That is the tourism slogan of Anguilla, the small Caribbean paradise standing just a 25-minute boat ride from the Dutch offshore territory of St. Maarten and 20 minutes from French St. Martin. There’s also airlift on small planes since there are no airports to accommodate larger jetliners.
Even though it’s truly a tiny island, Anguilla boasts well-gained reputation as a place of superb quality service. That’s why when vacationing in St. Martin you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to stay at least overnight in this idyllic paradise of breathtaking beaches and kindhearted residents. The island is green in the rainy season and its climate fosters the growth of citrus fruits –so widely used in local cuisine- and juicy peppers, tasty zucchinis and many other crops. Smokey’s, a beachfront restaurant, provides a one-and-only opportunity to taste exquisite cooking and take a quick swim in the balmy waters of the Caribbean Sea. Getting to Anguilla from St. Maarten is as easy as taking the 25-minute flight aboard Funtime Charters, while from St. Martin the best way to do it is from the Blowing Point Ferry Terminal in Marigot. The Cap Juluca, Viceroy Resort, Covecastles Resort and Altamer Villas hotels are just some of the must-sees on the west side of the island. They are great in every way and deserve more than a one-night stay. On the east side, near Long Bay, the famous Cuisinart Resort & Spa Golf Course features jaw-dropping views of St. Martin. Anguilla is a place to visit not only to revel in one-of-a-kind beaches, but also to enjoy tasty and creative gastronomy. Given its laidback atmosphere and its dishes, some locales are especially recommendable: the Straw Hat, the Tasty’s and the Viceroy Anguilla Sunset Lounge. Don’t think twice to order seafood, curried mutton, pasta and shellfish, pie of tomato, vegetables and mozzarella, mollusk fritters or morel eel rolls, let alone other delicacies. Anguilla is working closely with Copa Airlines and the island of St. Martin. Multidestination is the goal in mind. But as travelers get used to the place, the Tourism Authority proposes a number of day tours. “There are some incredible offers,” says Candis Niles, the local tourism director. “There are 33 pristine untapped beaches, watersports, snorkeling, scuba diving and a whole lot more. It’s all about a safe, placid paradise full of nice and educated people.” We’ll be back for sure, but for a longer stay. You’re invited as well.
Yndiana Montes© 2010 Copyrights EXCELENCIAS GROUP. All rights reserved.