I didnt buy any touristy crap during my recent two weeks. Repeat cruisers have already been sold all that stuff.

As for Jewelry, there are some good shops and maybe some good deals.

But as Warren Buffet says “if you dont know jewelry, know your jeweler”. I boughta gold and sapphire ring in Bangkok from the most reputable shop. Prong broke in short time, hard to return. I know the SXM shops are very good.

I used to see great deals on Seiko watches in St Thomas. Havent seen a great deal in awhile personally. And im not gonna pluck down X amount on the Omega I want only tonfind out something is amiss when back on the boat.

SXM is great and Cruises are great. The only downside about being a cruiser is you have to dress funny for hiking and swimming and shopping and maybe carry a backpack and cruise towel and you might be pretty white if on day 2 or 3 of cruise.

I never would have flown to SXM if it wasnt for a shore excursion that took us to Boo Boo Jam for a little beach time and lunch and a drink.

PS if the cruise line told me a port was unsafe and to stay onboard id want a partial refund. I find that hard to believe. I could see some goofy passengers spreading stuff but not the cruise lines. The shops, casinos are closed in port so cruise line wouldnt benefit.