We have always booked our flights first and have never had difficulty finding a place to stay. We enjoy going when the urge hits us, not being locked into certain weeks, and trying different resorts. Each to their own, of course, and everyone is different. What I never understood about timeshares is why anyone would want to take a chance on what 'might' happen 10, 15, 20 years down the road with any resort, especially in St. Maarten, where there is little protection. Like those folks who bought at Pelican thinking they had a great view of the water, only to have huge new buildings go up in front of them. That, plus the often ridiculous maintenance fees. We have always gotten good deals on places to stay without the hassle and worry of what might come. But, as I said, each to their own. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

Ed