Is Shopping really different on the french side?

[dunhill]

We are going to St. Martin in October and havn't been there in ten years. Is the shopping really any different from the Dutch side or what you normally see in St. Thomas?

Thanks

[gtaylor]

The Dutch side will offer most everything that you might find in St. Thomas, but with better pricing, in our opinion.

The French side offers some more high-end, Haute couture, etc. items, at what we consider a higher price because of the $ - Euro balance.

It certainly depends on what you are shopping for.

gary

[blue_water]

As gtaylor said St Maarten is similar to STT for shopping with many jewelry and t-shirt stores and some nicer ehops. St Martin doesn't have anything like Philipsburg, but you will find some nice shops in Marigot as well as some great eateries there. And of course there are many beach shops on Orient.
St Martin is more of a gastronomic and beach destination in our opinion, and Grand Case is the ultimate spot to stop for lunch (or dinner if you're lucky enough to be there overnight).

[LewesBeach]

Yes, Marigot has higher end boutiques, perfumeries, galleries, sidewalk cafes, etc - very chic, European and laid back. And that comes with higher prices. You wont find alot of t-shirt/junk stores here. Fewer tourists, as large ship don't dock here. We love it for the ambiance, but shop on the Dutch side for the prices. Wednesdays used to be market day- right in town by the water - nice for crafty things, spices, etc.

[39august]

"St. Martin doesn't have anything like Phillipsburg"?? What did you mean, Blue_Water? Phillipsburg is where the mainstream cruise ships dock at St. Martin.

[jcl410]

Originally Posted by 39august

"St. Martin doesn't have anything like Phillipsburg"?? What did you mean, Blue_Water? Phillipsburg is where the mainstream cruise ships dock at St. Martin.

I believe he is distinguishing the French side (Saint Martin) from the Dutch side (Saint [Sint] Maarten).

Aloha,

John

[gtaylor]

Originally Posted by jcl410

I believe he is distinguishing the French side (Saint Martin) from the Dutch side (Saint [Sint] Maarten).

Aloha,

John

Agreed, seems careful to distinguish between the two sides of the island. That's how I read it.

gary

[blue_water]

Originally Posted by 39august

"St. Martin doesn't have anything like Phillipsburg"?? What did you mean, Blue_Water? Phillipsburg is where the mainstream cruise ships dock at St. Martin.

Was that clarified for you 39? Gary mentioned the St Martin options a well...
Simple a matter of spelling, but two vastly different destinations and one of the most fun airports to land at.