In just my first week in Sint Maarten, I have gained new friends, knowledge, and amazing memories. It has been so, so busy, but the tiredness is worth all of the beautiful sights and fun experiences we have shared this week.

We focused on exploring the island and learning about what Sint Maarten has to offer so that we are able to better create a campaign for our client, Sapphire Beach Club Resort. 

Our client also happens to be the resort we are staying at for the month. The staff are more welcoming and helpful than I could have imagined. From the moment we arrived from the airport, they have ensured that we’re doing good and don’t need anything.

On our first day, we took a bus around the island and our tour guide, Sharella, showed us around, making a few short stops and giving recommendations on where to visit. We looked around Marigot, fed iguanas, and ate at a restaurant with a view of planes arriving right above Maho beach. This was an amazing preview of what this month has in store for us.

Tuesday was our first day of class where we got an introduction to the courses we will be taking. I’m looking forward to learning more about social media analytics and international public relations!! After class, we went to Mullet Bay, the most beautiful beach that is just a short walk from our resort. 

On Wednesday, we went on a catamaran that took us around the island. It was so cool to be out in the water and so much fun when we stopped to jump off the boat and swim. We also swam from the boat to the restaurant where we ate lunch! It was such a great day getting to know each other and the island better. 

Thursday was a much needed relaxing day by the pool after class. At night, we all got dressed up for dinner and took pictures by the beach at our resort. It’s always fun to spend time with the whole group. We went to Naruto, a sushi restaurant, and it was so good! I’m usually a picky eater but it has been easy for me to find foods that I enjoy here so far.

In class on Friday, we finished up our secondary research on our client and the island. We spent another day by the pool and then went to dinner at Jax Steakhouse, which was my favorite meal so far. We also celebrated two birthdays this weekend!

On Saturday, we went back to the beach at our resort. Although it is small, it is beyond gorgeous and we’re lucky to have it so close to us!

This first week has been filled with meeting new people, trying new things, and making the most of my time here. I’m so grateful to be in this amazing place, surrounded by the best people. It already feels like time is moving so fast, but I can’t wait for these next three weeks!