Have been going down for the last few years in Dec. and usually leave by the 25th or 26th. This year we arrive on the 11th and return on the 25th. Any where you go that falls between Xmas and NY is expensive. The rates for most places start to go up around the 18th and after that as stated most have a minimum 3 or 4 day requirement. This year we will spend the 1st 4 days at Karibuni then 5 days at L'Esplanade and the last 5 at Bleu Emeraude.
We spent our 1st xmas on the French side last year and found it to be easier to navigate and less traffic since we enjoy eating in Grand case and Orient and I do make reservations. Love watching the Xmas boat parade/show along with Xmas parade in Grand Case cant remember the exact dates but they were around the 22nd or 23rd. We were able to watch both without having to drive which is now why I personally prefer the French side over the Dutch. I think the traffic now is terrible no matter when you go from all the reports on here. I would still stay in Cupecoy as it is close to nice restaurants and easier to park but driving from there to Grand case is a nightmare even going to back way thru Carols favorite place Sandy Ground. I still work and Dec. is when I usually am not busy so it is the main reason why we go then instead of Jan. if you are retired like most posters on here and can go when you like you definitely have more options and when to travel.