We are a group (family and extended family) that just returned from a 2-week stay at Villa Kalya in Orient Bay, and we had a brilliant time! We know St-Martin well, and like the Orient Bay area, so the location of the villa is perfect for those that like the advantages the French side of the island can offer.
We arrived at the property at 2 different times because of our arriving flights, but Clea, the hostess, took great care to meet our first arriving group, and then explained the key lock box. The property was scrupulously clean when we arrived, and the kitchen was very well stocked with the essentials. They even provided us a bottle of champagne and chocolates! Needless to say, the check-in process was brilliant, and check-out was equally smooth as Clea allowed us a few extra hours as our departing flight was delayed.
The photos in the listing really don't capture the uniqueness of the property - the top floor is entirely occupied by the master suite, with attached bathroom (tub and W/C), and this is very much like being in the crow's nest of a ship!
The main floor is the kitchen/living area, but the real jewel is the covered deck where we took all of our meals, and this covered deck essentially doubles the floor space for living and relaxing.
The ground floor is at pool level, and both bedrooms lead to the expansive pool deck. Both bedrooms have a shower/sink en-suite, but they share a W/C in the common area just outside the bedroom doors. This same area houses the washing machine (there is no dryer, but a drying rack that proved quite effective) as well as a small gym area.
Everything about Orient Bay is perfect for our group - minutes from an enormous Super U, excellent bakery, terrific restaurants - not to mention a huge, lively beach. Coupled with an excellent host that was always super available, this villa is an amazing find!
Regards
John