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Hotel at a Glance: Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort Casino & Spa

Set between St. Maarten’s Great Salt Pond and the Atlantic Ocean, the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort Casino & Spa spans a land bridge linking the adults-only, all-inclusive resort to the beach. Its location puts you in the midst of a tropical paradise—Frommer’s says you’ll get “killer views virtually anywhere and everywhere you plop yourself.” Guests get access not only to the resort’s spa, three swimming pools, and nightly entertainment, but also to all the amenities at a sister resort, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort.

• Go for a swim in one of three pools or belly up to the swim-up bar for a refreshing cocktail.
• Grab a bite: Offerings at the four onsite restaurants range from casual buffet fare to fine dining with ocean views.
• Sister resort amenities: casino, nightclub, shops, restaurants, and swimming pools
• Pamper yourself with a massage or facial at Serenity Spa.
• Enjoy the view from your private balcony overlooking the seashore.

St. Maarten: Scenic Shorelines, Lively Nightlife, and Boutique Shopping

The island of St. Maarten, located just south of Anguilla in the Caribbean, was ranked on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Islands in the World for its “soaring mountains and beautiful shorelines.” This gorgeous topography has been peacefully shared by the French and the Dutch for more than 350 years, giving the island two very distinct yet harmonious personalities. Both parts of the island, however, feature crystal-clear bays filled with fascinating coral structures and tropical fish. On the French side, it’s worth it to take a guided snorkeling trip through Creole Rock, which has a collection of boulders encircled by reefs. Dolphins, eagle rays, and barracudas are frequently spotted here.

The Dutch side is known for its quiet beaches and lively nightlife. Casual barbecue restaurants known as lolos line the shore; they serve up heaping portions of creole ribs and rice alongside guava-berry rum. The bars of Simpson Bay are filled with live music and neon lights, and when those close, locals and visitors alike keep the party going at 24-hour casinos.

Maho Village—also on the Dutch side—has its fair share of casinos as well. Nightclubs here host steel-drum bands and oceanfront bonfire parties late into the night. At the Maho Promenade, situated in the center of town, 40 duty-free boutiques sell fine jewelry, watches, and handsome handicrafts. Most shops, cafés, and restaurants stay open until 11 p.m., so you can enjoy a nightcap amid open-air patios as musicians and dancers perform nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to travel to the hotel from the airport? Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is about 5 miles from the property. Cab fare is around $15–$20 from SXM.

2. Is there an additional occupancy fee, or do I have to purchase another voucher? The voucher covers two guests. Please contact the property at (800) 223-0757 to add additional guests.

3. Will I be approached to attend a timeshare sales presentation? Customers are never obligated to attend a sales presentation. If you are approached and decline a presentation, you will not lose the value of your voucher or have to pay additional fees.

4. Which activities and amenities are included in the resort credits? Resort credits are not included with the voucher.

5. Are dinner reservations required for restaurants? Is there a dress code? Reservations are not required. Caribbean chic attire is recommended at Il Pescatore. For more information about your dining options, please click here or call (800) 223-0757.

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