A Quick Guide To Saba
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Saba is an intriguing off-the-beaten path Caribbean island sprinkled with an authentic Dutch charm like you'll find nowhere else. Quaint, red-roofed cottages with green shutters are buried in the vast mountains that disappear into the foggy sky. A top choice for die-hard hikers and adventurous divers, Saba- they say is a magical kingdom, and with such unspoiled beauty, it clearly deserves its reputation.
WHERE TO STAY
The Queen's Garden Hotel in Saba is a resort tucked away in the mountains overlooking Windward Side. A peaceful hideaway, Queen's Garden offers an on-site spa, a fine-dining restaurant, a large pool and a gorgeous view of the towering misty mountains.
If you want a more laid-back, local vibe, book a room at Juliana's Hotel. Offering dive packages and accommodation for the budget-conscious as well as luxury Saban cottages, this hotel is a top choice for hikers and divers. If you want a secluded villas perched on the mountains, Haiku House can be rented through Michael & Albert from Saba Island Properties. With a gleaming infinity pool stretching over the mountainside and a chic, wooden interior, Haiku House is pure luxury.
WHAT TO DO
- Hike to the top of Mount Scenery
- Go deep sea diving
- Make some beads at Jo Beam Glass Blowing Studio
- Have a Saba Spice at Tropics Cafe
- Have lunch and a daytime cocktail at Strawberry Hill
- Try some Dutch dishes at Brigadoon
- Explore some of the other hiking trails
- Mingle with the locals at 'The Bottom'
WHAT TO EAT
For such a small island Saba has such a diverse food selection. From charming snack shacks to gourmet restaurants, you'll find some of the finest Dutch Caribbean cuisine as well as other international options. Grab a bite to eat at Island Flavours in Windward Side. You'll find local ingredients picked from the garden at this family-owned business. Try the mahi-mahi tacos, topped with freshly picked herbs. Sit down for a fine-dining experience at an old Saban cottage-turned-restaurant, Brigadoon and taste some Dutch Caribbean dishes like freshly caught lion fish. Tropics Cafe is also a great spot for a bite to eat, go for the red curry coconut shrimp with steamed rice tossed in Saba spice and served in a coconut.
WHAT TO BUY
- Glass souvenirs from Jo Beams Glass Blowing Studio
- A supply of Saba Spice
THINGS TO BRING
- Sunscreen and bug spray for hiking and days at sea.
- Proper footwear and hats. See above.
- A book to read and a camera to take photos of the scenery.
- Dive gear.
- Underwater camera.
DUTCH PHRASES TO KNOW
Most Sarans speak English but you may come across some Dutch locals.
hallohi -hello
goededaghello- gooday
goedeavond- good evening (used after 6pm)
k weet het niet- I don't know
waar zijn de toiletten, alsjeblieft?- where are the toilets, please? (familiar)
ik spreek een heel klein beetje Nederlands- I only speak very little Dutch
kan u dat alstublieft herhalen?- could you please repeat that?
ik versta het niet- I don't understand
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