Just back from the 5/3 Magic Eastern. Our second trip to St Maarten.
This time we rented a car and drove around the island so we could see Orient beach and spend more time in Marigot than we did on the bus tour last time. Had lunch at a nice French restaurant and explored a little more this time.
I prefer Marigot over Philipsburg. Marigot is slower paced since they do not see as many cruise customers and more of the vacationers. They have many designer shops, jewelry shops, and perfume / cosmetic shops. Some of the same jewelry shops are in Philipsburg. Marigot is less touristy, more restaurants, and very pretty with the harbor.
Philipsburg has the usual Carribean shops and of course Del Sol T-shirts ( a must) and the original Guava Berry Liquor shop.
Some people have said they do not like being bothered by the hawkers in Philipsburg trying to get you in the shops but I have found if you say politely "no thanks" then they will leave you alone.
Hope this helps.