Just returned from my visit to Saba

[SunDevilDoc]

Last week I went to Saba to check everything out and get a preview for May. Because I had already done a lot of research I had a good idea of what to expect. After spending two days on St. Maarten I took the flight over (awesome landing!) and spent Friday and Saturday there. Laura gave me a tour and answered questions. I sat in on the Histo lecture and then did the Anatomy lab in the afternoon.

I spent time with Dave, Chris & his wife, doing some hiking and hanging out. Really cool people, clean island. I'm really glad I chose Saba! I look forward to getting down there and getting started.

I just thought I would share my experience with those of you considering Saba or those accepted but that have not been to the island yet.

[thedirtychemist]

Sounds like you enjoyed yourself!

My wife and I are planning on visiting on March 11ish. We are planning on staying for 3 to 4 days.

How did you go about setting up tours with Laura and sitting in on classes?

Would you mind giving us more info on which hotel you stayed at and maybe an estimate on the cost?

Thanks!

[SunDevilDoc]

Even if you are already sure you are going to attend Saba, I think it is nice to visit the island beforehand, if you are able.

The only hotel I am familiar with is the one I stayed at. The Gate House (http://www.sabagatehouse.com/) is in Lower Hell's Gate and I paid $121 per night. It's a very nice, clean place. Michel and Lyliane are the French owners, very warm and welcoming, and serve incredible food. None of these little "continental breakfasts" - order anything you want, it's (breakfast) included. Great view from the room as well. I took a taxi from the airport. The driver waited while I dropped my stuff off and then took me to the campus in The Bottom.

If you are spending 3-4 days on the island, I hope you are SCUBA-certified or love to do lots of hiking. You can get to know the whole island pretty well in that time. To schedule a tour with Laura, you might want to try emailing her at housing@saba.edu. Personally, I tried calling down to the campus and had trouble that day so I called the Gardner office and they communicated with Laura to set it up. Just tell her you'd like to sit in on a class. I think histology starts at 11:00ish. There were 4-5 empty seats, so I don't think you'll have a problem.

The thing that made my trip great was finding someone on the island to hang out with in advance. I'd try to have your trip/tour include a Friday. During the breaks just talk to some people. You might ask around and see if anyone is getting together Friday night or Saturday sometime. I found everyone to be really friendly and approachable.

I am really glad I choose to arrive on Saba by air for the first time. Great experience. Book it at http://www.fly-winair.com.

Lunch at Tropics (Windwardside, I believe) was good.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

[SunDevilDoc]

One other thing...if you are flexibe in your travel date, find out when the students have their Tuesday block exams. Schedule your trip for after that Tuesday. Arriving the weekend prior an exam might make your socializing opportunities a little thin.

[thedirtychemist]

Sounds good! Thanks for your advice. Now all I have to do is scrape up some money to be able to afford a leisurely visit. hehehe...

If we're not able to visit, I suppose I'll take everyone elses good reviews and trust it.

Did you take any pictures? Care to share?

[miasma]

hey thanks for the preview. i start sept, but won't have time to visit the island, but i'll take your word for it. i pretty much know what to expect anyway.

[SunDevilDoc]

Yes, I have pictures, but they aren't posted anywhere. If you PM me your email address, I'd be happy to send them on.