Shopping on Saint Martin : Going out

Going out on Saint Martin : Shopping

Shopping

Saint Martin and its sister island, Saint Barthelemy both hold the status of free port, but be prepared that the exemption from VAT does not necessarily mean low prices. The island’s shopping facilities are as well known as its beaches or lively evenings: stores are numerous and well-equipped, and a day out shopping is sure to be one of your favourite pastimes. Cigarettes and alcohol are rather a good deal, their attractive price at wholesalers also accounts for their cheapness in bars. IT and electronic equipment are also a bargain, especially on the Dutch side, but it is best to look around several shops before investing a bigger sum.

Marigot and Philipsburg are the two most important shopping areas, with haute couture, luxury perfumes, electronic equipment and jewellery shops galore. Stores close at noon and after 6 pm. Philipsburg’s markets are dominated by the island’s Indian community. On the Dutch part, Maho Plazza is the most pleasant place to night-shop, with stores open until as late as 11 pm.

Prohibited goods
It is strictly forbidden to capture or kill endangered species of the flora and fauna, as well as products manufactured from species listed in enclosures 1 and 2 of the Washington convention. Furthermore, the detention of the following species is prohibited in the territories of the Northern Islands:

• Shellfish :

  Despite their widespread presence on souvenir stalls, helmet shells (Cypreacassis rufa) are rigorously protected and their import or export is forbidden, similarly to shellfish with an inferior size to that defined by the law of the 8 June, 1998, and the capture of corals, whether live or dead is also prohibited.

• Plants :

  Cacti and orchids.

• Animals :

  Turtles, parrots and iguanas cannot be taken out of the island without a relevant license. Remember: duty free objects or merchandise must also be declared while passing through customs.