Debating between Westin Grand Cayman or Westin St. Maarten for vacation-me, my wife , and teenage daughter?

Question

Debating between Westin Grand Cayman or Westin St. Maarten for vacation-me, my wife , and teenage daughter?

Answer 1

Hi -

I stayed at the Westin Grand Cayman a few years ago and visited St. Martin (though not the Westin there) last summer.

The Westin GC is a very nice hotel on a world class, white sand beach (7 mile). We had a small balcony, facing the lush landscaping, small pool, and the ocean beyond. Room was very nice (classic Westin, Heavenly Bed, etc). Bathroom good sized. And every night, turn down service delivered Tortuga Rum cakes! If what  you all want to do is sit/stroll a very nice beach and maybe do a snorkel/dive expedition or two,  then Grand Cayman is a great pick. The restaurants around the island are OK to good (typical of much of the Caribbean,  a bit pricey, slightly overwrought food) with some British fish & chip-type pubs and American fast food (Wendys, pizza). The island is small, flat - not much to see but snorkeling is excellent right from shore. And a visit to h**l or boat to Sting Ray city can occupy an afternoon. Everything is very organized and well-run. Not much like other places which run on "island time," more like Florida. I preferred St. Martin (we stayed on Orient Beach - near Grand Case on the French Side) though we will definitely return to Cayman, as well. Most of the reason I preferred St Martin was because the food was uniformly excellent... Even the shops offer great wine, fresh breads, great cheese.... There is a more European vibe and it seems, frankly, a little more exotic - which, I think, is part of the fun of a vacation. The island is hilly with more diversions and a variety of beaches (if you have a car). Also, daytrips by ferry are easily arranged to Anguilla or St. Barths (and another island that we didn't visit - can't think of it right now!)... I am sure you will have a lovely time whichever you choose.

Answer 2

CAYMAN!