Ile Sainte-Marie and its sister isle, Ile Aux Nattes, unveiled themselves as captivating tropical sanctuaries renowned for warm waters, scenic beauty, and undisturbed serenity. The landscape unfolded with swaying coconut palms, ivory-white sandy beaches, and tropical fish gliding beneath the tranquil azure waters. It was a manifestation of island time, a rhythm we would gradually attune ourselves to, as the travel brochures wisely cautioned.