Shopping is great throughout the island thanks to its duty-free status, but the best bargains on jewelry, china, electronics and more are found on Front Street in Philipsburg (found on the Dutch side). Should browsing turn to buying, make the Guavaberry Emporium – and its primo-potent liqueur – your first stop and purchase. Head over to Front Street's eastern end and the glittering slot machines of the Coliseum Princess Casino if you still have money to burn.

Travelers recount that shopping on Front Street can be intensely crowded, especially when a cruise ship is docked. You can temper the experience with some window-shopping on Back Street or a dip in the Great Bay, both of which run parallel to Front Street.