Raleigh,

I started to say this yesterday and held back at the risk of seeming controversial but what the heck - why let a little political correctness get in the way.

We came to this island 43 years ago and our first stay was on the Dutch side of the island. But we visited and explored the French side freely, fast learning that beyond a few great restaurants and nice beaches, it didn't hold much of interest for us. But still, we kept enjoying it and with each year and each trip that passes, and with only one of them lodging on the French side of the island, we are still open to exploring it while lodging still on the Dutch side.

Those who say there is no charm or they'd rather stay home than visit EITHER side over the other are, IMO, missing out big time. There is much to explore and enjoy on both sides and while I'll readily admit, the over construction of the Dutch side wouldn't have been my plan for it, it is what it is, just as so very many areas on the French side are equally seedy and grungy in my eyes. But along with the over development and the seedy and grungy, if you take the time to explore BOTH sides, there really are equally incredible and enjoyable aspects to each.

The last few remnants of the gingerbread architecture need to be seen before it all rots away and is replaced with more concrete and glass, as do some of the more tucked away beach spots that so many will miss by limiting themselves to only one spot.

There was a time when people ONLY dined on the French side because that's where the 'really good restaurants' were but those days are done, too. Some if the best restaurants on the island are now to be found on the Dutch side and more are relocating there every day.

I'm not condemning or criticizing and I'm sure not saying either side is better or worse, but after 43 years and probably sixty plus stays, I still find something new on each side with every trip and wouldn't miss our island-wide travels for the world and I'd strongly advocate everyone should get out and explore ALL this island has to offer. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />