Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Saba is a tiny island, about 13 square kilometers. The smallest of those associated with the Dutch Antilles, this is a Caribbean island of a different sort. For those seeking an island vacation that offers something other than the typical Caribbean experience, Saba is the place to be. This Dutch flavored volcanic island has a warm climate that allows for year round travel.
Saba is a breathtakingly beautiful place, a nature lovers paradise. While it does not have the pristine white sand beaches that make up the classic Caribbean vacation, it does offer some of the most fascinating underwater scenery in the Caribbean, featuring a wide variety of marine life and rock and reef formations.
The Saba Marine Park surrounds the entire island and serves to protect the spectacular coral reefs and marine environment. There are more than 25 diving and snorkeling areas, most of which are located on the islands western side, between the northern point of Diamond Rock and the southern Tent Bay.
The most popular places for snorkeling are Torrens Point and the nearby Wells Bay. From Wells Bay Beach, the renowned snorkel trail can be reached. This marked trail is in use from May through October and, with depths ranging from 90 feet to 1500 feet, is not for beginners.
There are three primary diving site types in Saba. These are coral reefs, fringing reefs and seamounts and pinnacles. The water temperatures are suitable for diving year round, with winter temperatures typically between 77 and 80 degrees and summer months often reaching highs of 85 degrees. In the towns around the main diving sites, there are plenty of instructors and guides available --for all levels of skill and expertise -- to help travelers make the most of their underwater experiences.
Saba offers plenty to do above the water as well. The hiking is superb, with mountains to climb and wilderness to explore. Mt. Scenery is a favorite hiking destination, with a clearly marked trail beginning just a short distance from the tourist office in Windwardside. From that point it takes about an hour and a half to reach the peak, traveling up the 1064 steps. Maskehorne Hill is a shorter hike, offering a fine wilderness view. On this journey, the hiker will travel through a forest to a small dasheen farm, enjoying the local flora and fauna.
For those interested in less athletic pursuits, there are several enchanting villages to wander and enjoy. The Dutch-style cottages with their red tile roofs and white picket fences, cobblestone streets and alleyways offer a multitude of joys C fragrant gardens, small shops, museums, galleries and restaurants. Saba villages are clean, peaceful and welcoming, the perfect place to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Dutch Antilles.
Windwardside is the largest of the villages, and is home to the Saba museum. The best shopping of the island is said to be in this town. The hand made lace, created here since the late 1800s, is one example of the fine local products available. Windwardside is also home to some fine eating establishments, ranging between the more formal and the more casual frequents of the locals.
At Willards of Saba, the some of the best dishes of the Philippines are served. The view is fabulous and the atmosphere perfect for a special night out. The Brigadoon is a seafood lovers delight, serving locally caught fish and having a live lobster tank for the freshest and tastiest meal possible. At Windwardsides Swinging Doors, Eddies casual country bar features his famous barbecue on Tuesday and Friday nights. On Sundays, Swinging Doors offers Cook Your Own Damn Steak night, allowing the diner to cook his own steak to his taste on an outside grill and providing all the right side dishes to go with it. Reasonable prices and a relaxed atmosphere make this restaurant an excellent stop after an active day.
The Gate House Caf, located in Hells Gate, is a fabulous formal dining experience. The menu is full of dishes created from original recipes and the freshest ingredients. The dining experience is enhanced by a fine wine list and some of the most interesting artwork to be found on the island. Reservations are the safest way to guarantee a table at this popular restaurant.
On the Crispeen Trail is the Rainforest Restaurant. Part of the Rendez-vous Econolodge, it can be reached by the hiking trail. Offering a unique dining experience, this restaurant has an organic garden on the premises, offering delectable and healthful cuisine.
Because of the comfortable climate, travel to Saba is enjoyable throughout the year. During the last part of July, the Saba Summer Festival is held, with a variety of activities of interest to tourist and local alike, including music, a calypso king contest, parades, food and fireworks. In the first part December, the island enjoys Saba Days. The activities surrounding this period of celebration include barbecues, sporting events, music and dancing.
Saba is so much more than the typical Caribbean experience, offering a different atmosphere and exciting experiences that will not be soon forgotten. Whether seeking an active, athletic adventure or peaceful, rejuvenating relaxation in one of the most naturally beautiful corners of the Caribbean, Saba is not to be missed.
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