SHOPPING: BEST BUYS
SHOPPING IN PHILIPSBURG
By Alita Singh
The capital of Dutch St. Maarten is a cornucopia of shopping delights. Its main streets — Front Street and Back Street — and their connecting alleyways and squares are dotted with boutiques and vendors offering all sorts of items.
With the island’s highest concentration of jewelry stores, Front Street could be called the “diamond district.” Stores are stocked with GIA-certified diamonds of all shapes, sizes, and clarity, as well as other high-end gems, designer jewelry, and watches.
You’ll also find bedazzling merchandise at stores like AMA Jewelers, Ballerina Jewelers, Caribbean Gems, Diamonds International, Joe’s Jewelry International, Ocean Jewelers, Oro Diamanté, Pavillion Jewellers, and Royal Caribbean Store.
Techies should head for the electronics powerhouse that is Boolchand’s. For 90 years, the store has been a fixture in St. Maarten with its ample stock of electronics, fine jewelry, watches, and footwear. Part of its portfolio is an exclusive Pandora store on Front Street, where you can get a custom-engraved St. Maarten charm to commemorate your time here.
You’ll also want to stop in at AMAsterdam, located in an alley off of Front Street. Take a selfie in an old Amsterdam trolley car and enjoy a beer after you’ve browsed among the Delft Blue island-specific ornaments and souvenirs.
The Dutch are known for their devotion to cheese, as you’ll see at Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store at Dock Maarten. The store carries a wide variety of cheeses from The Netherlands, including Gouda and Edam, along with wheels of cheeses flavored with chocolate, cumin, and spices.
If you’re mad for motorcycles, stop by Harley-Davidson St. Maarten in Bobby’s Marina. The store stocks bike parts and accessories at affordable prices.
Treat yourself to designer threads at JL Store. This is the go-to spot for Polo Ralph Lauren, Armani, Longchamp, and more.
Then get really into the island vibe at Pacific Avenue with outfits from Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, and Au Noir. And if you’re looking for a swimsuit, Endless Summer Swimwear has you covered. This boutique features a stylish collection of beachwear and resort wear from renowned designers for women, men, and children.
You also may want to peruse the spirits at International Liquor & Tobacco and The Captain’s Duty-Free Shop. Select a top-shelf rum to enjoy on island or back in your home bar.
Cost U Less carries a wide selection of goods at a great price. Shop for groceries, cocktail ingredients, and almost anything you may have forgotten to pack.