Wow, that's interesting re St. Barts. I personally have not really experienced much of a problem with tipping in St. Martin.
I remember the time a few years back we ate at the old Bikini Beach in Orient and forgot to leave a tip before I knew about it usually built into menu prices. Waitress tracked me down at my lounge chair and rudely demanded a tip. I was so shocked and speechless I gave her some green and an apology. Never again.
