Check this page regularly for the scoop on both Statia and Saba.  My regular contact with the island affords me the interesting news that I can pass on to you.  I am so pleased to report everything is better than ever on these two Caribbean gems.  The big news is that it's cheaper and easier to get to St. Maarten, then Saba or Statia, than ever.  Check my Best Airfares page for recent quotes or better yet, call or email me with a window of your travel time and your gateway city.  Air connections are easier; the islands are greener and lusher; the hotels have "notched up"; the restaurants are still affordable but with more variety and the diving is superb!  Saba celebrated its 20-year anniversary of its marine park and conservation foundation while Statia is celebrating its 10th!  Years of marine protection on both islands makes a remarkable difference that becomes all the more apparent over time.  More and more fish!  

Take me to fantastic Saba film!

September 2008--It's time to look ahead to Sea & Learn on Saba 2008, the 6th year for this award winning event that's so important to Saba's next generation and added value to tourists visiting.  It all happens next month but have a look now at the website and calendar:  www.seaandlearn.org

August 2008--It's time I remind you of one of my favorite hotels on Saba that has just vamped up:  Queen's Gardens Resort.  Under the keen, demanding Dutch eyes of Hidde ver Beke for more than a year now, QGR has removed the kitchens in each unit (a fantastic restaurant so why would you cook?) and used this area for a comfortable executive work area.  Now with wireless throughout the property, each suite has a flat-screen tv, Dolby Surround Stereo, IPod docking stations in the bedroom and living area, new furnishings, refurbished bathrooms with classy fixtures and rain and massage shower heads.  And if hiking trails is not your idea of a work out, they have a new exercise room with a Bowflex, stationary bikes, a treadmill and free weights.  But most importantly, this hotel has a great restaurant with the service to match whether you want room service, poolside attention or a romantic dinner below the mango trees.

July 2008--I guess I should call this my 'featured property of the month' because I'm so excited about this luxury home new to the Saba market place: Carolina Cottage. One look at the images below and you don't need to read my text--it's just a stunning place if you're looking for a beautiful private place with commanding views:

June 2008--It didn't take long for a cool thing like Geocaching to catch on for Saba.  It makes sense as you feel like you're one of the first to discover this special island anyway.  So going on a hike, where you seldom see others, makes the intrigue of finding a geo cache feel all the more adventurous.  Check out the details of where the Geocaches are on Saba so you have another reason to explore the island topside.

May 2008--Now this is exciting.  Jan den Dulk, the Manager of the Saba Conservation Foundation including Saba's Marine Park has officially promised that they will put 4 new dive site moorings in the park by the end of 2008.  My guess is that some of these will be re-installations to places like Otto Limits (not Outer Limits), sites that are on the original map of the park but moorings that have not been in place for more than decade.  Nevertheless, great news for divers!

April 2008--More rental houses and villas are available on Saba.  Carolina Cottage, Pilot House, Fairview and more.  Check out my Cottages and Villas page for all the scoop on all of Saba's property options.   

March 2008--Lots of upgrades so some of my favorite properties:  Juliana's already revamped Orchid Cottage (see Dec '07) and is now doing a number on their rooms:  new beds, bedding, different configurations, etc.  Queen's Gardens has followed suit with flat screen tvs, wireless throughout, kitchens replaces with work stations and more.  Just another reason to come back to Saba!

February 2008--I am so excited!  Finally Saba has a promotional piece that adequately represents the island's beauty and tranquility!  Saba residents Adam and Sabine Watkins were commissioned by Saba tourism to produce a lovely 6 minute video.  Also, check out their website for a recent shark feeding frenzy @ Third Encounter.  Click on the icon below and enjoy!

January 2008--After 8 yeas, my friends The Hartleibs are turning over El Momo Cottage to Andreis Bonnema.  Ollie, Angelika and their two children are going back to their native Germany.  Andreis brings new energy to Saba's very popular eco retreat.

December 2007--Orchid Cottage gets a facelift.  Many time return diver Paul Cizek helped in the makeover.  How many kitchen cabinets did you need in a rental?  Just removing these makes a big difference in a more open feeling but cozier colors and new bedding maintain the status as the #1 property on Saba.

November 2007--The Saba Conservation Foundation and Crocodile James continue to do great work.  You can now do the famed Mt. Scenery hike as a more interesting loop rather than up the steps and down the steps.  Upgrades have been done at Cat's Eye and Orchid Cottages...and watch next month for the announcement of a new cottage rental.

October 2007--You have to look at the News page of the Sea & Learn website---the count is now up to 25 new species discovered at the Saba Bank!  Cool stuff or what?!  This award-winning program is just one example of what sets Saba apart from other destinations in the Caribbean, or for that matter, the world.  A sincere conscience and conservation actions.  Contact me now for the 2008 program.

September 2007--The 5th annual Sea & Learn on Saba has posted its calendar for this year's event.  Check out the 'every other night schedule' on www.seaandlearn.org.  I am biased as Mel Hutchinson is one of my clients, but her talk on Chemical Ecology on the Reef intrigues me as much as Matt Potensky's talk on the largest fish of the sea, whale sharks.  Have a look and call me to book!

August 2007--El Momo Cottages is now declared Saba's first "smoke free" property.  All about health and well ness, this was a logical next step.  It becomes official in January 2008 so if you're booked and hooked, there are options before the new year.  Ollie and Angelika continue to upgrade this precious perch on Booby Hill.  The latest is new outdoor furnishings. 

July 2007--The Saba Bank Project has begun on Saba.  Now this is cool stuff--a 6-month research project on what has been Saba's fishing grounds for centuries.  Now, Conservation International has declared the area an environmental hotspot.  The preliminary research found new species of algae and a new goby AND a wreck.  So stay tuned for new discoveries.

june 2007--After years of hoping someone would restore my favorite building at Captain's Quarters, our hopes are lost.  A bulldozer easily toppled what was remaining of this historical hotel which was severely damaged in 1998's Hurricane Georges.  I, like many others, are waiting to see what will happen with this prime piece of real estate.

May 2007--The Saba Bank Project is going to start this summer.  This area starts just 6 miles from Saba's Marine Park and covers more than 250 square miles.  It's actually one of the world's largest atolls.  Follow the news pages of www.seasaba.com as well as www.sabapark.org for more info.  Although this area is not a dove by dive shops on Saba and Statia, it greatly influences both marine habitats.  The research and protection involved with this program is a win/win for both islands.

April 2007--More house rentals to choose from!  There are so many options and locations to choose from.  See my Cottages and Villas page for the new properties of Hummingbird House, Madison House, Paddington Place, Hibiscus Cottage and coming soon, The Pilot House.  And Happy Birthday Bruno!  Sea Saba's long-term employee Bruno Lei awoke to a "boat emergency phone call" which instead turned out to be his 30-year birthday surprise party.  John and Lynn treated the crew to a fun day aboard Giant Stride--headed to Statia where they dove The Charlie Brown and had lunch at The Blue Bead Restaurant--see Vivi's photos in the Statia section. 

March 2007--On the natural side of things, the few lucky guests to be on board Giant Stride on March 14 were treated to some surface splashing by a humpback whale.  Humpbacks migrate parallel to Saba each year.  A few annual sightings are to be expected between January and early April.

February 2007--Juliana's Hotel is always doing a few little things to make the property nicer.  Orchid Guy Stewart Chipka now lives near by and is lending his creative hands to Wim and Johanna.  His unmatched knowledge of orchids and plants unearthed some overgrown orchids at their namesake "Orchid Cottage".  Always known for Juliana's lovely gardens, the natural next step was to set up their mini botanical garden.  And later this month Stewart's skilled hands created a new path to Orchid Cottage.

January 2007--El Momo Cottages continues to upgrade their cottages.  Starting off on the premise of cheap and cheerful, this popular eco style retreat has evolved to become a nature lover's paradise. Improvements for 2007 simply mean it makes staying at El Momo an easier decision and a bit more convenient.  Still reasonably priced with exceptional value, a new plumbing system translates to guaranteed hot showers rather than relying on sunshine to heat the solar showers.  Angelika's cooking is now that much easier to enjoy knowing it's all the more healthy with only vegetarian and some seafood main courses offered.

December 2006--Queen's Gardens Resort has a new chef that is the talk of the town!  Make a reservation for Lotte's exquisite cuisine.  From Thai Lime Soup to chocolate fondue with all sorts of nice stuff in between, the combination of great food and romantic ambience make this worth the taxi fare to enjoy a special evening out. 

November 2006--Orchid Cottage (part of Juliana's Hotel) has unearthed more incredible plants as part of its ongoing botanical garden work being done in cooperation with Stewart Chipka of the Saba Orchid Research Center.  A gas grill has also been added to take advantage of the sunset evenings to be enjoyed from your deck. 

October 2006--My clients report not only having a great dive trip on Saba but the added bonus of attending Sea & Learn 2006.  This year's event was another great success with nature topics ranging from palm trees and orchids to the foremost expert on Southern Stingrays and a super cool guy from the Shark Research Institute.

September 2006--September is traditionally the month when Caribbean businesses are slow and use the time for maintenance and general catch-up or staff vacations.  For those divers who enjoy a bit of gamble, you can get the best pricing in this month.  Sea Saba, Juliana's Hotel and El Momo Cottages are offering 4 for the price of 3 on all diving and hotel services this month only.  The gamble is that September is historically the high risk month for storms...BUT, if there's no storm, it's also traditionally the most incredible weather month with calm seas and warm, clear water the norm.  

August 2006--Lots of great stuff going on on Saba--traditional great summer diving with warm waters and typical summer sightings from seahorses to manta rays.  There's still a few Summer Specials to take advantage of so just ask when you email or call.  The tourist related businesses as well as the local community are all a buzz with the arrival of a new Saba Marine Park Director.  Jan van den Dulk seems to have new energy and focus that are welcome.  Two more great rental houses now on the Saba scene--Hummingbird House and Madison House are both suitable for 4-6 people (Hummingbird can actually take 8-9).  My Private Cottages page of this site already has quite a variety of options other than hotels.  This page will be updated with these new properties as soon as I received photos and specs from the owners.  Stand by!

July 2006--Juliana's Hotel and Sea Saba have announced a revised Summer Special valid through September 30, 2006.  This special package at a great price includes 3 dinners @ Tropics, free upgrades, a free dive AND your choice of a nitrox course, nitrox tanks or a 3-day digital camera rental--call me to book now and take advantage of great summer airfares as well.

May 2006--Queen's Gardens Resort has changed their management team.  For those who visited this year, you'll recognize Ron who was assisting in the office is now in charge of this property.  Tropics Cafe, part of Juliana's Hotel has changed their menus.  Focusing on fun, good consistent food, and something not everyone else is doing, look forward Saba's most popular breakfast menu (ranging from a yogurt bowl to Tropics Morning Quesadilla) and a lunch and dinner menu more in line with a TGIF American restaurant--burgers, sandwiches and salads with the focus on fun and fulfilling.

April 2006--Vacation may relax some people, others take that spare time to do something creative or that they've been meaning to get to.  John and Lynn of Sea Saba went to Costa Rica for the better part of April.  Exploring the diverse nature of that country inspired them to refocus on Saba's nature and how it relates to other places they've traveled and photographed.  Saba Images and Beyond is not only a nice collection of Saba's nature, but the bits of other info covered make for fun and informative reading.

March 2006--Now the world is hearing what an environmental 'hot spot' the waters of the Saba Bank are--newspapers and newswires worldwide carried the story (many on their home page) of the Saba Bank research project where 13 scientists studied this 250 square mile fishing area.  The scientists discovered two new species of fish and an array of new seaweeds.  This work will help define the new International Maritime Laws needed to protect this area which will ensure the long-term outlook of the fabulous marine life of both Saba and Statia.  For more news on this work, start with the story on the Sea Saba Nature News page which links to the international stories.

February 2006--Sea Saba Dive Center has long been recognized as the premiere dive center in the region.  Now it's official!  For the second time in 6 years, this dive center has been awarded The 2nd Best Dive Center in the Caribbean by Tauchen magazine, Germany's top dive magazine.

January 2006--Saba's enjoying a great start to the new year.  Continued competitive access from US air carriers makes getting to Saba easier than ever.  After months of talk, Dawn II is a reality.  This new ferry boat is set up to service Sabans for freight as well as moving people to and from Saba at a more reasonable price.  The boat runs 5 days per week and departs Saba @ Dawn and the leaves St. Maarten at 5 p.m. or 6 p.m.  Check their website for options and contact info for a booking.  

more Saba stories below or link to stories on Statia.

December 2005--I am so pleased to announce a fabulous cottage that has now become available for rental.  "House on the Path" is something really special--a quiet retreat--5 minutes hike up a wooded path from Windwardside a special place is yours to call home for your stay on Saba.  The closest neighbor is not within ear shot.  The only way to describe the interior is to say it's how you would envision an idyllic turn-of-of-the-century quaint cottage complete with antiques, hard wood floors and even a claw-foot bath tub.  Click to the Cottages and Private Villas page (Like No Where Else bookmark) of my site for more photos and info.

November 2005--Juliana's Hotel continues with small touches that keep making this hotel better.  Mango Apartment has just had a makeover by local artist Robbie Lynne.  The 3-room apartment with its own balcony is now more romantic and cozy with a rainforest motif in the living and bedroom area.  Consider booking make for a minimal 'upcharge' and enjoy more space and privacy.  Click on the thumbnail to the right for a view of the bedroom or go to this link on the Juliana's site for a full slide show.  

October 2005--Sea & Learn on Saba is now in its 3rd year.  Check out the website providing you biographies on the renowned nature experts as well as news updates.  This unique event is only made possible by a strong community effort.  And what I really like about it is that it's working with Saba's youth as well--guaranteeing all of us that every effort is being made to keep Saba unspoiled for generations to come.

September 2005--The Cottage Club is under new management.  Aaron Soares is from the island of Anegada (British Virgin Islands) but his ancestry does trace back to Saba.  Aaron is busy revamping The Cottage Club's website and reservation system but for now, look forward to a consistent smiling face to service your needs at this outstanding property. Call me for the latest rates and updates.

August 2005--Mountain Spring Villas is an underrated property on Saba.  I have had it on my website for a few years but have to admit even I did not give it enough credit.  In the past few months the property has had a few upgrades worth my mentioning.  Located on "The Level", this area of Saba is otherwise residential with sweeping 180` views of the mountains and sea.  The three houses that make up MSV have each had decks put on so that there's now a comfortable place to take advantage of these views.  Best yet, the pricing for these 3-bedroom houses can't be beat--so bring a few friends and enjoy!  Coolest air temps on the island, many amenities...call me!

July 2005--It's Carnival time on Saba.  This year is Saba's 30th anniversary event and promises to be bigger than the events of the last year.  Special funding has allowed this annual cultural event to bring back the enthusiasm of years past.  Stay tuned for photos and reports from Empire Scuba, the group I arranged to be on Saba during Carnival.  

June 2005--Mark your Saba trip calendar for Sunday night at Tropics Cafe for the "Dive Buddy Buffet".  Bring your c-card and your dive story of the week.  Designed for diver interaction the restaurant has put out a general invitation to all divers on the island for a great social evening at a great price.  Meet divers diving with various dive shops, dive staff and owners and residents who live on the island---swap stories, compare notes and have a great time.  Tuna, chicken and veggie kebabs are on the bar-b-que served with delicious Caesar salad, corn on the cob and potato salad just like grandma used to make...sounds like a 4th of July party for divers only to me!

May 2005--When I lived on Saba, The Unique Store, was a tiny corner shop less than a block away from my house.  With an my first son Larry on my hip, it was easy to literally run up there and grab that missing ingredient for dinner.  So for me to see Addy's bright new airco'd super market on the main road is great fun.  Good luck Addy!

April 2005--Lots of good bits of news this month.  Hot tubs, Caribbean night and Saba photo galleries.  Here goes!  Juliana's purchased two hot tubs.  One has been placed in front of the pool for use by all hotel guests.  Another will be on a new deck at Flossie's Cottage, making this two-bedroom cottage all the more attractive.  A private jacuzzi, multiple ocean and mountain views and a great location--fantastic!  Saturday night is a new theme night at Juliana's.  Join the fun with authentic steel drum music and traditional Caribbean food--from curried goat and conch fritters to johnny cakes and you guessed it, Wim's wild rum punch!  David DaCosta, a long-time return client of mine, has updated his Saba galleries on his intriguing website:  www.digitaloceans.net  Need a Saba fix or want to have a look through the eyes of a fellow diver?  This site is a crowd pleaser!

March 2005--It's official!  Sea Saba is now a PADI National Geographic Dive Center.  This only makes sense as Sea Saba is an environmentally conscious operation with dedicated and knowledgeable staff  who are always looking to give a diver added extra effort to make sure you get the most out of your dive vacation.  The PADI National Geographic program offers a structured course designed to take you from being a diving tourist to an underwater explorer.   Do you want more out of a dive than just looking at pretty fish and to say "been there done that"?  Consider a course that will not only fine tune your buoyancy and assure you can navigate but will give you the tools to distinguish a stoplight parrot fish from a midnight parrot fish.  The PADI National Geographic program is setup to give you a new perspective on the underwater environment.  So instead of daydreaming as an armchair traveler, ask for your first assignment.  The course is extra fun to do as a small group or what a blast to do as a family plan.  See the Latest News page of the Sea Saba website...followed soon by an update on their Training & Coures pages.  And, Golden Rock Dive Center on Statia is also a PADI National Geographic Dive Center--so it's easy to do part of the course on one island and finish it on the next!

February 2005--Iris House now belongs to a new owner and it's available for rental.  I've actually been renting it to very satisfied customers since December ☺  Here's what my first clients Mike and Charly had to say:  "I've done more than 5,000  dives in my life and dove all over the world.  When I called Beth, I wanted something special on Saba.  She set us up as the first renters of Iris House and we couldn't be more pleased.  Very convenient in the main village, private pool, great view, charming and romantic and a great price.  Thanks Beth!"  See my Saba Cottages & Villas page of this site for photos of this special cottage as well as an array of others

January 2005--I try NOT to only report about Sea & Learn on Saba, BUT, so much other news pales by comparison.  January 15-22 2005, Dr. Mark Marks, world renowned great white shark expert will be on Saba giving a few presentations as well as working with Saba's Scout's and Rangers program.  How cool is that?!

December 2004--As part of the island's Sea & Learn program, octopus guru Dr. Roger Hanlon of Woods Hole Oceanographic conducted octopus research.  Stay tuned for news of perhaps the first Atlantic sightings of mimicry.  Look toward January when a shark expert will be on Saba. 

November 2004--Sweet airfares and some special pricing now available for winter getaways.  Check out my Best Airfares page for some samples but better yet, give me a call--if you get my voicemail, leave a detailed message including your gateway city so I can get back to you with an effective quote.  There are fantastic fares in place for travel before February 16 if you book in the next few weeks.  And if that timing works for you, consider a Royal Getaway.  Queen's Gardens Resort is offering quite unbelievably low rates especially for my clients.  Go to the Beth's Exclusive page for details.  

October 2004--Sea & Learn on Saba is where to be in October!  I just can't believe what a cool event a small island with a handful of determined business owners has created.  Here's just a few of the first photos out from the first week.  How cool is this?  You can join a NY artist for a bit of an art class--but something with a twist.  You get to go underwater with his high tech Aquasketch--think of it as an underwater 'Etch-a-Sketch' if you're old enough to know what that is.  But this new gadget is used by NASA.  The events of Sea & Learn are all focused on enhancing your environmental awareness.  But part of the program is to bring that awareness out with adults and school children.  So this year the organizers invited down Mark Hagan to do just that.  So this is one expert of 28.  The remaining experts range from scientists to biologists and naturalists.  Each gives a multi media presentation and offers 'hands on' opportunities both at the local school and with adults--locals and tourists. So if you're looking for a reason to visit Saba or plan a fall trip, this event will make you feel like you've had the most unique vacation ever.

September 2004--Two of my favorite cottages have news:  The owners of Cat's Eye are retired landscape company owners so it's no surprise they continue to improve their property.  This summer, they've planted a vegetable garden and improved the ocean view while doing more stone walls and wonderful flowers.  Daphne Cottage has new owners and a more attractive price.  Garden Cottage is rarely available now that the owners live on Saba.  Garden Studio is a lovely, affordable option for a single or couple.  Enjoy the same quiet and view as Garden Cottage while you soak in a private hot tub.  Fully equipped kitchen, cable tv, stereo, phone and even airco.  My site will be updated soon with photos.  In the meantime, call for details and pricing.  And when is the perfect time to travel for diving to the Caribbean?  Well that would be when the sea is calm, the sky is blue and fish abound--when is that?  There's no way to predict perfect weather, even in paradise.  Hurricane Season is officially June 1-November 30 each year.  The highest risk of a storm in the area of Saba tends to be the month of September.  But if there's not a storm effecting the area, the diving conditions can be superb.  It's never a bad idea to check the latest weather update before traveling.  Saba's coordinates are 17.3N and 63.7W.  There are a number of dedicated weather websites but most feel the official forecast is by the experts at the National Hurricane Center:  www.nhc.noaa.gov  As of September 26, Saba (and Statia) remains storm free.

August 2004--Looking to finish off the summer right?  Check out my Sizzlin' September Special...Saba's is not a place that you book because it's the cheapest dive destination in the Caribbean.  Instead, it's a place that once you read about it, you know it's just a matter of time before you make the trip.  Unheard of low airfares combined with a last minute package at Juliana's Hotel with Sea Saba may make September the right time to make it to Saba.  Go to my Beth's Exclusive Deals page for more information. 

July 2004--Many of my clients are enjoying the great Summer Special packages I booked them on Saba.  From fantastic nitrox and advance course prices to room upgrades, free nights and more diving. Also, Daphne Cottage has new owners and have lowered their price so a dive package for a week is just $783 per person.  Call or emal for more details but in essence, no secret costs, just extra special value.  . 

June 2004--Although many tourists think "they're so cute", feral goats, or for that matter, any roaming animals are an environmental concern on the island of Saba or elsewhere.  The Saba Conservation Foundation has finally found the angle to address this situation after many years of debate between goat owners, residents and politicians.  Read more about his issue on the Local News page of Sea Saba's website.  Is Saba serious about its nature conservation? You bet!  Check out www.seaandlearn.org and contact me to book your October trip.  Sea & Learn is just one more reason to visit Saba---wonderful added value to your trip at no extra charge.

May 2004-Sea Saba was awarded an Environmental Achievement Award from Project Aware, a U.S. based affiliation of P.A.D.I. for the Sea & Learn on Saba project.  Sea & Learn is an annual event put on in the month of October.  The first annual event was coordinated primarily by Lynn of Sea Saba and Johanna of Juliana's but only possible with the help of many sponsors.  Together with Angelika of El  Momo, they have now set up a foundation as the project is really gaining momentum.  Another reason to go to Saba!

April 2004-The secret is getting out!  Read about Statia and Saba in the May 2004 edition of Dive Training magazine--at the newstands now!  More interesting evenings at Tropics Cafe!  "Movie Night" is every Friday.  Sit back in the amphitheater around the pool, enjoy a recent flick on a large screen and order your choice of fish, beef or chicken burger served with fries.  All this for just $10.  On Mondays, enjoy a Caribbean evening.  Listen to a steal drum while enjoying "Surf & Turf".  Choose from a ribeye steak or half Saba lobster tail for $16.95.

March 2004-Something really different...Manny Sunset Dinner cruise debuts.  Your friendly taxi driver is a former St. Maarten chef.  Do something different!  Cruise to Well's Bay to watch the sunset while Manny barbeques a choice of meats, lobster salad, West Indian treats and drinks--casual fun with your diving buddies.  Just ask him while you're on Saba.

February 2004-Wow, two more great restaurant additions.  Saba's Treasure (below Saba's new guest house on 'Main Street') and Galaxy Restaurant and Disco...stay tuned for photos and more!

January 2004-Juliana's Hotel announces changes at Tropics Cafe.  With the emphasis on 'crowd pleasing', the pool-side restaurant will once again be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Reasonable prices, variety and fun are the emphasis.  Also management changes at Queen's Gardens Resort both at the restaurant and hotel.  Steve and Kathy Hassell are your hosts.  They managed Captain's Quarters in its glory years.  Chef Max will introduce a complete new menu and level of service at the restaurant, King's Crown (formerly Mango Royale).

December 2003-El Momo Cottages, the leader in 'greening Saba's hotels, now offers more choices with eco cottages with either private or shared bathrooms--some say the best value in the Caribbean.

November 2003-It's official!  Saba has announced "The Hell's Gate Challenge".  A triathlon with a different twist---well, it's Saba you know.  Bring a friend or two, challenge the locals and have a blast.  See if you can swim like a fish, bike like a fool and hike like a goat.  The event takes place December 7th during the Saba Day weekend.  Start time is 7 a.m.  The event is being set up by Ecolodge Rendezvous. There's a registration fee with proceeds benefiting the Saba Conservation Foundation.  Prizes will be awarded, breakfast provided after the race.  C'mon, give it a whirl!

October 2003-Think September and October are off limits for diving the Caribbean?  Check out what divers have seen during these idyllic months on Saba.  So, another reason to visit Saba is Sea & Learn on Saba which is put on by my pals at Sea Saba and Juliana's Hotel.  Throughout the month of October, Guest Lecturers from all parts of the world having been giving presentations on many aspects of nature.  The project so suits Saba that many synergies are already developing.  The month kicked off with rainforest expert Pedro Rivera.  He promises to return with a Smithsonian group to do a mapping project in Saba's elfin forest.  Saba's resident Mary Roduner, now known as "the bug lady" is teaming up with orchid expert Stuart Chipka to assist with his research project.  Mary will document which specific moth pollinates his favorite orchid.  And the new buzz word on Saba is "muck" diving.  John of Sea Saba entertained school children, resident and visiting divers with a captivating photographic presentation of muck creatures found in his world travels but also on Saba.  Turtle experts from Antigua are looking to expand a similar project to include Saba...And the list goes on...  Sea Saba's Sea & Learn page has regular updates and a ton of information about this now annual event.  Dive groups can also prearrange for local experts to give repeat performances at other times throughout the year.

September 2003--Saba/NYC--Well, I am proud to say it's one of my customers who has a fantastic photo exhibit of Saba being displayed in New York City.  For the next 6 weeks, you have a great excuse for a night out in New York:  an awesome dinner at Col Legno Italian Eatery (and reasonably priced, too!) in The Village (231 East 9th Street) while viewing Digital Oceans, a photographic exhibit by David DaCosta.  I have the pleasure of often times booking David and his wife Francoise Giacalone and many of their friends' trips to Saba.  David is an excellent photographer so the exhibit promises to be a hit!  I'll have a few samples of his work on this site soon.

All summer long, the Fulmer's have been busy making Cat's Eye even more special.  Check out the extras added to Cat's Eye Cottage--a nice little story on Sea Saba's Local News page.  Sea Saba's M/V Sea Dragon spent a week in St. Maarten with cosmetic improvements necessary for a hard working dive boat.  She's now ready for the busy season ahead!

August 2003--The island anxiously awaits the month of October for the first Sea & Learn on Saba.  Saba's different so they don't have photo contests and big partying events, instead this is more of a nature celebration.  Celebration in the true sense of the word, not a party.  So if you're planning a trip in this time frame, you get a whole lot of extra value.  For no extra charge, enjoy presentations given by experts on everything from Tropicbirds and rainforests to sharks and seahorses.  A casual learning environment, no tests, after diving time and before dinner time.  Many of the experts will also have field projects you can participate in.  For full biographies of the experts and the days they will be on island, link to the Sea & Learn page on Sea Saba's website.  And while you're on their site, have a look at the Nature News page and read about the mantas and frogfish being seen all summer long!

June '03 Saba Trip notes...First stop was Cottage in the Sky at El Momo.  Wow!  Not for the weary but you don't mind a bit of a workout, this cottage is like no where else...I spent the night, had dinner with the Hartleib Family.  The views from this cottage are what make it so remarkable.  Simple wooden cottage, built in the Saba tradition but taking advantage of the Caribbean with a semi-outdoor dining and bathroom. 

Met the new owners of Juliana's Hotel...Wim and Johanna were my gracious hosts.  I last saw Johanna when she was about 12 years old so it was a fun reunion.  The small changes and improvements made at the property really make a nice difference:  more colorful artwork, mini bars in rooms, furniture updates, a computer terminal in the recreation room.  Yoga and pilates classes and the healthy great food at Tropics encourage you to take a healthier look at your holiday.  But not to worry, Caroline also has Belgian beers and a nice wine selection for the end of your day. 

I had the pleasure of having lunch with Franklin and Juliana Johnson.  Though technically "retired" and enjoying their beautiful new home on "The Level", you'll still see them around the grounds of Juliana's or out and about.  This is a most welcome sight for those who have stayed at Juliana's over the years and grew to love these great people like I do!  Thanks for the lunch, Franklin!

Ahh...finally got to Rendezvous Ecolodge in person!  What a fun spot this is.  A living nature fantasy--sort of a feeling of "wouldn't it be nice to be able to live right in the forest" and these great little cottages and excellent restaurant appear on the path.  I had lunch and dinner here and a full tour.  A definite "can't miss" on meal planning and a consideration for those travelers looking for the 100% eco experience.

Queen's Gardens Resort is under new management.  I'm thrilled to see this beautiful property now in the hands of two competent professionals.  Alieke and Sebastian are charming hosts who are keen to have this property run to a standard you would expect. (see Jan '04 notes about next management team.) The "in room" jacuzzis are once again functional, the property is being painted and the garden is beautiful.  Looking for an upscale property at a really reasonable price?  Take advantage of this beautiful place before prices go up!

Statia--July 2008--More thanks to Conservation International, a beetle study is being done on both Statia and Saba.  Dr. Michael Ivie has added 13 new families of beetles to the list, and that was only after 2 days of collecting.  Stayed tuned for more bug updates!

June 2008--Like Saba, Statia will soon have an island wide plant inventory thanks to Conservation International and New York Botanical Garden. The study has found a new orchid, my favorites, hidden behind rocks in The Quill. 

March 2008--Local divers Brenda and Duncan Kirby continue to go wild with their digital camears...just a few examples:

February 2008--St. Maarten Daily Herald correspondent Suzanne Nielsen (resident of Saba) traveled to Statia with Conservation International scientists to inventory plants, mosses and lichen.  Statia's Junior Ranger program is involved with the collection process and analyses.

January 2008--The Morning Glory (the only place on the planet this plant is found is Statia) holds the title of the rarest plant in the Dutch Kingdom.  Once thought to be extinct, New York Botanical Garden botanists confirmed its existence.  Cataloging this plant and others is the first step to producing a comprehensive 'on-line herbarium'--the first ever was done on Saba last year.

December 2007--After 10 years of hard work and dedication, the Statia Marine Park has now gained status as a National Park.  Paul Hoetjes of MINA was present to make the official announcement at the STINAPA annual meeting.  

October 2007--STINAPA and the island of Statia have plenty to celebrate--October 2007 markes 10 years of the marine park!  Hooray!

August 2007--A baby whale has been seen in Statoa's waters now for weeks.  These sights have occurred after weeks of sightings of two large whales in front of the Chales Brown. 

July 2007--Congratulations Ingrid and Menno of Scubaqua Dive Center on the birth of your newborn!

June 2007--The first leatherback turtle hatchlings of 2007 have been sighted.  Zeelandia Beach is an important location not only on Statia but in this region for its leatherback, hawksbill and green turtle nesting sights.  Bird predation, extreme sun and other natural conditions make hatchling survival all the more difficult.  Only 20 hatchlings from the season's first nest sight made it from Zeelandia Beach to the Atlantic Ocean to start their life journey.

May 2007--We look forward to more news on the next stage of completion of Statia's Botanical Garden.  Like many environmental projects in the Dutch Caribbean, this program is funded by the Prins Bernhard Fund of the Netherlands.  The Botanical Garden is located on the southern slope of the Quill Volcano.  As it faces prevailing tradewinds, stone walls have been created as wind breaks and erosion control for the many fragile plants.  In addition to propagating plants (like the Morning Glory--see Jan '07), the organization also provides environmental education to school children.

April 2007--Subaqua took the Sea Saba gang for a dive and later enjoyed lunch with them as part of Bruno's birthday celebration.  Photos by Vivi Pimentel.

March 2007--It was Menno's lucky day to be diving the M/V Charles Brown when a curious whale shark not only passed by but hung out for almost 20 minutes! 

February 2007--Golden Rock Dive Center says goodbye to many year veteran Mike and welcomes in ...

January 2007--I didn't realize that Morning Glory flowers (Impomoea sphenophylla) is endemic to the island of Statia.  STENAPA is working with Statia's Oil Terminal staff to ensure the protection of this vine as it is only found in a few areas on the island.

December 2006--Statia welcomes Ingrid and Menno Walter, formerly of the Maldives, are the new owners of Subaqua.  Ranald is still on-island but focusing his energy between Statia Lodge and The Blue Bead Restaurant. 

November 2006--Lisa (Hawksbill Turtle being tracked) is really island hopping while the mellower Grace (Green Turtle being tracked) is sticking closer to home--or at least so far--check the paths and favorite spots of these gals on the newly revamped website of the Statia Marine Park:  www.statiapark.org.

October 2006--The Sea Turtle Satellite Tracking program is showing interesting results.  Follow the path of these nesting females to understand more about this endangered animal.  You can monitor their journeys and learn more on www.statiapark.org.

September 2006--At this slowest time of year, both The Old Gin House and many of the dive centers close their doors to recharge their batteries.  See you in the high season!

August 2006--Two female turtles are fitted with transmitters by the STENAPA team during a night time nesting event. Monitoring of their nesting and migratory paths will hopefully yield interesting information to understand whether they stay around Statia or travel in the region or further.

July 2006--Looking toward the school year, STENAPA (the conservation foundation of Statia) has a number of programs in the works.  Elementary schools have a full program geared toward interesting youth in sea turtles and marine life in general.  The Snorkel Club is a 3-month program aimed at environmental awareness but also teaching water safety.  The Junior Rangers Club does a wide variety of work from the botanical garden to the marine park in order for students to gain a good understanding of nature, marine and wildlife conservation. 

May 2006--Be sure to schedule a guided tour of Statia's Botanical Garden--something different to do after diving!

March 2006--Click on the thumbnail to view how much growth is now on the wreck of Charlie Brown.  Glenn of Golden Rock received first prize for this image at the recent Duikvakker trade show in Holland.  The photo will soon be in Duiken magazine.  

February 2006--Every Wednesday night is barbeque night @ The Old Gin House--live music, good cheap food and a good time guaranteed.  Set up for divers, the fun starts early and ends just after 9 p.m.  Join the fun with local bands Calypso Bandigo, Colors, Gone 2 Come Back or sometimes just a great DJ playing your favorites.  

January 2006--For Europeans, look to meet Glenn Faires, Old Gin House Manager and owner of Golden Rock Dive Center at both the Boot show in Dusseldorf , Germany and Duikvaaker in Utrecht, Holland.

December 2005--Subaqua owners announce the opening of their new accommodations.  These wooden cottages are located near a beach where you have snorkel access.  About 20 mins from the dive center but scooter and car rentals available--more info soon--for now some nice photos:

More information soon about this new choice to stay on Statia!

November 2005--Golden Rock Dive Center is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.  In celebration of a decade of great business, they've rolled back prices to the original rates.  Call or email me to book a special package at a great rate while the special continues.

October 2005--The secret will soon be out--Sport Diver magazine is publishing a 5-page feature article on the island of Statia.  Check the newsstands for this dive magazine's take on Statia's diving, it's history and topside beauty.

September 2005--Caribbean Sun Airlines will soon announce their new schedules which promise direct service from San Juan, Puerto Rico directly to Statia.  This new route opens up a number of options for divers traveling from cities west of the Mississippi as well as holders of mileage tickets on airlines which don't fly directly in to St. Maarten.  Stay tuned!

June 2005--Paul Hoetjes is a familiar name in the Netherlands Antilles.  This month finds the marine biologist who makes his home in Curacao on Statia to conduct Reef Check training dives.  The two day training session was well attended by local dive shop staff as well as local volunteers.  This well recognized methodology for reef surveying yielded the positive results you would expect.  Statia's reefs are considered very healthy.  Survey work and local cooperation like this will help to ensure the reefs' health in the future.

May 2005--It's the time of year again when local STENAPA volunteers begin turtle monitoring of the 3 species known to nest on Statia's beaches.  Volunteers report "everything seems to be happening sooner this year."  At this point, nesting of hawksbills has already been recorded, normally an event that begins in June or July.  

April 2005--New volunteers are busy at Statia's three parks.  An international team of volunteers have arrived on Statia.  The Quill National Park, Botanical Garden and Statia Marine Park each benefit from the young hardworking volunteers who come to Statia for 8 weeks to 6 month periods. The tasks are varied for each team.  Trail maintenance and new signage made of natural materials are almost complete for the Quill National Park.  Volunteer work has linked the Bird Trail to the Round the Mountain Trail in Statia's Botanical Garden.  Volunteers at the Statia Marine Park are busy analyzing the results of their fish population survey.  All good stuff keeping Statia a special place for all!

March 2005--Golden Rock Dive Center proudly announces its new status as a PADI National Geographic Dive Center.  The PADI National Geographic program offers a structured course designed to take you from being a diving tourist to an underwater explorer.   Want to feel comfortable and confident exploring one of the wrecks on Statia, the PADI National Geographic program can include wreck penetration in part of its curriculum.  The course can be done as an individual or as a team of friends or family.  Consider a course that will not only fine tune your buoyancy and assure you can navigate but will give you the tools to distinguish a juvenile stoplight parrot fish one in its terminal phase.  The PADI National Geographic program is setup to give you a new perspective on the underwater environment.  So instead of daydreaming as an armchair traveler, ask for your first assignment.  AND, Sea Saba Dive Center on Saba is also a National Geographic Dive Center so if you have a multi-island trip planned, you can do part of this course on one island finish it on the next!

February 2005--Wow!  Look what strange winter swells from the cold north can bring-- a beach!  When the islanders hear of a New York blizzard or a big cold front from the north, it's never certain how the island weather will be effected.  But swells from a northerly direction are common.  Thus far this winter, luckily the swells have come without wind so it just meant diving areas only accessible on a calm summer day. 

January 2005--Whether you're in Europe or the heartland of America, you can meet a Statia representative.  Glenn Faires of Golden Rock Dive Center will be at both the Utrecht Dive Show in Holland followed by the International Boot Show in Dusseldorf, Germany.  At the same time, Michele will be braving the snow of Chicago at Our World Underwater at the Rosemont Convention Center.

December 2004--The Old Gin House keeps improving.  Michele and Glenn now introduce their new chef:  Marc-Clovis Bertucci.  A graduate of the Johnson and Wales Culinary Institute, Marc brings great new ideas to Statia.  The Old Gin House now offers beachside, casual dining Mondays thru Thursdays with Marc showing off his gourmet delights on the weekends with finer cuisine in the main dining room.

November 2004--The best news on Statia in years!  The Old Gin House will now be managed by Glenn and Michele Faires, owners of Golden Rock Dive Center.  Always the icon of Statia with character, charm and ambience, The Old Gin House had some service problems. But with Glenn and Michelle in charge, fear no more!  Finally a hotel on Statia you can count on--stay tuned for more.

October 2004--Rozenne Le Scao, director of the Sea Turtle Monitoring Program reminds everyone that the monitoring and research program runs until the end of November.  The 2004 stats are thus far--nesting is still in progress but 30+ hatchlings are recorded so far!
 

September 2004--STENAPA, the islands conservation foundation, just received funding for new trucks.  The trucks are certain to go to good use as the foundation handles Sea Turtle Monitoring Project as well as the Miriam C. Schmidt Botanical Garden. 

August 2004--After just a year, the talk is that Statia is getting another ship to add to its wreck collection.  Stay tuned for details!

July 2004--The one-year anniversary of the sinking of the Charlie Brown is this month.  Contact me to find out what special activities are planned to commemorate the event. 

May 2004-Widecast is conducting their annual nightly turtle nesting count.  Statia is one of the few places remaining in the Caribbean for Leatherback turtle nesting sites; Leatherback turtles are an endangered species.  The research project is primarily conducted on Zeedlandia Bay, Statia's Atlantic side beach area of the island.  Guests can join the rangers for nightly participation.  Hawksbill, green and loggerheads can often times be seen on Statia.

April 2004-The secret is getting out!  Read about Statia and Saba in the May 2004 edition of Dive Training magazine--at the newstands now!

March 2004-Golden Rock Dive Center encounters two 30' humpback whales while diving Anchor Point!  Woohooo!!

February 2004-The Blue Bead Restaurant is under new management.  Great reviews--photos and more info about the new menu soon.

October 2003-Statia continues to "notch up"!  "Easy Goin'" is back from it's St. Maarten cosmetic retreat and ready to service Golden Rock's high season.  Now with ample shade, camera and gear storage, she can now bear the title "customized dive boat".  Glenn and Michelle proudly unveiled their promotional c.d. at the annual DEMA trade show.  Contact me for a free copy.  But careful, the photos and narration may convince you to visit this less discovered island real soon.

September 2003--It's the off-season--so time for island residents to visit their neighbors as the owners and take a break before the high season.  Saba's Brigadoon Restaurant and Sea Saba owners did just this.  An easy 8 minute flight and they were on a completely different island with different diving, a different culture and just a different feel to it.  Even the locals want to check out the latest on Statia.  Here's some pics from their recent dives.  Watch for pics later this week of Golden Rock Dive Center's M/V Easy Goin'.  This roomy catamaran will now have fully shaded areas, a super sturdy ladder and more.
 

August 2003--Divers report first marine life sightings on the new Charlie Brown wreck site.  Two lobster and schools of sergeant majors seem to be the first inhabitants.  "There's also a number of cleaning fish stations that look ready to host their first customers".  A dive site that is becoming more popular is "The Aquarium".  And very aptly named--recent divers report they saw absolutely everything but a shark.  A yellow frogfish, at least 6 stingrays that let you get really close, three turtles, a huge scorpion fish, spotted snake eel, numerous spotted morays and just tons of fish and critters.  Just up:  check out more new photos and the history of Charles L. Brown on Golden Rock's website. 
 

The Charlie Brown is now Statia's newest wreck; soon to be attracting marine life and divers! click on photos for larger versions--Photos courtesy of Scubaqua Dive Center--Thanks to Marco Maeder

August 2003--Glenn Faires, owner of Golden Rock Dive Center has taken their new catamaran "Easy Goin'" to St. Maarten for improvements.  The most obvious upgrade will be the bimini to provide divers shade to and from dive sites.  So stay tuned for more photos. For now, have a look at this nice, big comfortable boat to get you to Statia's dive sites!

July 24 '03  M/V Charles L. Brown, but the locals call it "The Charley Brown" is one of the Caribbean's largest wrecks and now the most recent.  After months of preparation, the ship slowly sunk on the Friday afternoon, July 24, '03.  Now resting in a sandy and slightly sloping area, the ship is at a 60˚ angle with the deeper part in just over 100', the shallowest, about 45'.  Be one of the first to dive this large vessel that is sure to attract great marine life. 

June 2003--A quick connection from St. Maarten brought me to the Caribbean's "Golden Rock".  "Bobby"  Golden Rock Dive Center's taxi driver met me at the airport and brought me to The Old Gin House.  The island of Statia is all about history so its so suiting to stay at this beautifully restored hotel.  Statia doesn't have high-rise hotels or franchised resorts but just a few choices of which TOGH is certainly the top choice.  Glenn of Golden Rock along with the owners of the other dive shops, the marine park and some oil terminal workers were busy getting The Charlie Brown for sinking.  My diving was done with the capable Lisa from Denmark and Mike, her other half, from Holland.  They caringly guided me on Double Wreck and Hangover.  The next morning I woke up early and walked the beach in front of my hotel and hoped for a blue bead.  Our first dive was to Bluebead Hole where if you're not lucky enough to find a bead (I did!  They say realistic chances are 1 in 4), it's also a great macro photography dive. 

Restaurants continue to improve on Statia.  A sure bet is always one of the 6 Chinese restaurants on the island.  I particularly enjoyed Sonny's which is just a bit of a walk in the main town.  The hangout place in the evenings for casual good food and drinks and often times a live band is at Smoke Alley, just down from the dive shops and TOGH, on the water.  I had a great burger there but they also specialize in fish, steaks and even some TexMex.  I introduced a Golden Marguerita to the new bartender so know that you can even get a proper smoother version.  Jan from Belgium is known as the island's finest chef.  He serves beautifully prepared, presented and tasting cuisine at TOGH.  Of course, it's a bit more expensive so most divers won't be dining there nightly but be sure to hold some space in your travel budget for a few excellent meals here.  The beach side restaurant is where TOGH serves lunches and dinners when it's the chef's night off. 

The 'beachside bar' at The Old Gin House is the perfect spot for a cold one apres diving.  There's now tables and lounge chairs on a man-made beach here so you can 'beach it' on the ocean, or sit pool side closer to your room with many shaded areas also provided.  I next boarded Winair for an easy 8 minute flight to Saba, a completely different experience.  A great combination dive trip--Statia and Saba!

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