I think there is a huge qualitative difference between a "peaceful demonstration" and a demonstration, however peaceful, that prevents someone from being able to get to their accomodation for several hours, when they have NO idea whether they will be able to get to their hotel or not, and or/causes someone to miss their cruise ship. I sincerely hope that no one missed their ship today because of this incident. For an economy that depends solely on tourism, this is a horrible black mark. For people living on island, a 'temporary inconvenience' for a day is aggravating. For a tourist who saves up for a week long vacation for an entire year, it equates to a reason not to return.

There are already enough reasons for tourists to be wary about going to ST. Martin, from crime concerns to the Euro (not nearly as big a deal recently, agreed), to seaweed, etc. Don't give people more reasons not to come to St. Martin/St. Maarten. It's just not wise.