This resort is past it's prime. Not worth what they charge.

Can I ask when was the last time you were there and what exactly was it that you did not care for??

Go to the Hotel section on this forum and read the reviews and decide for yoursel. You'll see a lot of inconsistent comments which shouldn't happen at a resort of this caliber.

jakemax...it's important to check out as many resources as you can. Trip Advisor is wonderful and I learn a great deal from those who contribute on this forum, but I also consistently find that I do NOT agree with all posts. For example, I've been hopping around the Caribbean for 25+ years and continue to go back to St. John in the US Virgins. It's my favorite place and I love Caneel Bay Resort, which is also an expensive place that gets mixed reviews on this forum. Some people go to Caneel expecting the Ritz in NYC...that's not the atmosphere here at all. Totally different, but luxurious none the less with stunning beaches and lush surroundings. I love what my money buys here.

Therefore, what someone absolutely loves, another person might hate. So it is always wise to try to read between the lines -- note where the poster lives (a small town, big city, another island, etc.), try to determine where else the poster has been (in other words, what other islands, what other hotels, etc.). Does this individual seem like they might have the same background/preferences you would have?

I cannot tell you how many posts I've read where someone is absolutely crazy about a place and you then learn that it is the FIRST and ONLY place they have ever been in the islands. So take it with a grain of salt. The best reviews make comparisons -- one island to others, one resort to others, one restaurant to others, etc. A poster who has nothing to compare cannot offer nearly as much info as one who has traveled extensively and stayed at all sorts of places. That's why you also need to check out books like Frommers & Fodors and one very good book by Kay Showker, 100 Best Resorts of the Caribbean, offers extensive info on a great variety of luxury resorts. You will note that La Samanna is the only resort on St. Martin/St. Maarten that is listed in this book. The Spa at La Samanna was also just listed in the new 20 Best Spas of the World (pick up the mag at Borders and read with a cup of joe).

That being said, LS would probably NOT be my cup of tea as I prefer a quiet island (no traffic, no crowds, no casinos, and as crime-free as possible). But others would disagree... Advice: Research, Research, Research!!!

Jakemax,

I sure don't want to be a downer, but I agree with one of the other posts...it's a resort WAY past it's prime. We payed more per night at La Samana than we did for a five star in Anguilla. Our room at La Samana was not updated, and the furniture was old and warn. The grounds were a mess and even their pool looked old. Aside from that the people were down right rude to us. I really hope you have a much better experience because everyone deserves to have a good vacation.

Best of luck!

Lovethesungal

Thanks for the reply. When did you visit LaSamanna?

jakemax

kzdallas

Thanks for the honest info.............jakemax

Hey jakemax,

we were there in December of 06.

My wife and I stayed at LaSamana for our honeymoon in May 2005. We read many of these reviews, some very unkind about the hotel, but we were plesantly surprised that the staff was warm and welcoming. We got an upgrade on our room and thought everyone was attentive. It is very quiet, unless you go to the casinos not far from the hotel. But don't expect a resort like in the states. This hotel is very European, very relaxed, and you have to adjust to the island tempermant. Would recommend this hotel if you are looking for peace and warm tranquility.