Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Saba (say-bah)

Saba Flag


"Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean"


Why visit Saba?
Ideal for the outdoor enthusiast seeking a slower pace in charming small inns, dramatic views, hiking, mountains, rain forest, relaxation, seclusion, snorkeling, tranquility, tropical plants, and wildlife. In addition, participating with local crafts such as canvas painting, cooking, glass art, jewelry making, Saba lace, and tie-dying. 


At a Glance
  • Souvenirs to Buy: Handmade tropical wear, lace, rag dolls, rum, silk screen fabrics, spices, tropical clothing, and watercolor artwork.

History
  • In 1632, the first Europeans came to the island following a reef shipwreck.
  • In 1816, became apart of The Netherlands.
  • During 1900, Saban men were renowned sailors wanted for Dutch oil fields of Venezuela.
  • Before 1940, Dutch engineers claimed the terrain would be impossible to build roads.
  • By 1943, the first road was built about three-quarters of a mile to The Bottom.
  • In 1947, the first motor vehicle arrived.
  • In 1959, the first aircraft landed.
  • In 1963, the road stretch was completed.
  • In 1972, Fort Bay pier was completed.
  • In 1987,  Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF) was established.
  • In 1992, Saba University School of Medicine was established.
  • In 2010, became a special municipality of The Netherlands.

Fun Facts
  • Known to a former sanctuary for pirates and their families. Pirate, Hiram Beakes said, "dead men tell no tales".
  • Zion's Hill was formerly called Hell's Gate. Its name changed after several complaints from the church.

Special Holidays/Occasions
  • Annual Events: (September) Culinary Week, Sunset Hike, (October) Arts & Crafts Market, Sea & Learn, (November) Anniversary of Captain Leo, Bizzy B 5K Race, Lobster Fest, Pride Week, (December) Saba Weekend & Wahoo Food Fest.
  • Holidays: New Years Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Kings Day, Labour Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday, Carnival Monday, Saba Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Good to Know
  • Daylight savings time not observed.
  • Island has no beaches, fast food chains. or traffic lights.
  • Has 1 gas station, 1 road, 3 jail cells, 4 street sweepers, and 4 towns.
  • Roads are very narrow, steep, and winding. 
  • Ferry Service connects to Sint Maartin and St Barts. Anticipate choppy waters.
  • Given the underwater tower depth of volcanic rock starting at 300 ft down and rise to about 85 feet beneath surface; deep dives are possible. The Saba Conservation Foundation also operates a hyperbaric chamber in the event of any emergency.
  • Rough ocean waters makes it not conducive for beginner snorkelers.
  • Mandated by Saba Law, the charming gingerbread-style houses must be painted white with red, sloping roofs and green shutters. 
  • Dinner service tends to be between 7PM - 10PM.
  • Lacks sandy beaches.
  • Hitchhiking is common.
  • Due to frequent falling rocks avoid the temptation to swim at Wells Bay. 
  • Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur.
  • Prevalent Diseases: Dengue & Zika.
  • Medical care does not meet our western standards.

This international destination requires:
  • A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.
  • Tourist VISA not required for visits under 180 days.

                                                                    Hurricane Season is from June - November.

  • Coolest Season: December - February
  • Humid & Hottest: July - October
  • Peak Season: December - April

Your Must-See & Do
  • Historical Sites: The Ladder & Mary’s Point
  • Museums: Dutch Museum Saba, Harry L. Johnson Museum, Maj Osmar Simmons Museum, & Saba Heritage Center
  • Popular Attractions: Crispin Trail, Elfin Forest, Fort Bay, Ladder Bay, Mount Scenery, Sabab National Marine Park, The Bottom, The Gap, Windwardside, & Zion Hill


My industry designation earned as a Caribbean Specialist combined with our local connections with Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Villa Rental Companies, Adventure Travel providers and Limo companies will offer you Exclusive Benefits that you won't be able to achieve on your own. Such as: Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily, Dining or Resort Credit, Spa Treatment, Airport Transfer, or other privileges. Even Room Upgrades, Early Check-In and Late Check-Out when available. 



Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet TravelYour one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals


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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice. 

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