We've stayed on both sides of the island over the years and to me the 'which side question' has never been terribly important. And when we purchased our timeshare weeks we chose a very quiet little corner on the Dutch side that allows us relatively easy access to BOTH sides of the island and all that we enjoy about the island.

We enjoy beaching on both sides so again, the 'which side to stay' question is really not very important to us. But we do enjoy a certain amount of night life so staying on the Dutch side works better since the drive to some of the more remote beaches during the day is easy, but driving around at night for many of the incredible dining spots - not so much. We're not really into the casinos but as a change of pace after dinner, they're fun, too, and they're only on the Dutch side.

It's really all about you and what you enjoy......over forty years of annual visits I can tell you absolutely - both sides are great and I doubt you would be disappointed on either one.

And for personal recommendations, if you're looking for a laid back resort atmosphere, IMHO, Grand Case Beach Club is awesome on the French side, and if you're more the independent type - the Beachside Villas are terrific, too. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />