Maho Beach, Sint Maarten

Day 1: Touchdown

My solo trip to the beautiful islands of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin didn’t start as a solo trip. Initially, it was meant to be a group celebration for my 30th birthday. However, I quickly learned that planning trips with friends wasn’t my forte. As plans fell apart, I decided to embrace the adventure alone. This would be my first birthday abroad and alone, and naturally, I was nervous. Questions like, “What will I do?” and “How will I spend my days?” raced through my mind. Little did I know, this trip would become one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

I landed in Sint Maarten with mixed emotions but a determination to make the most of my trip. My home for the next few days was the Simpson Bay Beach Resort, a stunning location right on the beach.

A word of advice if you visit the islands in July: be prepared for the heat and bring plenty of bug spray.

The mosquitoes were relentless, a lesson I learned the hard way.

My first day began, naturally, at the beach. With its clear blue water and soft white sand, Simpson Bay Beach was the perfect spot to start my journey. After some sunbathing, I explored the resort’s local store to stock up on essentials like snacks, water, and sunscreen. It felt oddly comforting to find familiar brands from Chicago.

Day 2:Beach Bliss and New Beginning. My First Solo Birthday!!

The next morning, the mosquitoes decided to join my birthday celebration by biting me in the oddest spots, like my feet and toes while I slept peacefully in my sleep.

I had planned a cooking class at 9 AM, but after going back to sleep, I missed it. Instead, I adjusted my plans and decided to horseback riding, shopping on Front Street, then who knows.

I had an exhilarating afternoon of horseback riding. The guide led us through scenic trails, ending with a ride into the ocean. A tip for future riders: wear sandals, not gym shoes, to allow your feet to dry easily after the ride.

On this trip, I discovered the joy of meeting strangers. A couple I met on the beach became my impromptu photographers, capturing memories that would last a lifetime. Later, my driver offered to be my personal chauffeur for the day, taking me back to Front Street for more exploration. I stumbled upon a small shack selling Jamaican food and enjoyed a delicious curry goat and rice meal. This probably looks disgusting to someone, but it was so delicious

That evening, I ventured to a piano bar at the resort. An older gentleman I met there learned about my solo birthday celebration and rallied the entire bar to sing “Happy Birthday” to me. It was a heartwarming experience that made me feel like a celebrity.

The Maho Beach Adventur

The next morning, despite the rain, I felt a deep sense of peace as I listened to the calming sound of raindrops. I then headed to the famous Maho Beach. While wating to cross the road, my taxi driver warned me about the dangers of getting too close to the airport fence during plane takeoffs. I heeded his advice but couldn’t resist getting into the water to cool off a bit.

While in the water , I experienced the sheer force of a jet blast firsthand. The plane’s exhaust pushed me back into the water, and before I knew it, I was struggling against the powerful current. I almost drowned on my 30th Birthday. Thankfully, a kind stranger noticed my distress and helped me back to safety. The incident left me shaken but grateful for the kind-hearted people I encountered.

A Relaxing Finale to an epic Solo 1st Solo Journey

On my final day, I returned to Marigot for more shopping and enjoyed exploring the Marigot Street Market for affordable treasures. I also learned about the European custom of taking long holidays, something I now aspire to experience myself.

I spent my last hours on the beach, soaking up the sun and reflecting on my journey. The hotel graciously provided a room for guests to freshen up before departure, allowing me to maximize my beach time.

My solo trip to Sint Maarten and Saint Martin was an unforgettable blend of excitement, culture, and relaxation. From the heart-pounding moment at Maho Beach to the serene sands of Orient Bay, each day offered new adventures and flavors. This trip taught me the joy of spontaneity and the kindness of strangers. If you’re considering a solo journey to the Caribbean, let my story inspire you to explore the stunning, diverse, and delicious world of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin. And remember, even if your trip doesn’t go as planned, the experience can still be absolutely magical.