardines. But, we tried to be a bit eclectic this time. However, we always ended up at what we liked best in the end.

Baie Rouge - still one of my favorites. Went twice this trip. First trip was mid week. Rather quiet. Second visit was Regatta Sunday. Since the Regatta was canceled this day several of the racing boats were anchored in the bay. (photo) Beach was pretty crowded. Huh, and that was BEFORE a bus dropped off 60 or so screaming and laughing high school students who plopped down RIGHT next to us. We tried humming the theme song for JAWS, but no such luck. They did not stay too long, and our quiet beach day resumed.

Mullet - Another favorite. 3 times this trip. One day calm seas, another moderate seas, and the last day pretty rough surf with several surfers enjoying the day. (photo) Beach relatively crowded, but still plenty of room to spread out and not be bothered by anyone else.

Orient - Not typically a beach I would hit. But, made a last minute decision with Julie and Phil to head over. We sat between Bikini and Coco Beach in the area with no chairs/bars. Ended up spending several hours and had a lovely day. Took advantage of being in that area and stopped by friends who live in Dawn Beach on the way home.

Dawn - Honestly had not been in years to this beach. IMO quite sad to see ALL the construction going on there. Ick. (photo) Not too fond of the chair row seating - but the beach was beautiful anyway and had lots of fun with the company. Beach hawkers were pretty present here. Was way over them when we ended up having a very interesting and funny conversation with one woman. Hey don't forget kids, keep 2/30/07 open.

Cupecoy - Stopped by on the way home from Baie Rouge for drinks at Cliffhanger . BTW, the service was efficient (the bartenders even got up off the table they were sitting and drinking at for us) and friendly. Phil lounged on the beach below for a bit while Julie and I relaxed overhead. I was overwhelmed with the Cliff (ick!) that loomed up above. (photo from the Lambada)

[color:"purple"]Restaurants[/color]

I normally don't dine out at all. However, I have to think about the times I actually ate at home this trip!

I already gave a quick synopsis on Sandy's Dutch side restaurant post a few weeks back. But, here is the more detailed version:

Halsey's - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> We did not get our act together and actually make reservations. However, Jessica was able to accommodate our table of 12 (Git R Done, Team NYC, Cheryl & Ted, Julie, Phil and me) anyway. The rest of the restaurant was full, with another very large table right next to us. Jessica and staff were hustling to keep the whole place happy. We all had to adjust a bit to get ourselves on island time dining, and then we were just fine. Both Jessica and her friendly staff did a great job trying to keep us happy - and a little entertained to boot! (Don't Hate, Participate! Ngokay?) As usual, food excellent and staff very friendly. I am still waiting for Jessica and Ryan's Blanchard-type story to come out. Huh, A Trip to the Lagoon? This was the first night Julie and Phil met a large group of the Regatta Usual Suspects. They came back for more with me the next night, so I guess they were not too scared. Although, Julie did have a rather horrifying (and very small) experience with "one of us" in the bathroom that will undoutedly scar her for life. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Devil.gif" alt="" />

[color:"black"]Chesterfield's[/color] - Very disappointing. Kevin touched upon it in Sandy's post. Ok, my side. Danny called FROM the restaurant to let us know that they had just sat down at their table. I told him that we were ON OUR WAY. Ok, well, sure, I lied. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Wink.gif" alt="" /> We had another BBC at home in Beacon Hill before we even headed out. We hit a little traffic, parked at the University, walked to the center of town, walked ALL the way down the VERY crowded boardwalk (it was Heineken Regatta Friday party in Philipsburg) to The Greenhouse and on to Chesterfields.

We found Jamie, Danny, and Kevin at their table - not yet having received any food. (My guess it had been AT LEAST an hour since Danny called me.) We put in for our table and ordered and paid for a drink at the bar while we waited. Our wait ended up only being about 10 minutes. We grabbed our drinks from the bar and were seated at a patio table. Yeah, sorry, Kev, WE did have a breeze. Just as we were sitting down, we noticed the other kids were receiving their appetizers. We received the menu and were a bit disappointed that they had a Regatta Menu. It was a little understandable, keep their menu simple, serve more patrons. Whatever. However, the selections were extremely limited. But, no big deal, we all found something to order. Our meals came out within 10 minutes or so. Wow, we were not prepared for the drive-thru service! My shrimp (and when I say shrimp, we are talking shrimpy... I should have brought my glasses!) I had received the wrong side. The not-so-friendly waitress whisked my plate away, and I swear I saw her walk through one door and out through another with one smooth movement. Ok, maybe not, but it seemed like so. We kidded that she surely dumped the wrong side and stole someone else's correct side. My shrimp was cold and the meal was just "awright". Whatever, no big deal.

Since we were seated and done eating within 20 minutes or se we decided to linger and wait for those slow eaters from NYC by ordering a drink at our table. Danny actually came by to check on us. We teased with him a bit by letting him assume that we hadn't eaten yet. However, we then asked when they would be done b/c we were getting a bit antsy. He was FLOORED that we had already eaten.

We asked for our bill. Thankfully, Phil looked it over. We had been charged for 3 drinks each. But, we had only each had one ordered with our dinner. We paid for one at the bar and ordered one with the meal. We had to do some aggressive arguing with the waitress to get the mistake corrected. She insisted that we had the other drinks. It was VERY frustrating trying to get this straightened out. Then, when she brought the corrected bill back she stood over Phil with arms folded and waited for him to sign. I found that very rude. Anyhoo, that story was WAY longer than it needed to be. I won't even go into kevin/Danny's experience. You can read it here if you want: Dutch side restaurant list Bottom line, uh, neither of our tables had a good experience here. I know other's enjoy it here. And, that's fine. I, however, will not be trekking over to Phbg when there are places I enjoy much more closer to home.

Pineapple Pete's - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> After Chesterfield's the night before this was a most welcome change. This very laid back staff is very friendly and very efficient. They have a well oiled machine here. Whereas no one seemed to know what the other was doing at Chesterfields, the staff here knew EXACTLY what they were all doing (from the host/owner, to the server, to the busers, etc.). We were seated right next to a set table of 16 and were a bit worried that once this party arrived that they would affect our dining experience. However, everything was wonderful. And, the food was great as usual. They had a very small space last year and have expanded quite a bit. They obviously have good business. Well deserved IMO.

Banana's - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> Got a late start out to the Simpson Bay area for the final Regatta night party. Simpson Bay was PACKED. Therefore, we were looking for anywhere that could get us in quick as we were starving. We jumped into Bananas and had a nice meal on a very busy night.

Pizza Galley - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> This place NEVER disappoints. Pizza is always good here. And, it doesn't hurt that the wine aint bad either.

Wharf - eh. just ok. Would not go back. Not, that others shouldn't. I just have other favorites that I would hit before going back here again.

Spiga - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> lovely Grand Case setting with wonderful company and great food.

Tutta Pasta - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> last minute decision dining and was very happy in our decision. Nice little place, good food. Besides, we were the youngest people dining there by a mile, so we were feeling quite youthful! Hey, don't hate, rejuvenate. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Kiss.gif" alt="" />

Terra - <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> $$$$ but great presentation and excellent meal. Just be prepared for a very slow, relaxing dining experience. Had a lovely dinner with old SXM friends. 4 hours later they were gently kicking us out of their closed restaurant.

Buccaneer Beach Bar - quick lunch after the Regatta Spectator Boat sail. Good burgers. But, Neil, ya need to speed up that grilling process..... we were STARVING! The GIT R DONE's were making some weird noises at their table. It was SO embarrassing. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Devil.gif" alt="" />

[color:"green"]REGATTA[/color]
A nice TTOL group ventured out on the Lambada to watch the race from sea. Thankfully, everyone was on time this year. Phew, including me. An 8 a.m. bridge opening gave both Barbara and my group a bit of pause that we would not make it in time. But, we did. There were quite a few TTOLers on the boat. (photo) I got a chance to talk to just about everyone. However, there were a few of you that never mentioned on the post that you would be joining us, so I wasn't on the lookout for you. I only knew you were part of our group on the boat when you told me at the SMYC party. Sorry!!!! It was a lovely sail. (photo) Last year we did get much closer to the boats. However, this year we did sail out further from just Simpson Bay, which was nice. In addition, Barbara's husband, Diederick, was sailing on one of the boats, so we had someone to cheer for. Hey, they should have won - if nothing else, just trying to outrun Barbara screaming, DIEDERICK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! from our boat! (photo) Thanks to Robert & Bea and www.saint-martin-activities.com for allowing us to all book the sail so easily.

Thursday night party at PDP - headed over with Team Git R Done after dinner at Halsey's. Not as crowded and rowdy as last year. However, the band was very good - playing a great mix of music. (photo)

Friday night in Philipsburg - We walked through the crowds on our way to Chesterfields and then back through on our way back. We stopped briefly at the Sint Rose Arcade area where I ran into some old friends. Like last year it was VERY warm with the big crowds crammed into small spaces. I felt a bit uncomfortable, and not too entertained, so we left and headed back to Simpson Bay to end our evening.

Saturday night in Marigot - as per last year, we did not go. No particular reason. Just the way it works into other things we want to do.

Sunday night Kim Sha Beach, Simpson Bay - Since the Regatta was canceled earlier in the day, the party was a bit quieter than normal. Normally the sailors are rowdy and get the rest of the crowd amped up. However, they were all either passed out already or sleeping, etc, b/c there was not that same vibe as in years past. And, the band Ozalmalti just wasn't doing it for me. The opening bands were far more entertaining IMO. Besides, after having Jimmy Cliff put on a fantastic, fun performance last year, it really made this year's performers look rather pathetic. But, not matter, we had fun hanging out with everyone up by our usual spot at BBB. (photo)

However, we did take off earlier than usual and headed to Halsey's for their after hours party. (photo) Last year we hung out at BBB so long that by the time we got to Halsey's they were already out of beer. Although Jessica assured me that it would not happen again, we surely wanted to make sure we were there before it did! The crowd was just starting to arrive when we got there. We got our beers and settled in for some great music and fun people. (photo) I think everyone agreed that this was the highlight of the night. The band Broken String (photo) was far more entertaining than the Regatta headliner. The party here was for Team Golden Dog which races in the Regatta and raises money "to help homeless animals the world over find their forever homes" Money was collected at the party as well. (photo) (Hmmm, I bet we can get a few TTOL member $$$ together next year to help sponsor them - huh?) We tried to stick it out until the end as we were having fun. But, eventually, the old bones (and the beers) forced us to pack it in about 2 a.m. However, fun, fun. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Banana.gif" alt="" />

[color:"purple"]Misc Nightlife[/color]

SMYC TTOL party - Sheila organized a great turnout. (photo) Our group started gathering outside SMYC and once there we had a hard time dragging all us chit chatters inside where Neil had A Day at the Beach playing some great music. Ken did his best to get us inside, and eventually we did all make it in. Saw some familiar faces and met lots of new ones. (photo) (photo) Thanks to everyone who stopped by. Afterwards people spread out over Simpson Bay for dinner. Several of us ended up at Pizza Galley (photo) for a great meal. Poor Kelly (Kelann) and Jim and sat next to our motley group and were probably wishing they had rethought that decision. Some of us hadn't eaten yet that day and were a bit ornary. LOL Sorry for any rudeness guys!

The Pizza Galley owner figured we knew the owner of the left behind hat from another table. (He asked us if we were also TTOL people - yeah, he knows....) Of course we did. So, we found a lovely new home at the Lady C for this hat. (photo) Well, that's until the owner returned later that evening looking for his hat. After a little "hot and cold" - he found it! (photo)

Several nice pre-evening and post evening drinks at Lady C and Buccaneer. Always nice to know you'll run into someone at some point each evening. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Cheers.gif" alt="" />

BLISS - surprising to me especially -- I ended here BOTH nights on my last weekend. Between having people stay with me and carousing with the above people, I had not spent enough - or any - time with some of my dear SXM friends. But, thankfully, I was able to hook up with them this last weekend. On both nights I was out WAY later that I should have been. But, I had tons of fun with great SXM friends.

[color:"red"]WEATHER[/color]
The weather was very nice. Last year it was a bit stagnant and very hot. This year was great. Of course, there was not enough wind for Sunday's Regatta. However, on shore, there was a nice gentle breeze. And, two days later the winds were quite strong. Only one icky day - very overcast, and should I even say "cool"? Still a nice relaxing day. Jamie and Danny stopped by before lunchtime and we had some tea and crumpets out on the beach and chit chatted away the afternoon. (photo) We did try to get a hold of others to join us and bring us more tea. But, surprsingly enough, no takers. There were a few downpoars my last evening through the morning. But, it cleared up for some last minute sun for me before departure.

[color:"brown"]MISC notes[/color]
Traffic really wasn't too bad. I did hit some here and there. But, it was a lot better than it had been in Regatta's past. Of course, I do avoid Simpson Bay at any time when bridges could be going up or just general Regatta road congestion.

FOOD EXPRESS in Maho continues to be an excellent little grocery for our area. I only had to venture out to COST U LESS and Le Grand Marché once to get more of the bulk items I needed. Otherwise, it was perfect for any must needs/quick gets. The only thing I did have a probelm finding was bandaids. I could not find any in the Maho area. And, I was not in the mood to drive far. So, a little duct tape and all was good.

I am not into the shopping thing. But, we did do a speed shopping one afternoon to get some souvenirs for the kiddies, etc. We did a fly-by to DK Gems to say hello to Deepti. After our speed shopping was done, we once again stopped by to see Deepti about something Phil was interested in. Even though his purchase was small by comparison to what is in the store she was very attentive, helpful, and friendly - even to little ole me who wears no bling-bling. Thanks for helping them out Deepti!

JD was looking VERY daper with his newly clean shaven face. Lookin' good Mr. Kotter! Uh, Wendell...... you are SO next. When you least expect it.... <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Devil.gif" alt="" /> Oh, JD, thanks again for the parking pass hook-up! You're the best!

Speaking of Wendell... He has a lovely dance move that I know will be all the rage at this year's prom. Unfortunately, we did not ever capture it on video. However, more than one person had it perfectly mastered and could demonstrate it for you I am sure. Or, even better, grab Wendell next time you see him. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Banana.gif" alt="" />

All in all a fabulous trip. It was not even close to relaxing - just plain fun. And, that's good. My bones are creakin', my liver is screamin', I need an extra blessing from Pope Kevin.... but other than that....

Great to see everyone again. (I think some of us have perfected the stalking technique for sure!) And, wonderful to meet some new faces too!

You still awake? <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/snore.gif" alt="" />
aaaaaaaand...... SCENE. <click!>

To see slideshow or 3 pages of photos: Andrea's photos

peace. [Linked Image]