My boyfriend and I visited St. Maarten and stayed at OBBR in October 2004. We shared some of the same experiences as others on this BB. Some good, some interesting and some just not worth revisiting, because we were on vacation.
We had a one bedroom suite, which was plenty big, since we spent most of our time out of the room, except to sleep and eat a meal or two. It wasn't the view of choice, which was of the parking corridor for cars; needless to say we did not spend much time on our balcony, since all we saw were people coming back from the pool, the beach or outings in town. The pictures online for this resort are pretty much accurate. I made good use of the kitchen, making daiquiris and lasagna, which I shared with Francesca, our room staff. The pool was great with the infinity feature, making you feel like you were over the sea. The downside was, arriving at the resort to find that you are charged a per day fee for the use of AC. We decided initially to see if we were okay with just the ceiling fans, then ended up asking for it to be turned on after day four. We went at the time of year when it is raining, so the humidity did not help the room fans cool us off, and opening the windows just blew warm wet air. We expected this for this time of year, so we didn't complain and went with it. This not your five star resort, and we have stayed at much nicer and better quality resorts, but we live and learn. The front desk staff could have definitely been friendlier. I felt the same way as one the other vacationer’s; that you felt wrong for asking a question or for needing any service. The wait staff was great in the restaurant. We had breakfast there every morning on their plan. It was 7 meals for $60. This was great for us since we are late risers, and would not have time to enjoy breakfast at other spots on the island. Although we heard that Mr. Busby’s on OBBR’s beach was good. Mrs. B’s Spot was a delicious place for ribs and a beer while on the beach.
The highlight of our stay at OBBR was our room courtesy staff. She was absolutely wonderful and a delight. She cleaned our room’s everyday, although we are not messy individuals, which she appreciated. She always smiled and came when it was convenient for us. We are not overly picky, but we like clean floors, towels, bathrooms, bedding and appliances. All this was well kept and up to date. I made sure (financially and verbally) that Francesca knew we appreciated her services. Most think this is part of the cost, but when you are in a timeshare, they are not always guaranteed to come everyday without paying an extra fee, plus they are providing a service I don't want to do when I am on holiday.
The island was absolutely what the doctor ordered, despite rain. On the days we had good weather we toured the island and enjoyed the local cuisine, which we found tasty. One of our favored meals was at The Boathouse, can you say yummy to the tummy!, and decent service as well. Another of our likes was in Phillipsburg, a shanty on the side of the road in a parking lot, where they served ribs that melted in your mouth, and sauce that said 'pour a little more over me'. It was located near the KFC and Suzuki dealer (I think) on the way to the Airport, on the left-hand-side. And worth it too, you get a container of ribs (about 10 cut baby back’s) for $3.00 US dollars. This was a cheap meal and quick off the grill. These are the experiences that make our trips worth while. We don't mind spending money on a good meal, but when you are tired and not sure where to eat, this helps. The locales are very friendly and eager for you to buy or taste their wares. We did not do much shopping this trip, but know where to go when we return in two years.
The beaches are absolutely worth small or long day trips, and the best beach of them all to us was Orient beach. The water was so warm and blue that you then knew why you came to St. Maarten for your vacation. There is a lot of activity and places to kick your feet up and have a drink or a snack and watch the water or people. Further down is a nudist area, which is great for those who like to be un-inhibited. There were some gaukers, but for the most part, people were just enjoying sun and fun.
Definitely rent a car or jeep. We rented a jeep from the rental agency located in the hotel (Vacation Car Rental – VCR). I spoke and emailed Charles before our arrival, to arrange pick-up at the airport. Daniel picked us up (on time) from the airport, gave us a second vehicle to drive behind him to the resort, and when we arrived and checked in, he took care of our rental and had us on our way. We specifically asked for an older Suzuki, one because it’s cheaper and plus we don’t feel so bad getting sand and dirt from the beach in an older vehicle. We called it our ‘struggle buggy’ because it was loud when we were going up the hills/streets of St. Maarten, but boy did it save on gas. The only time we filled up was when turned the car in. We were there for 8 days and used the car everyday.
If you are considering going to St. Maarten for relaxation, you will not be disappointed.
Cheers
