It’s been a rocky road for the Sonesta Maho in Sint Maarten, but they have once again announced a re-opening date.
In September 2017, the all-inclusive island resort was gutted to its shell by Hurricane Irma. While this was unfortunate for guests and staff, it gave the hotel group an opportunity to rebuild a brand new, modern facility. After several setbacks, Sonesta Maho re-opened via a soft launch in early 2019. Even then, things were shaky, as there were still many teething problems up to the point when I last stayed there in May 2019 (the review which can be read here).
Just as the resort started ironing out its issues, the COVID-19 pandemic came to be in early 2020, forcing many hotels to close due to heightened safety restrictions and border closures.
With borders restrictions being lifted in Sint Maarten, the adult-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort next door was able to re-open its doors in early August due to the smaller size of the property, but the Maho still remained closed as more preparation was required.
They have now confirmed that the Sonesta Maho will re-open on October 29, 2020, and will kick off the welcoming party with a number of discounted rates.
In keeping with the island’s health and safety policies, the resort requires that guests show proof of a negative COVID-19 result on tests done up to 5 days (120 hours) before arrival.
While the re-opening rates are about $10-20 more expensive than around the time I booked post-Irma, the resort is trying to sweeten the deal by offering $120 in hotel credit which can be used for other premium services that are usually not covered under the all-inclusive price bracket.
“In order to help offset the cost of COVID testing required for traveling to Sint Maarten, we offer up to $120 USD in resort credit. While the resorts are all-inclusive, with all meals, drinks, scheduled resort activities and other extras included, the resort credit can be used for spa treatments, room upgrades and premium bottles of wine. The offer is available for travel now through December 23, 2020, with potential plans for extension based on government regulations, and based on a minimum stay of three nights.”
Like with many other hotels and resorts, guests will be subjected to a number of safely protocols which they will need to abide by. For instance, guests can now self check in via mobile stations to limit interactions with front desk staff. Guests will also received their welcome package in a sealed kit, and are encouraged to use the hotel’s mobile app to stay updated on policy and safety changes.
Just as before, guests will be given RFID wrist bands which can be used to open their hotel doors as well as confirm their current status when accessing various parts of the facility. The full run down is documented here.
[Featured Photo: Sonesta Maho Beach Resort]