Hey Loves!
As promised, I am back blogging! This year is full of exciting travel adventures, unexpected surprises, and a lot of good food. So, let’s keep these good vibes going and catch you up on some solo TRAVEL TEA! With this solo trip, I was A LOT more confident than my solo trip from last year. I will blog about that trip later because I know y’all are ready for the tea on this destination!
I choose an island in the Caribbean once a year to relax. The Caribbean is an escape-cation for me. Meaning, no crazy plans or adventures. During this time, I unwind, spend time with God, read, pour into myself, and recharge. It is so important for me to take this time for myself, get some much-needed self-care, and relax. Pack your virtual passports because our first stop is the wonderful island of Sint Maarten (Dutch side) and Saint Martin (French side)! Two nations, one island (and honestly two different worlds)!
Y’all, I did not have enough time to explore everything this island had to offer. There is so much more to explore! This destination is on my “Travel Spinnablock” list. For those of you who are new here, (Welcome Loves!), The “Travel Spinnablock” list is my carefully curated catalog of destinations that have left an indelible mark on my heart to the point where I will return on multiple occasions to relive and discover additional enchanting experiences. (Basically, I love the destination so much, I need to run the experience back lol).
Now, back to our regularly scheduled Travel Tea. I originally was scheduled to travel here in September 2017, however, a Hurricane, unfortunately, canceled that trip. Traveling to this amazing destination with delicious food, beautiful culture, and gorgeous views was an experience that I am forever grateful for. I truly believe that when you are meant to be in a place, it will happen in divine timing.
In this blog, we are going to focus on the Dutch side, Sint Maarten. (No worries, we will discuss the French side, Saint Martin, in a separate post).
Sint Maarten Background
Sint Maarten is an autonomous part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located on the southern part of the island of Saint Martin. While French and Dutch are the main languages, both sides speak English. The Dutch capital, Phillipsburg, is located on the island’s southern coast. Known for its vibrant architecture, shopping, and attractions, Phillipsburg offers a wide area of bustling activities for tourists. Although small at only 13 square miles, Sint Maarten is largely known for its shopping, activities, casinos, and captivating nightlife. In other words, you will have a GOOD time! Across from my resort, a strip filled with restaurants, clubs, bars, and other fun experiences for tourists to indulge in. Sint Maarten offers a beautiful and captivating blend of Dutch and Caribbean culture, making it a fascinating destination for travelers who seek relaxation and adventure.
When traveling solo in the Caribbean, I make it a priority to stay at all-inclusive resorts for my convenience (and safety). That way, if I ever have a lazy day and do not want to leave the resort, everything is at the touch of my fingertips. (Remember, my Caribbean trips are extremely lowkey). There are not many all-inclusive resorts in Sint Maarten. During my vacation in Sint Maarten, I stayed at the stunning and luxurious adults only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort. The resort is a short five-minute drive from Princess Juliana International Airport. Additionally, the resort offers easy access to Maho Beach, famously known for plane spotting as aircraft fly low overhead when landing at Princess Juliana International Airport. I literally would plane watch from my balcony lol.
Resort Life
The Sonesta Ocean Point Resort has 130 non-smoking suites and gives a “resort within a resort” vibes with all the features and amenities. As soon as I arrived from the airport, I was escorted to the VIP waiting area to be driven inside the resort. Once inside, I was greeted with a welcome drink and much much-needed scented cool face towel. Once in my room, I was ready to begin my vacation and explore what this beautiful island had to offer.
The resort also gives Sonesta Ocean Point guests access to the restaurants, casino, and activities at the adjacent Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. This benefit is not mutually exclusive as the guests from Sonesta Maho Beach do not have access to the Sonesta Ocean Point property. The Sonesta Maho Beach resort is family-oriented and for all ages. While exploring the adjacent resort, I quickly realized that I valued the quietness of the adults-only resort I stayed at. However, I will say the busyness and ample activities make Sonesta Maho Beach Resort a great place for family vacationing.
Let’s Eat!
While at the resort, I dined at some of the restaurants that featured a specially curated menu each night of the week. The dining experiences were phenomenal, and I thoroughly enjoyed some of the onsite restaurants. The food was fresh and tasty.
Azul Restaurant
The signature restaurant is Azul Restaurant, which is highly noted for its culinary excellence and elegant panoramic oceanfront setting. Azul Restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The daily curated menus offer several courses to feast on throughout your dining experiences. Additionally, the restaurant offers an extensive wine list thoughtfully paired with the menu offerings, enhancing the dining experience.
I had a spectacular view watching the mesmerizing sunset, enjoying the gentle sea breezes, and listening to the waves crash against the rocks at dinner.
💎: The Bluefin Restaurant and rooftop bar is located above Azul, offering an amazing light bites menu during golden hour.
Portofino Restaurant
Want a taste of Italy in the Caribbean? Then, Portofino Restaurant offers a delicious five-course menu celebrating authentic Italian dishes. Portofino has a cozy and romantic ambiance that is warm and inviting. The restaurant features an extensive wine list to pair perfectly with each course. I thoroughly enjoyed my meal while reading my book and listening to smooth jazz in the background.
Sonesta Ocean Point guests can also feast on other dining options at the adjacent resort, at places such as The Palms Grill, Ocean Terrace, Pizzeria Napoli, and other yummy food spots.
Entertainment
The resort offers endless entertainment options throughout the day into the evening. From live band performances to entertaining shows, there is ALWAYS something fun to experience at the resort. If you want to venture off, the Maho strip is right across the street filled with lounges, bars, and eccentric restaurants!
Fun in the Sun
The resort features several pools including an infinity pool and swim-up bar, 24-hour room service, as well as a fitness center. Butler services are available for the top suite options.
Fun fact: I originally was supposed to wear this bathing suit on my canceled trip to Saint Martin in 2017. I was so grateful to wear (and fit) all the clothes I planned to wear during that trip 6 years ago! Don’t ask me why I still have vacation clothes from 6 years ago lol- it felt like a full-circle moment.
I have been on a reading binge this year (32 books completed so far) and decided to do some reading by the pool. It was at this moment I should have known I messed up. A relaxing day reading by the pool turned into me getting sunburned on my face. I packed my Black Girl Sunscreen and left it in my room. At least I enjoyed my book and had some good drinks!
🔑: Please always wear your sunscreen in Sint Maarten! The sun is BRUTAL and sunburn ain’t cute!
Getting Around
Getting around the island is easy. I learned how to negotiate taxi fares like a local one because the taxi drivers will subjectively hike their prices. Yesterday’s price ain’t today’s price in Sint Maarten lol. I highly recommend hiring a private driver where you negotiate on an agreed-upon price. I had an amazing driver who chauffeured me around to where I desired to go and gave helpful tips for the duration of my stay on the island.
Fun Things to Do
There are plenty of fun activities to do in Sint Maarten. Below are a few top choices:
The World’s Steepest Zipline
For travelers who desire a heart-racing, exhilarating adventure, the Flying Dutchman at The Rainforest Adventures Park is an excellent choice! Known as the “Steepest Zipline in the World”, adrenaline junkies and adventure enthusiasts will gear up for an adventure of a lifetime. This journey zips travelers over 2800 feet down the mountainside, with breathtaking panoramic views.
Topper’s Rhum Distillery
You can’t come to the Caribbean without trying some rum! Sample a variety of artisanal hand-crafted rums during a rum tasting. Visitors can also tour the distillery and learn about the distillation process.
Casino Royale
Thinking about trying your luck with gambling? Well, this experience is available on the Dutch side, as it is not permitted on the French side. Casino Royale in Maho Village is one of the largest and most renowned casinos in the Caribbean. Offering a vibrant gaming scene, you will be entertained with the endless gaming options. Perfectly located near an array of bars and nightclubs, you will get more than you bargained for even after you throw in your last chip.
🔑: DISCLAIMER: Legal and Abroad™️ does not endorse gambling of any kind. We encourage users who participate in gambling to gamble responsibly and within their means. Gambling should be a form of entertainment. Legal and Abroad™️ advises that money and time limits be set on gaming activities. If you know someone who is struggling with a gambling addiction, we encourage seeking help from professional organizations and support services dedicated to responsible gambling.
Beach Me, Please
As a woman who grew up on the beach, I love beaches! Now, I would go to the beach every day if I lived closer to one. Sint Maarten offers a variety of beach experiences to suit all preferences. Whether you want to relax, party, or soak up the sun in the nude- there is a beach tailored made for your desired experience. I have listed a few below as suggestions.
Maho Beach
Maho Beach is one of the most iconic and famous beaches in the world. The beach is located at the end of the Princess Juliana International Airport runway. Beachgoers love to plane watch as the massive aircrafts approach the island and thrilling low heights skimming above their heads. Maho Beach was a short distance from my resort. I would often sit on my balcony and watch as planes fly low over the beach as they touched down on the runway. It is an amazing view and experience!
🔑: Adhering to all safety guidelines at Maho Beach is of utmost importance. Although the experience is one-of-a-kind, travelers should exercise caution to avoid unnecessary harm during this experience.
Mullet Bay Beach
Mullet Bay Beach beach is a favorite among tourists and a surfer’s paradise. Boasting crystal-clear turquoise water and white sand, it is a perfect place for relaxation. This beach offers a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Aside from beach activities, at the adjacent, Mullet Bay Golf Course, golfers can partake in a fun golfing experience. Mullet Bay Beach is a dreamy place to watch the magical backdrop of a Caribbean sunset. You will truly enjoy this slice of paradise during the golden hour.
Cupecoy Bay
Situated on the southwestern tip of Sint Maarten, Cupecoy Bay offers phenomenal sunsets. The beach offers stunning limestone cliffs and multiple intimate beaches that cater to a variety of experiences for each traveler. Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, cave explorations, or simply relaxing on the beach. This beach also has a clothing-optional section if that suits your fancy.
Cupecoy Bay Photoshoot
Speaking of Cupecoy Bay, during this trip, I decided to partake in a flying dress photoshoot. If you have been a part of the LAA family for a while, you will recall the flying dress photoshoot in Dubai from 2019. This time, I wanted to create new memories with a beach scene and brighter colors. This experience was so beautiful and memorable! My MUA was the talented Magali Beauvue. When I met her, we talked as if we were old friends.
She even has her own makeup line! As a MUA enthusiast and lover of makeup, I purchased her products and encourage you to support her! You can support her here. Her products are amazing!
I truly enjoyed this photoshoot although it was HOTTTTTT! Being by the water is one of my favorite places in the world, so to have a photoshoot on the beach was a dream come true. The photographer and the event planner did so much behind-the-scenes work during my photoshoot to create the magic you see in the pictures below!
Time for lil spontaneity!
Now y’all know I can never sit still when traveling. During the middle of my stay, I caught a flight and took a lil’ trippy trip to a neighboring island for a few days. Stay tuned for my next blog (dropping next week) where we will explore a destination that stole a piece of my heart. I am almost certain you did not know it existed! (I know I didn’t lol).
Until our next adventure abroad,
Stay Grateful, Love Deep, Dream BIG, and Happy Travels!