What are the 'real bargains' in St. Maarten?

[MSWint]

What should we be looking for in St. Maarten to get a great deal in comparison to prices in the U.S.? Is there anything in particular that we should not pass up?

I'm guessing that haggling is all part of the game, but give me your tips, things to look for, ideas to get the best deal possible for things that we just can't find in the U.S. ... or absolutely can not miss out on in St. Maarten.

Thanks!!

 

[logan1_2000]

Two stores owned by the same family, Trident and Shivas, one on each side of Front Street (so that they do not miss any shoppers who only have time for one side of the street), does not advertise in flyers on on the cruise ships. they have long established repeat business largely from the island's time share and vacation home owners, the type of people they are going to see again so they can't rip you off. We spent a week on the island and were referred to them for fine jewelry, platinum settings, diamonds, by folks who have been customers there for years. I went to the work room to observe a diamond being reset. They will ship on approval to you in the united states if you have custom work done, and if you dont like you can ship it back, no charge processed. I have bought from them while on the island, as a follow up, on subsequent cruise visits, and just plain by email and phone from my home in ATL. Excellent quality and much lower prices compared to U.S.

 

[callahanjulie10]

We always buy new beach towels for $4 or $5 since we have a pool and live on the beach, little souvies for everyone since they are cheapest on St Maarten, always LIQUOR! The cheapest anywhere we have ever been. I bought a Skagen watch last year and DH always get sunglasses. These are the same price as in the US- just no sales tax. We love St Maarten for all these deals and the nice people.

 

[MSWint]

Thanks callahanjulie10 and logan1_2000 ... definately gonna stock up on the rum!

Bumping for more info.

 

[MSWint]

Just bumping to get this one back on the first page.

Thanks!!

 

[Figaro57]

Bailey's Irish Cream goes for about $13.00 a litre. That is cheap!

 

[Niagara2]

Of all the islands we have been on St. Maarten is the best for shopping. From Beach wraps and bags to fine jewelry. We have purchased from Sam at Kays Fine Jewelry for years and he can really give you a great deal. I have items appraised for three times the price paid here in the US> Tell Sam that Doreen from Niagara Falls sent you. He will really help you out.
Also bought a Rolex. There are two dealers in town. They say 15 percent off US price plus no tax. Go to both, they will give you a bit more off. As far as I know you cannot get a better price in the US.
Some trips I have bought great jewels that will be handed down for generations and other just stuff but always do best there.

 

[tecdavidt]

St. Maarten is the best shopping port as far as I am concerned. We also bought a rolex and we saved a lot according to our local dealer who appraised the watch for us. I have bought several jewelry pieces. I also have had great bargains in Aruba so I would have to say it is the Dutch islands that have the best over all shopping. I am glad we are going back March '06. Kathy