Both sides of the island are great but both are very different. If you want quiet, good beaches and fine dining, I would choose a villa on or near Orient Beach on the French side. If you prefer good dining. good beaches and night life, then the Dutch side is the place to be. I would suggest renting a villa on Simpson Bay, Maho or Pelican Key on the Dutch side. We have stayed on both sides of the island and enjoyed our stays very much.