Thanks for the update Kerry. It looks as if it will be a while before (a couple of years) St. Martin will be up and running as it was before Irma. Patience will be necessary for even a partial return. But the people who live there are optimistic and seem to be desirous to do it. And this is good.

We went in June and will go back next June. Had a good trip and got to spend some money where people need it. Plan to do the same next year.

What the people need is tourist $$$$. The Island is about 95% dependent on tourism. Go now when they need you the most.

Orient Beach is still beautiful, there are chairs and umbrellas at Club O (thank you Cedrick and company), there are plenty of restaurants and places to stay. There is nothing not to enjoy about a trip back. Plus the conversion rate is 1.17 E to one dollar. That is the lowest I have seen it since we started going in 2003.

If you haven't already, read my June, 2018 report which is a sticky at the top of this page.

Excellent, well made video. Thanks for the link, Kerry. Some very interesting interviews - the French shopkeeper who said she wasn't seeing cruise ship people (I've read that the cruise lines were telling passengers not to visit the French side). The young man who just wanted to work - it seems there should be plenty available. The Sandy Ground resident bemoaning his area's unsafe reputation.

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"But then I think about the good times, down in the Caribbean sunshine..." (J.B.)

I would like to talk to someone about the island and what to expect as we are going on Friday. Please e-mail m e if you have time andybj5679@aol.com

Have you read my report from June, 2017? It is mostly about Orient Beach, as that is what I am familiar with. Also, DeputyDog wrote a report based on his recent trip.

Please read those missives, and if you have questions, I will be glad to answer them. I will send you an email.