Most of Dutch St. Maarten's shopping is concentrated along Front Street in Philipsburg. Boutiques stretch along the entire length of the street, and stylish arcades lead off in either direction. Prices are quoted in US dollars, saving shoppers the confusion of sorting out exchange rates. Jewelry is a perennial favorite for St. Maarten shoppers. The Front Street jewelers offer everything from loose diamonds and emeralds to original creations in gold and silver.
Many jewelers also sell exclusive Swiss watches.
Front Street also offers the best of 20th-century electronics, including televisions, CD players, cameras, and fax machines. Native arts and crafts are not lost among all the Euro-ware. The more popular offerings are West Indian hammocks, wood carvings, handmade jewelry, and bottles of local guavaberry liquor. Private galleries showcase the work of artists from all over the Netherlands Antilles. Shops on Front Street are open from 8 or 9 am until noon, and then again from 2 until 6 p.m. Some stores remain open during lunch as a convenience to visiting cruise ship passengers.