It’s so crazy to believe I only have one more week left on this beautiful island. I've already been getting emotional, soaking in every moment I can with my friends. I know this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and my friends and I have fully embraced that idea—our bank accounts definitely show it!
This past week has been a whirlwind of fun and unforgettable experiences. My absolute favorite activity was our time spent together in Grand Case. A large group of us decided to have dinner at Bistro Caribe, a charming spot known for its incredible seafood. There, I had my very first lobster, and it was an experience to remember. It was a massive 6lb lobster, cooked thermidor style. Every bite was a burst of flavor, and it was worth every penny. Shout out to Dr. Hayes for the fantastic dinner recommendations; the food here has been nothing short of incredible.
Our culinary adventures didn’t stop there. We also visited Balaou in Grand Case, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. Balaou is a unique floating restaurant in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. We discovered it thanks to our friends Layne and Max, who struck up a conversation with some locals. They raved about Balaou, and we decided to check it out. Let me tell you, word-of-mouth recommendations from locals are gold!
The day at Balaou was magical. We spent the entire day lounging on floats, baking in the Caribbean sun, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. The journey there was an adventure in itself—we arrived at a dock, and a boat ferried us to the floating restaurant. It felt like we were in a dream, surrounded by the sea with the horizon stretching endlessly around us. People came and went throughout the day, adding to the vibrant and lively atmosphere.
The food at Balaou was just as spectacular as the setting. Fresh, delicious, and perfectly prepared, it was the perfect complement to our day of relaxation and fun. We felt like true islanders, living the dream, even if just for a day.
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned during this trip is the importance of connecting with locals. By making an effort to talk to them and build relationships, we’ve been guided to some of the best spots on the island. Locals know all the hidden gems—whether it’s the best food, the coolest restaurants, the quaintest shops, or the most beautiful beaches. Places like Balaou, which we might have missed without a local’s tip, have made our trip extraordinary.
As my time here draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the amazing experiences we've had. From the delicious meals to the stunning scenery and the warm, welcoming people, every moment has been precious. It's hard to imagine saying goodbye to this paradise, but I know the memories we've made will last a lifetime.
If you ever get the chance to visit this incredible island, take it. Dive into the culture, make friends with the locals, and don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I promise you, it’s worth it. This trip has been everything I hoped for and more, and I can’t wait to come back someday.
Here’s to one more week of adventure, friendship, and soaking up every bit of island magic. St. Maarten, you’ve been amazing!
Caroline Bean
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