ST MARTIN | ST MAARTEN after HURRICANE IRMA: Update December 2018!

In September 2017, St Martin/St Maarten was hit with a devastating Hurricane name Irma. So much of the island was damaged and it has taken a lot of time for it to recover, but the people here are strong and ready to rebuild to an even better place to be. Here is my update as of December 2018.
01:27 - Airport (Since uploading this the airport has re-opened it's arrival area!)
02:04 - Downtown Maho
03:45 - Terres Basses
04:06 - Baie Rouge Beach
06:14 - Marigot
07:17 - Friar's Bay and Happy Bay
08:55 - Grand Case
09:27 - Anse Marcel
09:59 - Orient Bay | Orient Beach
11:38 - Oyster Pond | Guana Bay
12:14 - Philipsburg | Cruise Dock
12:50 - Simpson Bay
Intro Created by Bert Brown - www.generatingm...
Background Music by Joshua Hendricks Music ( / joshuahendricksmusic )
Theme song written and performed by Red Abbott ( / redabbott )
Phil Phriday - www.philphriday...
#sintmaarten #hurricaneirma #saintmartin
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Watch some of my drone videos: "Drone Video over Terres Basses, St. Martin"
• Drone Video over Terre...
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[@yahkiemahberry1652]

Hi from a Saint-Martin girl, just want to say thanks for reassuring tourists and for encouraging them to come. My island is not back 100% yet but will be. Thank you so much!

[@philphriday]

Thank you for watching and your kind words! It's an exciting time to visit the island and watch it develop into something new.

[@Michelle30024]

How wheelchair friendly are the hotels at Moho?

[@yahkiemahberry1652]

They are very wheelchair friendly, I've been to most of them and you won't have any problem getting around. For more precise information I would advise you to call first before booking.

[@anthonytorre2905]

Yahkiemah Berry How is the island doing now?

[@anthonytorre2905]

Yahkiemah Berry Will be visiting august 8th this summer!

[@benjaminbell9565]

My home!!!! update: The airport is now functioning but not at 100%. We are resilient and we will return as the gem of the Caribbean!! Thanks for your update, Phil.

[@philphriday]

Benjamin Bell thanks for watching and for the update!

[@maureenbaker9230]

Hey, one of our young and hardworking politicians. Not forgetting, a Sr. Borgia parent.🤗

[@westwindsailer]

cant wait to come back to your great island.

[@sistersandcat]

So nice to see an update. I’m from the Dutch side but moved to Belgium after Irma and haven’t been back since October 2017. I miss my home so much 💔

[@philphriday]

I hope you get back soon! Thanks for watching!

[@deidrafehr3011]

Phil, thank you so much for the updates and video. We have been going there since 2002 and were unable to go last January due to the devastation, etc. We are soooo looking forward to going back in a few weeks.

[@philphriday]

I love hearing you will be going back! I hope you have the best time. Thanks for watching!

[@janetboris3601]

Thanks for sharing . Now I know to check u tube before I travel . I just got home after 4 nights in St. Martin.id like to add Stayed at an all inclusive resort.still with a lot to do since hurricane. Catamaran was a nice way to spend a few Hours.if you're a plane fan, its there. Won some at the casino.Last I recommend take 2 local busses to the bird farm.bird farm.

[@charmainferguson8023]

Thank you for the information on St Maarten/Martin. I am traveling in August 2019 with family and was a little doubtful because of Hurricane Irma, but your video put my mind at ease. I am looking forward to having fun and exploring the island.

[@philphriday]

Charmain Ferguson I love hearing this. I hope you have a wonderful time! Thanks for watching.

[@philphriday]

@ladywharton Yeah, they are having an unusually dry season. Doesn't take too much rain to get it all back. So hopefully they will get the much-needed rain soon...just not during anyone's vacation! ;)

[@richardgerrym2121]

Philipsburg’s cruise ship facilities can handle up to 6 ships at a time. In November, there was one 2-day block that hosted 11 cruise ships, with 25,000 passengers and associated tourist travel day trips! Having that much tourism infrastructure in place so quickly is an incredible post-Irma accomplishment! SXM Strong!

[@philphriday]

Richard Gerry M thanks for sharing this information!

[@JoaoAmadoTV]

recently we had 7 ships, one was on anchor

[@philphriday]

Wow! I can't imagine what the island looked like on that day!

[@AugustPDX]

My family went January 2018 (4-ish) months after the hurricane and it was so sad to see the destruction caused, but even that quickly after the hurricane there was still so much to do and see. Some people were devastated, just talking to them and hearing what they experienced, but there was also so much hope and determination within those same people. That was my second time there and it was an experience I'll never forget. I learned way more than my first time and saw the entirety of the island and I hope and plan to come back more!

[@philphriday]

August T I love this! Thanks for sharing. I have had very similar experiences. Hope you make it back soon!

[@gaellowe2222]

Thanks for sharing! We are looking forward to going back to the beautiful island of St Maarten/St Martin. Great to see how much work they have done!

[@philphriday]

Happy to hear you will be returning. They are working so hard and doing a great job!

[@kareamrampersad3774]

Thanks again for your support and help, much respect Phil. You are a SXM man bro one!!

[@philphriday]

Best. compliment. ever. Thanks so much!

[@sugetoosty1685]

We went there in May and we loved it...we didn't even care about the devastation- the people were wonderful, the water was magical and clear- one of my favorite places on earth!

[@tomsummers1137]

I was on one of those catamarans in Simpson Bay, when you produced this. We came to Simpson to avail ourselves of the marine supplies there, on our voyage from Trinidad to USVI, with multiple stops in between. At night one can see the blacked out places that have suffered storm damage and have yet to open. However there is much more that IS open and coming back to life. Moreover, i have found the Dutch side to be very resilient. Notice that most of the power lines are underground, which makes recovery from storms occur much more rapidly. Whether you come by sea or air, St Marten is a joy to visit. Thanks, Phil. I will share this.

[@philphriday]

Thanks for sharing! So funny that you spotted yourself in the area at the same time. I agree with you about the Dutch side coming back quicker! I appreciate you sharing my video and thank you for watching!

[@hugogumbs8335]

Phil, ST Martin is my native Island, and I go back often to visit with my family. Thank you for sharing that awesome video and explanation of the transformation of the Island following the devastation from hurricane IRMA. I hope your excellent video will encourage and give assurance to thousands of tourist to vacation in ST Martin / ST Maarten.

[@philphriday]

Thank you for watching. I appreciate the comments. I made this video in hopes to provide information which will allow people to decide if they are ready to return. I believe they will be!

[@stephaniegomes7777]

Thank you so much for the freakin perfect update. We’ve gone every year and are planning a return soon. Very thorough and exactly what I am looking for...

[@philphriday]

So happy to hear this! It means so much to me. Hope you have a wonderful time!

[@DavidWilson-ps8gx]

Phil, first THANK YOU for the continued updates. My wife and I are off to St. Martin/Maarten in 2 days with our whole family and your October review of the Island has reassured us that combining our vacation time with volunteering is the best thing we can do to assist with the ongoing recovery efforts. We are avid travellers to St Maarten and consider it our home away from home. Our volunteer time will be spent on two fronts my wife will be volunteering with an after school reading program and I will be volunteering with my efforts coaching soccer. Please keep the VLOGs coming. We will post our comment on our experience while on the Island for those following your VLOG, since we will be there for 2 months. Thank you Again, Volunteering Canadians

[@philphriday]

Wow! What an amazing thing you both do. I am so happy you shared this with me. I appreciate the kind words about my video and am so happy to hear I helped you in finding comfort to return. Have the best time and please keep me updated with your experiences.

[@lorianehodge3377]

Thank you so much for sharing, I’m a local St Martiner & this video showed me so much more than what I saw during the summer. However the locals were pretty saddened by the removal of the restaurant in Terre Basse seeing it was one of the few local ones around.. As bad as Irma was it attracted alot of foreign investors (although the beaches are public) & seeing the restaurant wasnt there legally well.. you know. You can also access Friar’s Bay beach through a paved road via Cripple Gate’s entrance after Marigot. Thank you for shedding light on our little rock regardless of its current state, I hope you enjoyed your stay! 🇸🇽❤️ I was already homesick but this video increased it by 10, so sad yet happy to watch this during winter😅

[@jamiespriggs8031]

Thanks for the video and kind messages Phil! Everyone that experienced Irma and is living through the aftermath appreciates the sentiments that you bring to the world. Hope to see you in SXM!

[@philphriday]

Jamie Spriggs thank you for the comment. It really means a lot to hear the nice response. Hope to see you there as well!

[@crazymeier]

Thank u for the update.. I love this place

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@jakesstapelberg4573]

Hi Phil thanks for taking the time to post this I will be traveling to St Maarten in April with the family and was not to sure what to expect after hurricane Irma . Your post have put my mind at ease and we are now looking forward going to St Maarten. Thanks again for your post.

[@philphriday]

Jakes Stapelberg this is the best comment I can get. I’m so happy to hear I have given you the information you have been looking for. Have an absolutely amazing time in April! I might actually be back around that same time. Thanks for watching and letting me know your thoughts.

[@RB-ug2zd]

The best St Maarten update I have seen ever! Love the time stamps....

[@philphriday]

I wish I had said thank you 4 years ago...but I missed this comment....so now...Thank you.

[@staciepatel2536]

My husband and I were in St. Martin/St. Marteen the first week in December on a cruise. We were very pleased with how St. Martin/St. Marteen have come back we got to go back to Orient beach and they are really improving it. we were sad to see that Club orient was no longer there thanks for letting us know they did try and it is very sad that they could not come back. Will love to see what else will come up in its place. Thanks for the review of St. Martin/St. Marteen. Very good

[@philphriday]

The news about Club Orient was so sad. I believe something will replace it. I'm happy to hear you had a wonderful time on the island. Thanks for watching!

[@tiffanydiaz791]

Things are looking even better now. My family was just there last week. A big thanks to Carmeletta our wonderful, friendly ,beautiful driver ! Orient beach is looking real good and a quick drive over to have some great food at grand case. The kids loved the beach there too. Happy to see recovery. We Love this island, it's wonderful residents and friendly vibe!

[@philphriday]

Tiffany Diaz thanks for watching and providing some updates!

[@17TrillSeeker]

As a born a raised native of the island of st. Maarten 🇸🇽 dutch side we are very resilient ppl we are bouncing back, I work at the airport we are slowly building back its a work in progress we enjoy the publicity Phil thank you

[@philphriday]

Thank you for all the hard work on the airport. Even while it was down, I found all the workers to have positive spirits and I didn't notice any delay in service. Thanks for watching!

[@antoinebyrd9278]

Excellent. Headed back in July. Looking forward to getting some breakfast at Zee Best!!

[@philphriday]

Antoine Byrd they don’t call it Zee Best for nothing! So good.

[@sugetoosty1685]

I just fell in love with this island! Our highlights were our guide: Dom, and singer, "Shine"!!

[@chilibaldrr840]

Great update, the island looks fantastic, we have been there 9 times since 2001. Our family booked a trip to Sonesta Maho for March 21, so excited to go back to this completely renovated hotel. All the beaches look amazing, will be renting a car and cruising around the island and checking out all the beaches during the day and the restaurants and nightlife in the evening. Again, great review.

[@philphriday]

Thanks so much! Always happy to hear people going back. Let me know if you find any hidden gems!

[@gyitardave1505]

Thanks Phil , St Martin is our favorite place in the Carribean. We will be going back.

[@philphriday]

Have you been back in the past 4 years?

[@otakumultifandom]

I really enjoyed this video, the drone shots of the entire place is so beautiful. I never realized how much I loved and missed Saint-Martin itself until I left to NY.

[@philphriday]

Otaku multifandom thank you so much for watching! It’s such a special place. Hope you can get back soon!

[@kiadenisesanders]

My favorite island ~ SXM

[@melissasmith8963]

Awesome job updating people on St Maarten/ St Martin! Some of my family is visiting there right now and so glad to be back!! I hope the french side gets more help and money soon!

[@philphriday]

Melissa Smith thank you! Happy to hear about people returning. It’s a process but they are doing great.

[@josiebolianatz2739]

I just spent two weeks there in December. It was my first time saying on the island and lots to see and do in terms of restaurants and water activities. Seeing all the work the people are doing and have done was great! Felt very safe across the island...we had a car and drove around all over. Had great food and overall good time!

[@philphriday]

This is the best news to hear. It helps me know that I am not the only one who felt this way while on the island. Thanks so much for letting me know and for watching my video!

[@annualtravellers]

I visited here for 8 hours on my cruise back in Feb 18, and fell in love with this island instantly 😍 it is improving every day & it's amazing how different it looks. One day i will go back to this beautiful island I just wish we could fly direct from the uk.

[@philphriday]

Justine James I’m happy to hear you enjoyed the island. Hope you make it back soon. Thanks for watching!

[@gmak3y889]

Thank you for your positive comments on our Island. Hope to see you soon

[@SkywatcherSandra]

Loved going to this gem of an island. The people there make it absotively awesome. Super friendly and nice. Glad to know that things are going forward for the island. I appreciate your time and effort and videos. I hope ev1 on the island has had some assistance in the reboot and fix up and not a select few. HUGS and blessings for ALL. HUGS from NY State

[@philphriday]

Sandra Conklin thank you for your warm and caring comment. I appreciate you watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@SkywatcherSandra]

New about a month KZbinr here. New subscriber 2

[@arjovandenberg4644]

Hi Phil, Arjo from the Netherlands here. Thanks for you enthousiastic update. Looking forward to our visit to SXM and our family and friends for the first time since Irma in three weeks. From your video enough inspiration to do some more exploring on the Island!

[@davidkleinvormdrift4826]

Hi Arjo, I guess you are about to go to Sint Maarten in a week or so. I'm a sustainable concept designer trying to get a project of the ground concerning another Caribbean island, Puerto Rico. They are having a lot of trouble rebuilding the island, while Sint Maarten appears to do so well. However, in Phil's video I don't see much about sustainability. Looking at renewable energy, etc. I realize that you are just there to enjoy your Holiday, but could I ask you to look out with half an eye for signs of attention for sustainability measures? Rebuilding the island with new hurricane proof building regulations is already a great step forward, but how about solar panels, windmills, circularity, etc.? If I'm asking too much: no worries. Just enjoy your trip. David Klein

[@simonbland2315]

Club Orient may be closed, but Club O Beach is open as usual, with chair rentals, the Perch Lite bar for food and drinks and free parking, this has been that way since November 2017

[@kemaralleyne4300]

Simon Bland m7

[@myriamhaar2753]

oh yes, but the decision to close down the operation and not rebuild made public only recently. I learned of it in February. So those guys won't be able to continue their activities on the beach. But the beach is public so it really doesn't matter: it will remain the naked beach that it has always been..

[@bush52]

Phil, Many thanks for the update! Will be stopping there on a cruise in early April and it is good to hear that the cruise port area is fully in swing.

[@islanddreamsrealty7696]

good job on this report, thanks! Accurate. Airport has made further progress as well now (April 2019) they are receiving in the terminal now.

[@islanddreamsrealty7696]

actually, great job

[@philphriday]

M M thank you so much for the kind words and for the update! I’ll be back in May and look forward to experiencing the improved airport experience. Thanks again!

[@edwardwerthner7717]

Phil thx for a great video. I was there when Irma hit n lost my boat in Cole bay. I did notice that the water seems to have become cleaner, clearer Than before Irma. Being a sailor n living there in 2007-08 I often spoke with sailors n we all agreed, St Martin is the best place in the Caribbean . I’ll be back n again thx

[@philphriday]

So happy to hear you enjoyed the video! I was amazed at how clear the water was. Glad to hear you will be going back! Thanks for watching.

[@Sardonyxx777]

Home..... Love the footage, well done! I can watch this all day from this wintery place I live now! Many thanks for sharing and for making this video! Can't wait to see more and to go back home!

[@philphriday]

Odilde Foeken thank you for watching! I’m hoping to go there again sometime soon to continue updating. Hope you get to revisit the island soon!

[@alphagirl1940]

Great job as usual Phil!! Thanks so much for this fantastic update!!

[@vanessamagnien4621]

Thank you Phil for your making a nod to sxm... I live there for 20 years and I love the island

[@philphriday]

Vanessa Magnien thanks for watching!

[@alinegumbs992]

Thank you Phil, i am a resident of dutch St. Maarten. Thank you for this positive Video, showing our progress. Awesome Video, i will share

[@ianbrown8]

killer video! very detailed and honest of being knowledgable of Sint Martin/St. Maarten

[@2091Ted]

Thanks for a great update on a great island! So happy to see SXM making a strong comeback!

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@CA3SAR911]

Great job man, Beautiful video! THANK YOU!

[@philphriday]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@valeriesiarras8741]

Thanks for this visit!! I was there for the hurricane and I'm very happy sxm is doing better!! Plan to come back soon ❤️

[@philphriday]

Happy to hear that! Been going a few times a year for the past 4 years and have really felt like it's home away from home. Thanks for watching!

[@lorainethomas9379]

I just love your videos. Thank you so much for what you are doing. Yes we are almost back and better. Come see us again.

[@philphriday]

This means so much to me. Thank you for watching! I have really loved seeing the island get back on it's feet.

[@henrykalechman7878]

Great Video Phil!!! I still need to make it out to friars beach but great shots and happy you made it to hole in the wall and if you like that joint you should pass by lagoonies or dinghy dock, both having a great people and vibes there!

[@philphriday]

Hank M4A2EA I love Lagoonies and Dinghy Dock! I’ll have to include them in the next one! Thanks for watching.

[@brinn8539]

Our favorite island we've been going to SXM since 1985 love it and the great PEOPLE. Phil you missed the Sunset Beach Bar and the great time watching the planes land overhead! Good job otherwise.

[@philphriday]

I missed MANY things which is what makes this island so special. I actually just landed on the island today. I have 24 days ahead of me. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@guitarforumdude]

Thanks for the update! I've been to St. Martin at least 6 times, pre- Irma. I'm due for a return trip.

[@philphriday]

guitarforumdude thanks for watching. Hope you make it back soon!

[@chrisbertinelli3694]

Phil do u remember the pirate sailboat located on Simpson bay that shuttled u just off the shore by the Royal palms . The guys were from Boston who owned the boat. They served drinks and had good music. I was there a couple of days before the hurricane. We left on Sat Sept 3rd and Storm was wed Sept 6.

[@philphriday]

I have never been on that boat! Sounds like a blast. Happy to hear you got off the island just in time!

[@chrisbertinelli3694]

Thx for replying Phil have a good day buddy

[@chrisbertinelli3694]

IMG_0866.jpeg

[@myriamhaar2753]

the pirate sailboat in the Simpson Bay Lagoon was lost during Irma. Probably still to be seen near the airport.

[@K9Trixx]

Thanks for this great video👍 Subscribed.

[@philphriday]

Ky Sa thank you!

[@dineshmoonan]

Phil, it seems as though you love St Maarten just as much as i do. Sooo love it

[@philphriday]

It's an amazing place! Thanks for watching.

[@6gwilliams]

Thanks. I have been going to SXM since I first bought at Pelican/SBR back in 1990. I was there in May and September 2018 and had a great time all over the island. It is really coming back. FYI Anse Marcel is going to be an all-inclusive luxury resort owned by Apple Travel. Cheers

[@philphriday]

Very interesting! Thanks for the information. I can't wait to see it develop.

[@brettbirdguy]

I can't thank you enough, for your support, of personally my favorite place in the world... 11 years ago, I went on a trip to St. Martin / Saint Maarten... My mother's cousin invited my mom, my sister, and I to stay with her, in her Timeshare at The Whyndm Sapphire Beach Club & Resort... 11 years ago they did not have the ability to pull the plain right up to the terminal. So we were blessed with the most enjoyable experience, being able to disembark off the plain, right into the tropical air, on the tarmac, then walking to the airport... (as you experienced) for me this was such a unique opportunity to have had. The moment I stepped on to the ground. A since of finally being home came over me. I had a instant love affair with the island... While staying on the island enjoying everything you talked about.. However, you mentioned you travel alone.. For us it was quite the opposite. During week 2 & 3 (the second & third weeks of January starting on a Saturday, and going to the following Saturday etc...) 8 of our relatives, and 2 good family friends had 5 units they were using some in at The Sapphire, and some elsewhere, & a sixth vacant unit that our family friends had purchased a long time back & had upgraded a few years prior. While hanging out with with my family in a far away country on a tropical island I said outloud. I really would love to do this every year.. The family friend chimed in, I have a extra timeshare, you want to buy it for a steal... I announced quite quickly YES! & the deal went through. The next 10 Year's every January was my time to go home (home away from home), and recharge myself in the sun, surrounded by the Caribbean.. my unit is at the Sapphire, the staff there has become family. To walk in after being gone a year & be greeted by so many familiar faces saying Hey Brett is it that time of the year again it's so nice to see you followed by hugs and offers of cold rum punch... I wouldn't change it for the world! Last year was deviating.. Irma closed down my home. I was unable to go & 2018 just hasn't felt as alive inside. So I am desperately awaiting my 2019 trip coming up on week 3... so again thank you for your kind loving words on a island that is very near & dear to not only my heart... but my families heart's... (turns out that my great aunt Jeannie nearly 20 Year's ago was the first in the family to buy on the island & slowly we all have followed her brilliant investment idea with our own purchases) Sincerely: Brett. The Bird Guy!

[@philphriday]

Thank you so much for your lovely story, Brett! I have only been going to the island for the past 4 years and could see myself going every year for the rest of my life. Happy to hear you will be going back! I really appreciate your comment and thank you for watching.

[@crunchers9]

I agree that it's ready for visitors, but, as of last week, there is still a good amount of damage and repair work being done, so make sure your room doesn't face the construction. Also, in Simpson Bay at least, walking around is not easy. No sidewalks and some areas get flooded after the rain. Roxi Beach club was open but word is it is very expensive.

[@cynthiadazevedo2462]

Thanks so much for the update!!! Great content and spectacular imagery. Love how you made a loop around the island.

[@philphriday]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@jillpratt2447]

Phil, that was a great update!! We have been waiting for one ! We aren’t going this winter but have our reservations confirmed for next winter in Orient Beach! We miss this fantastic island....unique among the Caribbean Islands...well, I think so! Thanks for your video!!! Merry Christmas,

[@philphriday]

Jill Pratt Merry Christmas to you as well! Thanks for watching and I’m happy to hear you will be returning.

[@JoshuaSchultz]

Thanks for the update. This video was very helpful and I will be watching this again and maybe multiple times. We're headed there this spring 2019.

[@philphriday]

So happy to hear you found it helpful! Have a great time in the spring!

[@loekiemorales]

I live on SXM. This video is very well done!

[@philphriday]

L Morales thank you so much. This comment means a bit more knowing it’s coming directly from the island. ☺️

[@DezRosswess]

I've made 8 trips there, not so much into the plane thing at maho beach now but will be going back in 2019. Good to see Simpson bay looking ready had many a sing at that toppers bar!

[@philphriday]

Dez Rosswess I’ve sung a few too many songs at Topper’s as well! 🤪

[@cpalazzo3]

Was thinking of going to Westin Dawn Beach Club in Dec of 2019.They tell me that the casino, spa and hotel restaurants are not going to be ready when I get there. Do you know if it is in good enough shape to enjoy our stay??? Any information would be soooo appreciated. Cathy from NY

[@TheClarelynch]

Stopping at St Maarten on April 17, 2019 from our cruise. Family of 4, 2 teenage boys. We hate crowded cruise beaches but like having amenities. Thinking Mullet Bay.. looks like good snorkeling and maybe some cliff jumping.??? Any other suggestions?

[@oliver4721]

Clare Lynch check out rhino riders! It’s a jet ski/ small boat tour you can take. You stop off at some really pretty beaches as well as spots to snorkel with lots of pretty, and big fish!

[@wachetout]

Thank you going there in may ....appreciate the information ....keep you in touch

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching!

[@GeorgeParas]

I heard if you ever wanted to Go to St Maarten but couldn't afford it This is the perfect time to take advantage on how affordable it is now while they rebuild and also help out the island got back on its feet

[@philphriday]

Absolutely! And with how fast they are recovering, those lower prices aren't going to last too long. It's a great time to see it.

[@heatherpearson1582]

Just back from sailing around St Martin and the beaches are cleaned up from seaweed. An island up and running!

[@philphriday]

heather pearson wow! That must have been beautiful. Thanks for the update!

[@andersongane3644]

Phil, Thank you so much for your video Saint-Martin is my home island where I was born in raise on the French-side living in France now for 15 years now I was devastated after IRMA having lived through hurricane LUIS in 1995 I witness first hand how hard and how long it took us to get back on our feet and couldn't imagine after IRMA how long it would take. Before IRMA nobody in France knew my island I always had to show them on a map where it was but Since IRMA my paradise island got the spotlight for the devastation off course but was also known for the bad side meaning drugs and violence and people believed here in FRANCE that my island had only 2 towns Sandy ground or Quartier d'orlean I'm so happy that you've shown a good honest global look french & Dutch sides of what I knew and remembered I'm planning to go this summer and show my kids what is the real Saint-Martin my home really got emotional when I saw my hometown beach Frias Bay beach where I use to go as a kid with my father gave me goosebumps to see Kali's bar up and running and also happy bay still remained natural once again I thank you for your videos and your reviews god bless Merci !!

[@philphriday]

anderson GANE what a wonderful comment! I thank you so much for sharing this with me. Happy I was able to do you proud. Thanks so much for watching and I hope you have a great time in your next visit home.

[@LlamaTityful]

As of December, Pavilions have been dismantled and operations have been moved back into the airport building as work continues on other parts of the building.

[@paulkralovec7407]

Phil, thanks so much for sharing. This video was very well done. We are going to Oyster Bay this year and were curious of how it would look from our last visit. This showed parts of the island I have not been to and i look forward to checking them out. Thanks again!

[@philphriday]

Hey Paul! Thanks so much. I really appreciate the comment. Happy to hear you are going to explore the island. Hope you have a wonderful time.

[@kimetheridge7694]

Thank you so much for this video. I was also there in October. Beautiful island with beautiful people. One thing to note- the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino is schedule to open in the late Fall ( I believe).

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching! And for the awesome information! I know a lot of people are looking for those kinds of details.

[@Bambysbeautylabcom]

Love this video. Thank you. Marigot is my fav place in the world.

[@philphriday]

Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!

[@julienneschaeffer4293]

Will be stopping off for just one day in March. I'm hoping to plan a longer vacation there some time soon. Thank you for the video.

[@philphriday]

Julienne Schaeffer thanks for watching!

[@b.d.anderson4430]

Great to see that Bikini Beach has re-opened. Thank you for the excellent update.

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@jfarmeribm]

We were in St. Martin in December, getting better all the time. Back in May for 3 weeks.

[@philphriday]

John Farmer Happy to hear you spent time and enjoyed yourself. I’m hoping to get back in May as well! Thanks for watching.

[@blakstar8219]

My home! Haven't been back since 2016 but goin back this year...miss my home

[@philphriday]

Nkrumah Whit glad to hear you are returning home! Thanks for watching!

[@64davrecon]

What happened with La Samana? A few years ago I worked for a winter on the St Martins and in my time off went absolutely Everywhere. I really loved and miss that whole place!

[@philphriday]

La Samanna is back and as beautiful as ever. Thanks for watching!

[@chrisandreia1000]

Great video thank you so much will be there this September

[@philphriday]

MAKE UP FANTASY thanks for watching! Hope you have a wonderful time in September.

[@ant4man2]

Phil, This presentation was phenomenal...... We love this Island. We always visit on August Monday. However this year Im going to explore another destination. The place we stay is not ready to receive guests at this time. I have "Liked" this Video and have Subscribed to your Channel. Please keep up the good work. We will visit our favorite Island in 2020. Keep up the good work.

[@philphriday]

ant4man2 thanks so much for your positive comments. I appreciate it very much. I’m excited to hear you will be returning again.

[@jobee1]

Great video and a lot of information with fantastic video footage. Thanks, I’m a new subscriber. Loved your sunglasses, can I ask what brand they are?

[@philphriday]

Karen B thanks so much for watching! The glasses are from a company called Blenders Eyewear! I have a few different pairs from them and I love them. Here’s a link: fbuy.me/lOU0g

[@bobconnor6164]

Thanks for the great video. It was sad to see what happened from hurricane Irma. Going back to maho bay in April. Do you think it will be up and running by then?

[@philphriday]

Bob Connor Absolytely. There is already so much going on in Maho. Thanks for watching!

[@mahdodeh3593]

thanks alot fot this video ...i love this l islans

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching! So happy you enjoyed it.

[@incred1968]

Kakao Beach is open with an excellent restaurant. It is in the same location as the old Waikiki beach. December 2018

[@terryreaves5127]

Nice update thank you

[@philphriday]

Terry Reaves thanks for watching!

[@drrichardbiscegliedncnsdd1944]

How is Divi Little bay beach resort...now..after the hurricane and what your opinion in general about it,,,Thanks !

[@philphriday]

I don't know much about Divi Little Bay Beach resort. I spend most of my time in Simpson Bay and on the French side, but I am hoping to explore more next month! I have always heard great things about it.

[@bobconnor6164]

Going in April and can’t wait to see it.

[@2FunWoolyboogers]

Philphriday, Thanks for both of your updates. Great commentary and video from all angles. We have been to SXM 5 times, but none since Irma. We are coming for a day on a Cruise because we were somewhat apprehensive about travel and places to stay and eat goodies. We feel a lot more confident now with your updates. We will be back for a week at Carnival time. Spent time at Club O on two separate occasions so we are disappointed with all the legal stuff going on there, but Cedric has the beach ready with Chairs and umbrellas for all who visit. Food is available, although a rather small selection. Enough for a day trip. The only "okay" place for nudity is the south area of Orient bay where Club O was located before. It isn't hard to tell the line of demarcation. As long as everyone follows the rules it is a great place to enjoy a beautiful beach and friendly folks. Thanks again for your efforts and sharing. Marty and Phyllis

[@philphriday]

Martyn Woleben I am so happy to hear you are returning. Thank you so much for watching and sharing your thoughts. Hope you have a wonderful time.

[@johnkokinis2313]

Good video. I appreciate the info. Hoping to get back to St. Martin soon.

[@philphriday]

Thank you! I hope you get back soon, too!

[@maureenbaker9230]

Phil, please do not say 'private beach', as we have absolutely NO private beaches on St. Maarten/St. Martin. All beaches are public beaches. Having no amenities, does not make a beach private. Just a little heads-up from a 'local girl'. #SXMStrong🇸🇽

[@philphriday]

Maureen Baker Hey, thanks for watching. I am well aware of the “no private” beaches and mention that it “feels private.” But I appreciate the awareness and I will be sure to make that clear in any future videos.

[@maureenbaker9230]

Phil, you're most welcome. I watch your videos all the time. By now you should feel local😊. Hurry back and be sure to come during Carnival (April/May) this time. SXM🇸🇽 loves you❤

[@philphriday]

Aww thank you! I would love to come during that time! I'll see what I can do! :)

[@myriamhaar2753]

there are indeed no private beaches on the French side, but that law doesn't apply on the Dutch side though.

[@maureenbaker9230]

@@myriamhaar2753, I would like to know where you got you info from, as you were misinformed. Having been born and raised in SXM (1970's), I know that I have my facts correct. It is stipulated by law, that ALL beaches are 'Public Beaches'. If one purchases beachfront property, public access MUST be provided to the beache(s). Especially if said access point, is the one that have always been used. There have been many visitors, who purchased beachfront property and blocked off all access. These cases were taken to court and the property owners lost EVERYTIME!

[@coolvybe77]

Loved your video, Thanks again for the update

[@philphriday]

Thanks for watching!

[@rudegertgertrude8512]

Just found your channel and really like the content! Thank you!

[@philphriday]

Betty Foolio thank you for watching! Glad you enjoy it.

[@dawnlewis1973]

Hi Phil I love the pics and the area you filmed can't wait to go in Jly2019 I'm their!!!

[@philphriday]

Dawn Lewis Happy to hear you have plans to go! Thanks for watching.

[@SpeedNoodles]

I loved the information in this video. I did find the background music extremely distracting. I often tried to turn the volume up to hear you, but then it obviously just turned the music up and I was frustrated. But kudos on some great information that I've never seen anywhere else!

[@philphriday]

Pascale Smith thank you for the comment. It’s always tough to get the levels just right for everyone since we all use different systems. This is the first comment I have received about it and will absolutely take it into consideration for the future. Thanks for the heads up!

[@myriamhaar2753]

Thank you for this update. I'm happy to see the changes everywhere. We lived on Orient Beach for 12 years, we left in June of last year so it is amazing to see the reconstruction on-going there. Sad that Club Orient will not reopen, I used to work there, but I guess this was bound to happen sooner or later. The airport has received the necessary funds to rebuild it and they should be busy as we speak. I also understand that the arrival hall has been reopened. Did you arrive through it or through tents?

[@debrasalt3598]

Thanks for the positive comments everyone, it means a lot to some of us, Merci!

[@BobHA2]

Great. Glad to hear that! Thanks

[@JohnPicard]

Great video! Thank you.

[@bronxbomma718]

Went in September. Still rebuilding but still beautiful.

[@philphriday]

Sun Singh glad to hear you went and enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@mmcpa]

It's been a while but am planning a late spring/early summer trip down. Considering Atrium or Simpson Bay Resort (used to stay at Royal Palm) since Royal Palm not quite there yet. If another nice resort with beach maybe closer to Philipsburg, what would you currently suggest?

[@carolslomer843]

Thanks Phil!! Heading there for 2 weeks in March! So wonderful to see the island rebuilding and coming back to it's original splendor! Great job with the video, did you happen to see how things are going at the Royal Palm in Simpson bay? Thks so much

[@philphriday]

From what I can tell things are doing well! Their facebook page has a lot of activity too, which is always a good sign.

[@dianabrouwer9179]

it's still closed and no work is being done at the moment

[@caribbeanbell8520]

Indeed,it is still closed.

[@myriamhaar2753]

@@philphriday the place is closed and the renovations are extremely slow.

[@richardgerrym2121]

Club Orient’s nude beach is still operating, complete with chair & umbrella rentals, free parking, and bar/restaurant “Perch Lite”, all operated by former employees of the Club Orient Resort. The resort has not been able to reopen because of slow payments from insurance companies and various legal issues, but people are hopeful that it will eventually reopen.

[@philphriday]

Thanks for the info!