Not sure I know what you mean about what more experienced visitors think of the french side. It has a slightly different feel than the Dutch side, but that's certainly not bad. Beautiful beaches, wonderful food, less nightlife.

Regarding Nettle Bay, Beerman did a great series of trip reports regarding his recent visit there. I don't have any personal experience with Nettle Bay,
other than going to the restaurant at Dreams.

Regarding Orient Bay, there are a ton of great condos for rent in the Orient Village area. If you post what places you might be interested in, someone here probably will know it or know of it.