Carls Unique Inn

Getting up to the inn with luggage was a challenge: it's on the building's second floor, up two steep flights of stairs. Parking was a mess, with water and mud-filled potholes, and a spot beside the building was only there if you got lucky. The website photos were very misleading. Our room was somewhat clean, but bugs came in through the gap under the door. They did provide free breakfast, a sandwich, a Danish, and juice or coffee.

The bakery downstairs serves generous portions, and the pastries were fantastic. I especially recommend the coconut/pineapple cake. Breakfast comes as a voucher for the bakery. The room felt almost like home and was spacious, with a sink, microwave, fridge, TV, air conditioning, and a nice bathroom. Housekeeping came every day. I really enjoyed my stay and plan to make this my go-to hotel when I visit Saint Martin.

Kenrick greeted us at check-in and was friendly, with helpful restaurant suggestions. The room was a good size for two full beds and super clean, much cleaner than the last hotel I stayed at in the US. At first, the location in what seemed like an industrial area made my American sensibilities think we were in for a bad experience, but I was completely wrong. I'd stay here again and encourage you to stay if you're in Sint Maarten.

The studios are huge, even for just one person, and the location is very convenient. It's a lovely, safe place. There's a Dutch espresso machine with as many pods as you need, plus a breakfast voucher for the bakery downstairs, which is a huge plus.