As I write this post, I’m currently sitting on a beach in Hervey Bay, Australia, which is about 3.5 hours north of Brisbane. I’m on a 3-month trip that will take me to a few more places in Australia, New Zealand, Bali and China. But first, back to the Caribbean.
I had the opportunity to visit a few Caribbean islands in October 2013 when I photographed a destination wedding on the tiny island of Nevis. On this trip, we gained a true appreciation of “island time” and learned how to “lime”. Everything slows down in the hot and sticky climate. We visited St Maarten, St Kitts & Nevis and the teeny, tiny island of Saba. Of the three, Saba was definitely our favourite.
Why did we visit Saba of all the islands there are? Well, one, we were short on time and two, I was flipping through the Lonely Planet guidebook and the descriptions of Saba were simply too charming and hilarious. I mean, why wouldn’t you want to visit an island where there is only one road and is called “The Road”, with a village called “The Bottom” and an old sea port which can only be accessed with a series of stairs called “The Stairs”? :) You see my point.
Unlike most Caribbean islands, Saba is a mountainous island that actually doesn’t have a natural beach. But what it lacks in beaches, it more than makes up for in the stunning scenery with lush tropical plants, magnificent Mount Scenery, and sea views from almost anywhere on the island.
Getting there: Winair connects you from the St Maarten airport; the flight only takes about 20 minutes over azure Caribbean waters. Having flown with a small aircraft, I can finally see why some love to fly. You will land on one of the shortest commercial runways in the world, after thinking that you are about to fly into the side of the mountain. That experience alone is well worth the visit.
Sleeping: We stayed at The Cottage Club in the village of Windwardside (so named because it’s very windy there) and loved it. Ask for cottage #1 or #2 for the best views in my opinion.
Eating: There are quite a few amazing restaurants on such a tiny island. We had dinner one night at The Brigadoon and the meal was both delicious and did not break the bank. Killer martinis here are a plus.
Activities: Hikers will love a number of stunning hikes available and if you like water activities, the diving here is supposed to be amazing as well. Or you can just relax by your hotel pool, taking in the gorgeous views and ocean breeze.
Instead of a more traditional destination in the Caribbean, consider unspoiled and tranquil Saba! :)
