A Trinational Honeymoon – Josh & Whitneys Newlywed St Maarten Trip
Only just before they arrived on St. Maarten, Josh and Whitney had exchanged their vows in their home state of Virginia. Their visit to sun, sea and beach paradise St. Maarten was their well deserved honeymoon holidays. We explore their route together for future honeymooner reference because, as Whitney states it “I don’t think there is a better destination for a honeymoon – things to do galore and laid back when you choose to.” She especially advises early fall as best time to visit everything is open but more relaxed compared to winter.
Back in Virginia, Josh works as a real estate insurance expert, and Whitney as a teacher. It was their first time on island, coming on their path by coincidence after a recommendation. Their stay at Sea Palace at Philipsburg’s Walter Plantz square appeared a great base of operations to explore “town”, as locals like to call it.
They found a great tropical hangout at Marley’s, a brand new pub meets restaurant at the famed Philipsburg boardwalk. “St. Maarten might not have a “Margaritaville” of its own, but the lovely owners of Marleys do organize special Jimmy Buffett evenings. A great moment for Whitney and me to explore shopping haven Philipsburg for some true tropical shirts in memory of Buffett – Rima’s around the corner already had exactly what we needed!” says Josh. It is one of the evenings the normally sport centered screens of Marleys broadcast concerts of the late Buffett instead of (American) football, golf or Formula 1.
Flacos was another recommendation by the newlyweds from the Old Dominion State. “An easy, “Go Where The Locals Go” discovery, right by us in the authentic Down Street area of Philipsburg.” was Josh’ experience.
Their Philipsburg fun did not prevent the couple from taking time for outings over the binational island, and even to neighboring Anguilla.
“The zipline was a great experience – not sure if I liked the thrill or the view better!” laughs teacher Whitney, recalling the adrenaline rush.
Though the honeymooners do not come across as tired from it, the fact that they touched base on British Anguilla too, with a ferry from French side Marigot, makes their trip a triple nation one. “Driving on the left on Anguilla suddenly is a bit funny, but you get used to it” smiles Josh.
If any further advice to future honeymooners on island, it is to visit Marleys and try to decipher the secret code on their wall. But Whitney guarantees it is the more difficult as the owners and atmosphere will distract you evening after evening, making you realize when you arrive back in the hotel room that you still not know what the gibberish on the sign means.” Right before they left – they cracked the code, but they are not spoiling it and invite people to visit Marleys and attempt themselves!
Whether to give it one more attempt to decipher the sign or just because of the beauty of the island, Josh and Whitney decided to extend their stay with some nights. We hope to see them back time and time again!
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