St Maarten’s cuisine is as varied as its history, combining Creole, Dutch, English, French and, more recently, international influences. Seafood is, of course, a speciality. Duty on alcohol (and other goods) is low and prices in St Maarten are as cheap as duty-free havens elsewhere. Most well-known brands are available.
Tipping: Hotel bills always include a government tax of 5 per cent and often a service charge of 10 to 15 per cent. Elsewhere, 10 to 15 per cent is acceptable for doormen, waiters and bar staff.

Many of the restaurants and bars have live entertainment and dancing until the early hours. All the large hotels have casinos.

There is a good range of high-quality duty-free shopping available in Philipsburg. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1400-1800.