This was our 4th stay here at GCBC, and our LAST! We've stayed here in the past as we liked the location, the security, and the beauty of the property. When we first started staying here, it appeared that customer satisfaction WAS (past tense!) #1 on the list of Property Manager, Steve Wright, and his staff. Please remember, these are individually owned condos, being rented out when the owners are not in residence. We made our reservations directly through the GCBC reservation site MONTHS in advance. I followed up our reservation TWICE via email, confirming the TYPE of unit and location (oceanfront, loft) as we've had this problem before. We were also charged the pre-payment for this category. Upon our arrival after a long day of travel, we were told upon check in that there was a "little problem." For 2 nights, we would have to settle for a "studio" (bump down) unit, and then we could move to the unit reserved. Well, WHO wants to live out of a suitcase for 2 days - or unpack and then repack up??? And we didn't grocery shop initially - who wants to move all that?? We had planned to entertain friends who were also in St. Martin the night following our arrival but had to cancel due to the room change (there was NO living area in the studio as there is in the loft). I felt like we were not able to unpack, unwind, and start our vacation immediately - we had to wait to get settled 2 days! This happened on our prior stay. It appears that serving the condo owners has become their first priority by filling up ALL units, regardless of what category you reserve. Upon contacting the front desk of our unhappiness and wanting to be compensated for the inconvenience, I was told they would get back with me. They never did.......we had to follow up again more than a week later. A mere $100 credit was given, but was NOT enough to earn our repeat business again. We were expecting at least a one-night credit. For $385 a night, and accepting this full rate for the deposit, you would expect your reserved room category to be ready and waiting. Unfortunately, this was not the case with us and MANY of the other guests we spoke with during our 12 day stay. It's obviously an on-going problem, one that appears they have not rectified. While I fully understand that they cannot guarantee you the location (floor, specific unit number) they SHOULD be able to guarantee you the category, since they don't hesitate to take your deposit at that rate! So, if you want to gamble on getting what you reserve go ahead, but don't say you weren't forewarned! We prefer to know fully what to expect upon our arrival. Had they emailed prior, asking if this would be acceptable, we might have considered going back. We like to relax and unwind when on vacation, not have to haggle with management. We'll be staying elsewhere on our next visit.

If you want cheap, clean, convenient, this fills the bill. But you'll also get tiny rooms, so-so restaurant, straggly beach and a herd of retirees. If you can afford $100 more per night, you'll discover a world of difference at Le Domaine where, for instance, you get such luxuries as a beautiful secluded beach, expansive manicured grounds, amazing dining, first-class service, large rooms and a big pool. A French hotel, new to the island. We switched from Grand Case and are so glad we did!

NO THANKS.

The pros:
Grand case is decently comfortable
the staff is friendly
and yes, its convenient to have the beach, pool, and restuarant right there.
and its definitely better than staying at some big-name generic hotel chain

BUT
there are so many other, nicer places to stay on the island.
I mean, when you're on St. Martin, you'll definitely want a good, unique experience (meaning, you want the St. Martin experience, not just a generic anywhere-caribbean-island one). you're going to *have* to rent a car anyway, and there are so many beautiful, diverse beaches to explore.

I've been on the island twice, and am plannign my third trip back. I've also travelled to many other caribbean islands and people, my advice is, generally in the caribbean, do NOT opt for beachfront hotels like this one. Beachfront = mosquitos and unbelievably hot. The better option, especially in a place like St. Martin, is a cliff-side, higher-land place. Then yo'ull get beautiful panoramic ocean views, lovely tradewinds, and NO mosquitos.

Although our last stay at G.C.B.C. was in August of 07. We have been at G.C.B.C. the past 3 years and have already booked an even longer vacation stay this year. Why you ask, the answer is simple, pure bliss!!! I was compelled to finally write a review after reading some "not so favorable reviews". I could go on and on about restaurant reviews and "what to see and do" in SXM, but I will only touch upon that in a bit. I really want the reader to get a real idea what G.C.B.C. is all about. If you are looking for a quiet, tranquil setting with a gorgeous backdrop of mountains and tropical foliage and calm turquoise water with two very clean beaches (one small and the other of moderate size), then G.C.B.C. may be the place for you. There is also a pool of moderate size and two boutiques. In addition, the Sunset Cafe Restaurant is located on the G.C.B.C. property and set on the water. The restaurant is seperately owned from G.C.B.C. We have only had lunch there which was good. The staff at G.C.B.C have always been very professional and accommodating. From housekeeping to the staff at the front desk, they all have a smile when they greet you and are very helpful when inquiring about St. Martin in general (special thanks to Kate and Ruth). G.C.B.C. has a more than adequate sports/excursion desk and the guys who run it are very hard working and patient. You can also get a massage on premise. The grounds are kept immaculate with tropical flowers gleeming at every direction. This property is "gated" with security and is very safe! Steve, who is the manager must also be praised for his professionalism and dedication. We have had some very nice conversations at the "Manager's cocktail parties" and have met some very nice people. We have always stayed is the same second story oceanfront condo unit which has an updated beautiful bathroom and a spectacular view of the water which caresses the town of Grand Case. Our unit was always clean. Anytime we needed something, such as a blender , we were always accomodated. G.C.B.C. has approximately 80 units, which really attracted us. We prefer the smaller properties as opposed to the mega 450 room resorts, which from my experience you do NOT get the personal attention, not to mention they could be very noisy. We love G.C.B.C. It is our little piece of paradise.....~~~ We have been all over the Caribbean and finally found a place that we truly love and are treated like "family". This special place is The Grand Case Beach Club.. We will see you soon...... M&M

A few things: Restaurants in Grand Case: We loves Spicys. The owners (husband and wife) are wonderful. We ate there twice. You must have their homemade icecream !! Spiga, great italian food. L' Auberge, very nice, great duck and lamb. Chez Martine, excellent lobster.

Some of our favorite beaches: Orient (could be a bit rough-good waves), Mullet bay, good snorkeling, Baie Rouge, Cupecoy, cool looking red rock cliffs/paths (a bit rough). Many beaches.. Go explore!!

Adventure: go fly the zip lines in Pic Paradise.

Shopping: Go to Marigot, stay away from crowded Philipsburg.

The best way to see the island is to rent a car... We never had a problem, but make sure you don't leave valuables in the car. Like anywhere else there is crime. Use commom sense and you will have a great vacation!!!

To our friends/staff at the G.C.B.C. We will see you soon !!!
M&M from (Long Island, NY)