First, let me say our first stay at Silver Sands was in February 2000. Although it has been some time, we have kept up with the area.

Our stay was at The Orchid House and it was simply put.. ."Wonderful!!' The staff couldn't have been better, seeing to our every need, giving good advice and cooking the most delicious meals! The house was lovely and spacious!

Silver Sands Community is just that... a community, just like being at home. Several homes are spread out over the landscape and are varied in size, cost, and decor. It was fun to walk the little roads surrounding the community and see what all Silver Sands had to offer. Although we had been to the mysilversands.com web site quiet frequently and it was detailed and accurate... seeing was believing.

The beach is one of the most beautiful you have every seen... soft white sand and Caribbean blue water. There are chairs and little umbrella stands dotted along the beach to use. The beach bar and club house area were just the right size.

Fisherman's Beach, next door, was an interesting place to visit. We enjoyed watching the local vendors work their magic and had something to drink at Leroy's bar. It was like something out of a Hemingway novel. We did let all know (respectfully) we were not ready to purchase anything until the day before we left. After that, we were able to return several times and enjoy. Return we did, and made a point of buying a little something from each shop.

I cannot begin to say enough about Silver Sands or The Orchid House. It was the perfect 'laid back' vacation. We felt safe and pampered. We have stayed at an All Inclusive and enjoyed it very much, but it just couldn't compare to the feeling of being "home" at Silver Sands. We could dress how we wanted, eat when & what we wanted and not feel as if we were on anyone's time schedule but our own.

Cost compared about the same. That all depends on the All Inclusive, as well as the Villa you choose. For us, it worked out about the same.

As far as food, it is up to you. What you eat, how much you spend and when you eat is your choice. We had a fairly large breakfast every day, sandwiches for lunch and a big dinner (complete w/dessert) every night. Talk your likes, dislikes and budget, with the Staff at your particular Villa. The will do things 'your' way. They work hard to ensure your stay is just as expected... remember, it is their livlihood at stake.

If you're in the market for excitement and entertainment... don't go to Silver Sands. It has enough to do (swim, relax, lay on the beach & listen to the sound of the sea, eat great food, relax, snorkel, kayak, fish, relax, etc. Did I mention relax??) and a small amount of entertainment from the Beach Bar area. It is not a mega resort - it is a community, where you feel safe and content.

Highly recommended for families with kids who know how to entertain themselves. Also, couples, groups,Weddings, and Honeymooners. It's also great for singles who aren't into the big bar scene and enjoy doing their own thing. That doesn't mean you can't have a good time - a little Rum  or a little Red Stripe is a good thing - but crazy crowds just aren't your thing.

Although we wanted to return before now, I am happy to say we'll be returning to Silver Sands this June (2011). This time, we'll be taking two of our grandsons with us (14 & 17) and they can hardly wait! We'll be staying at Blue Vista Villa. It is no way a reflection on The Orchid House... I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND it!! We just wanted to try another Villa and Blue Vista was our choice. As soon as we get back (in June) I will give a trip review for Blue Vista Villa. We can hardly wait to return!

By Charlotte Watkins (February 2011; Ohio, USA)