We are considering a trip to St Maarten after many years of all-inclusives in Jamaica and Mexico. We are looking at hotels or rentals in Orient Bay, walking distance to Club O and restaurants. We do not want to rent a car for our entire stay, maybe one day for site seeing.
He are our questions;
Can anyone recommend a place to stay?
Are taxis expensive and available to take us to the Dutch side casinos restaurants. to and from the airport etc?
Is there American cell service in that area? (We have Verizon)
Any recommended websites besides this one and Trip Advisor?
Are the casinos similar to American ones?
Is there a rainy season?

Thanks

Tim and Di