FITZPATRICK JHONELLA

We arrived in St. Maarten 3 days before our cruise and decided to stay on the French side. We were very happy with our decision. St. Martin is quieter and not as touristy as St. Maarten. They use Euros however will take American. The Fantastic Guest House looked a little scary when driving up to it. Room was very basic but had ensuite bathroom with shower. Big deck overlooking the marina. We stayed 3 nights and sat outside with our glass of wine before bed each night. It was pretty quiet and I did not feel unsafe walking around outside.People were friendly and helpful. I speak a little french but it was not necessary as most people speak english. Lots of great French restaurants within walking distance. There wasn't a kettle or coffee pot in the room or anywhere else however it was a great excuse to get up and walk to Sarafina's for great coffee and amazing pastries (food heaven!). i recommend that you walk past the marina and go directly to Sarafinas. The prices at the marina were quite high. We did however have a great meal at a lovely French restaurant that was somewhat reasonable. We did used the pool the first day however after a ball team of preteen boys descended on us, it wasn't looking very clean (boys were very well behaved btw). I would stay here again for a short period. I prefer it to the big all inclusive hotels and it is easier on the pocket book :-) and within walking distance to great restaurants, cafes, spice market and Fort Louis

Stayed here one night after visiting other islands and before flight home.|Had already been to the area as previously stayed on St Martin. No, it doesn't look the prettiest but don't let that put you off. The local folk are friendly and helpful. I wouldn't go out after dark anywhere in the world flashing the cash etc so sensible heads on wherever you vacation.|Check in was easy and staff are|lovely and really helpful. We were on 3rd floor and there are steps up to reception and steps up again which would be a prob if you have mobility issues. Room was spotless with sparkling white sheets and fluffy white towels. En suite is small but has a 1/2 bath and again spotless. Wifi is free and fast. Two huge beds in the room and a fridge. Lots of plug sockets (mixture of Europe and US). Furniture, decor etc very dated but so clean. Carpet was again spotless.|Nice area to sit out and look over the marina and down into the pool.|5 mins walk into the marina and down to the main road by the ferry port. Lots of places to eat and drink. |Parking area looked very small at the front.|We took a taxi from SXM and it was $20. |I wouldn't want to spend my whole vacation here but for short stopovers or if you are taking the ferry from Marigot to St Barths or Anguilla it's fine.

I was going to give only 2 stars, but then I considered the price for which we got the room and added another star. This is certainly not a hotel you will book for a romantic or family holiday. It had beds, air conditioning (although it smelled funky), a toilet and a shower. After checking under the beds for bed bugs, dead hookers, aborted embryos etc.. I concluded that all was relatively clean, just very "worn and torn". Reception was very friendly, otherwise did not see any other staff. OH and the rats that live in the ceiling seem to come home around 5am every morning but they quiet down after a half hour once they get all settled in.