Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
draws visitors. Duty-free stores line the busy streets, and pe-
destrians can spend an entire day browsing in this commercial
center.
C
ameras, electronic goods, perfumes, and fine jew-
elry are especially good buys.
Festivals
The biggest event on each side of the island is
Carnival.
On the
Dutch side, Carnival occurs after Easter and continues until
April 30, the birthday of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. The
festival includes traditional Caribbean jump ups, parades and
gatherings filled with island dishes, and music. The Grand Car-
nival Parade is the festival's biggest event, a colorful scene with
elaborate costumes and a contagious spirit of fun.
And for early risers (or real night owls) there's the J'Ouvert
(jou-vay) Morning Jump Up Parade. This festivity starts at four
in the morning and continues until sunrise. Carnival's end is
marked with the burning of King Momo, a straw figure who
“rules” Carnival. When King Momo is burned, legend says that
the island is left pure.
On the French side, Carnival is scheduled just before Shrove
Tuesday, ending on Ash Wednesday.
Sweet Dreams
Price Chart
Rates reflect high winter season (expect
prices to be as much as 40% lower during the
off season) for a standard room for two
adults for one night; prices in US dollars.
$.........................under $150
$$ .............between $150 and $300
$$$ ............between $300 and $450
$$$$ .......................over $450
Search WWH ::
Custom Search