Shopping
Shopping
St. Maarten/St. Martin has been a duty free island since 1939. The duty free status of the island offers many possibilities for the visitors to the island. In addition, luxury items cost up to 50% less than in other countries, which is why many travelers and cruise ship visitors enjoy shopping for jewelry, fashion, cosmetics, leather, perfumes, crystal, electronics, liquors, cigars and more.
The following are the island’s main shopping areas.
Philipsburg
Front Street
Front Street is the main shopping area lined with about a mile of duty free, tax free shopping. It is a treasure chest overflowing with diamonds of every size, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, tanzanites and any other gemstone you can think of; pearls, engagement rings, wedding bands, gold, platinum and all of the world’s largest and most recognized watch brands. Do not forget the variety of electronic goods such as cameras, camcorders, laptops, PDAs and more in addition to designer brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Liz Claiborne, Coach, Furla and much more!
Old Street
Old Street, with is Creole style facades, offers some inspiring boutiques and is a pleasant stroll to explore the unique shops or indulge in some French delicacies or Belgian chocolates. You can take some great pictures here. And you can not miss the trip to Sint Rose Arcade and the Boardwalk for both your shopping and dining needs. The Boardwalk is located on Great Bay Beach and is scattered with a selection of restaurants. It is the perfect spot to take a break from your shopping spree and grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cool tropical cocktail while looking out over Great Bay.
Marigot
Who needs to go to Europe to shop when there is a selection of top European fashion located right in Marigot, the capital of the French side…The entire center of the Creole inspired town, the harbor and the Marina Royal are lovely shopping districts with a charming Caribbean flair, thanks to the old Creole style buildings. Enjoy bistro bars, sidewalk cafes, restaurants, delicatessens, French fashion & designer boutiques, a fine selection of jewelers, perfume stores, cigar stores and more. Stores are generally open from 9:00 or 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 or 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday.
The colorful Marigot Market located at Front de Mer (Port Road) offers a colorful open air local craft market for some authentic souvenirs, gifts and clothing. Located close to the craft market is Le West Indies shopping mall – air conditioned mall with high end items. And of course do not forget to go into the heart of Marigot to visit Rue du General de Gaulle and the exquisite little plaza marina, Marina Royale.
Maho
And much more…
In addition, there are more shops along Simpson Bay on the Dutch side and Orient Bay & Grand Case on the French side.
While on island, your rental specialist will be happy to assist with recommendations and suggestions based on what you are looking to buy.
Your source for Vacation Rentals
on St. Maarten/St. Martin Introducing IRE Vacations, a division of Island Real Estate Team, is now offering vacation rentals.
Contact our vacation rental specialist and it will be our pleasure to work closely with you to find the perfect vacation rental.
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