Definitely DIY in St. Maarten. Choose a resort that has both a restaurant and whose units have at least a kitchenette (frig, microwave, etc.) Then you have a choice as to eat in or out. We usually eat breakfast in, lunch at one of the dozens of great beach bars, and dinner at one of the many wonderful restaurants. We already have our list made for our end of February visit. A mixture of old favorites, and new, or previously untried, restaurants for dinner. And definitely rent a car. The island is great for exploring.