Attention shoppers: Everything’s on sale in St. Maarten/St. Martin. This Dutch-French Caribbean island has been a duty-free port for decades. That means you’ll find deep discounts on quality imports – and credit cards are welcomed everywhere.

High-end shops line Front Street and Back Street, the main thoroughfares in Dutch Philipsburg. Here and in connecting alleys you’ll find jewelry, electronics, clothing and everything in between. This is the best place in the Caribbean to get certified diamonds and gemstones, loose or showcased in one-of-a-kind settings.

Many of the latest models in electronics, moreover, often are released here first – everything from phones and cameras to laptops and home entertainment systems.

In French Marigot boutiques, including many well-known French brand names, are scattered around Rue Charles de Gaulle, Le West Indies Mall and Marina Royale. Look for fashions right off the runway, and don’t forget imported perfumes, liquors and gourmet foods.

Local goods as well are sure to please family and friends, especially if they’re made on island. Bring back arts and crafts or bottles of local rum and guavaberry liqueur.

Oh, and there’s one more item you may want to add to your shopping list: an extra suitcase to carry home the treasures you’ve discovered.