SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Massachusetts-based travel writer Jeff Berger recently conducted an online survey in his “Everything SXM Facebook Group: designed to identify visitors’ main concerns about St. Maarten.

The survey was launched just a day before the dramatic “smash & grab” robbery of a Maho jewelry store in December and its results reflect rapidly accelerating visitor concern with crime, traffic congestion, inadequate Dutch side road repairs, and other issues.

99% of respondents were stayover tourists (92%) and xPats (7%), who spend more time on the island patronizing Dutch side businesses than any other single tourist group.

Details on the concerns discussed by tourists are below.

Key survey results: --Crime was the number one concern of all stayover visitors: 28% of all respondents highlighted it. Among visitor comments: “The Island needs a much greater police presence or it’s going to lose a great deal of tourism and cause for concern by the locals. Our rental car was stolen at gunpoint at 7:00 pm in Simpson Bay in November. Do we return after going for many years, twice a year? I know of many islands that would love to have the money we have spent over the years on what was once ‘My Island’.” -Randy.

Crime is “the one that’s going kill the tourism if not quickly solved.” -Phil. “Put in a couple of traffic lights where absolutely needed especially heading to Phillipsburg… We just missed the jewelry heist in Maho by 10 minutes eating at [a nearby restaurant].

These issues have stopped us from buying here. Drove around the island and could not believe how sketchy the French side is. Also do not feel as safe on the Dutch side at night.” -Valerie.

Major, continuous traffic congestion (23%) combined with inadequate roads and road repairs (12%), were cited by a total of 35% of all stayover visitors, who spend more time stuck in traffic and dealing with inadequate, poorly repaired roads than any other tourist segment.

“The biggest current problem is traffic congestion. That said it relates to the same issue as GEBE lack of infrastructure planning as the island ‘expands’. 20 years ago, I could drive the whole island perimeter at any time of day outside of around 3pm in 50 minutes or less. The causeway bridge took care of even a bunch of that 3pm stuff at the time. The roads haven’t changed; the potholes haven’t changed; but the traffic has probably tripled since then.” – Trent.

Following are all of the “concerns” (developed in part with cooperation from some people who have been part of the Dutch side government) addressed by this survey:

QUESTION: What in your opinion as a visitor (or as an expat) are the most pressing issues currently affecting SXM and your continuing interest in visiting the island? You can select more than one.

ANSWERS (People select which items they prefer and leave comments in our Facebook group for each specific question):

CRIME: It appears to be increasing and so far, police have not been able to stop it. (Make suggestions in COMMENTS.)

TRAFFIC CONGESTION: It continues to worsen, despite many perfectly valid suggestions being made by many people. (Make suggestions in COMMENTS, and tell us how many hours you waste in traffic during every visit.)

ROAD CONDITIONS / POTHOLE REPAIRS: Repairs take forever to happen and then many don’t last. Repair them when they happen, not a year later.

GEBE’s CONTINUED UNRELIABILITY: It’s a government company. What can be done to make it reliable? (Make suggestions in COMMENTS.)

MASS TRANSIT / PARKING: SXM has no traditional metropolitan bus system. Hundreds of private buses and taxis aggravate congestion instead of solving it. 

NON-EXISTENT ZONING REGULATIONS: Runaway overdevelopment aggravates congestion and brings loud noise to residential areas nightly. Comments?

UNLICENSED SCOOTERS AND MOTORBIKES CREATING TRAFFIC HAZARDS

BANNING ALL TINTED CAR WINDOWS SO PASSENGERS CAN ALL BE SEEN

DEPLOYING PROGRAMS TO CREATE HANDICAPPED PARKING AND ENFORCE ITS USE

TIMESHARE OWNER CONSUMER PROTECTION LEGISLATION: Require it be developed with timeshare owners to ensure it benefits BUYERS FIRST. 

BAN AND ENFORCE NO PARKING ON PHILIPSBURG SIDEWALKS EVERY DAY

REQUIRE ALL DEVELOPMENT TO HAVE PROFESSIONAL HYDROLOGICAL STUDIES DONE SO THERE IS NO ADVERSE IMPACT ON DRAINAGE; ENFORCE RETROACTIVELY SO DEVELOPERS MUST FIX PROBLEMS THEY HAVE CAUSED.

Readers can see the votes and all comments at facebook.com/groups/mysxm. Seach the site for “poll crime traffic” and the survey will appear.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - This Valentine’s season, The Windward Islands Bank is giving Kompa Leon cardholders a simple way to turn everyday spending into an unforgettable experience.

From January 15^th through February 14^th, anyone who uses their Kompa Leon card will be eligible to win one of three Valentine’s prizes for two: a romantic picnic, a sunset cruise, or a couple’s spa day. All prizes are experiences for two.

The campaign is designed to reward customers for using their Kompa Leon card for regular purchases, while adding a little extra excitement during the Valentine’s season. The more customers use their card during the campaign period, the more chances they have to win.

“We wanted to create something fun, simple, and rewarding for our Kompa Leon cardholders,” said Daisy Tyrol-Carolus, Country Head at The Windward Islands Bank. “It’s a great reminder that your Kompa Leon card can do more than pay. It can unlock experiences.”

Customers are encouraged to follow The Windward Islands Bank on Facebook for campaign reminders and updates.

Terms and conditions apply.

SINT MAARTEN (COMMENTARY - By Cdr. Bud Slabbaert) - Residents of Coral Cay have reported the sighting of Old Man Bramble on Christmas Eve. Bramble’s appearance is rare and deeply meaningful. He arrived without fanfare and vanished again, leaving behind a sense of that even the smallest light can guide a community forward.

On this Christmas Eve morning, while mist lingered above the sea and the sun's gentle golden light peeked over the horizon, Old Man Bramble appeared. His beard was as white as sea foam, and he held a lantern that glowed with the warmth of a promise.

Jerry, a boy on the beach, was the first to spot him. He'd heard the stories but never expected to see the man in person. Bramble opened his arms wide.

“Come, boy,” he said. “The sea brought me home”

Jerry stepped forward. He reached out, not for Bramble’s hand…but for the lantern. Bramble smiled and said softly. “Ah, you understand.”

As Jerry touched the handle, the flame flared and flame danced. In that moment, the boy and the legend were no longer strangers. They were connected as guardians of its light.

The path from the beach to the village was covered in sand. Palm fronds moved gently above. Old Man Bramble proceeded at a slow, deliberate pace, while Jerry walked proudly beside him. The lantern between them glowed, not just with flame, but with something deeper. The boy’s heart was full of something brighter, the quiet thrill of being the first to walk beside a legend.

As they reached the first houses, one by one, doors opened and quiet smiles welcomed Bramble. He tipped his hat to each doorway; his eyes crinkled with warmth. Elders watched from porches with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude. Villagers greeting them with smiles. It was like an island exhaled. A welcome not just for a man…, but for a returned legend. Bramble's gentle lantern glow reassured everyone that kindness still matters, and Christmas brings people back together.

Just after sunset on this Christmas Eve, families gathered in the old boathouse on the western inlet of the port to hear Old Man Bramble’s tales of resilience and joy. The boathouse had never held so many hearts at once. Children sat cross-legged on the floor, elders leaning on crates and beams, their hands folded, their faces soft with memory. Bramble’s lantern’s glow added emotional warmth and symbolic power. He was seated on a wooden chair like he’d never left. His eyes crinkled with joy. He spoke softly:

“I came on the mist, quiet as a memory, and you welcomed me like family. I thank you. But legends don’t stay long. We are like the tide. We come when needed, and we go we’re done. So, hear me now, before the mist carries me back to the ‘Quiet Place’.”

During the powerful meeting, he explains the symbolism of the lantern, the significance of light, and how it reflects the nature of the human heart.

“Light Is like the heart,” he said, tapping his chest, “Because the heart is the first lantern we ever carry. It glows when we love. It dims when we’re afraid. It brightens when we’re kind. And when we share it, we let our heart-light touch someone else. Everyone has an inner light, a spark. Keep your inner light alive by sharing, showing kindness and courage. When you shine with generosity, honesty, and humility, you help others find their way. When you see someone standing alone, be the first to walk over. Let others borrow your light when their own flickers.

“This lantern isn’t just flame and glass; it’s a reminder. Some lose or hide theirs. Some let the world blow it out. but the wise protect and share it.”

Bramble turned toward the sea. “You see that lighthouse on the far point? It doesn’t shout or move, but its steady brightness helps sailors find their way home.”

He raised the lantern. “This little light is the same. A steady person becomes a beacon for others, not through force or noise but by simply being themselves. Even one small light can change everything and offer hope in the darkest times.”

My dear people…, all of you, every soul on this island. The world is heavy enough. Don’t add weight where you can add kindness. When you shine, the island grows softer. When you do these things, Christmas will never leave you. Not even in the hardest seasons of your life.”

When Bramble finished his story, the boathouse felt full of something soft and glowing. The lanterns above them flickered gently. The place was still humming with warmth long after the story ended. Bramble had grown quiet. He stood near the back door that opened toward the sea. The night breeze slipped in, carrying something that called him.

Young Jerry looked up. “Bramble? Where are you going?”

Bramble smiled soft. “For a little walk, my boy. Christmas night is when the island speaks the clearest.”

Jerry opened his mouth to follow, but Bramble shook his head gently. “Stay with your people.”

He touched Jerry’s shoulder lightly and stepped outside, walking slowly, the lantern in his hand, its glow flickering.

Old Man Bramble slipped away to the quiet shoreline which was lit by the moonlight. The stars shimmered like old friends. And as quietly as he arrived that morning, he returned to the ‘Quiet Place’ as the legend leaving behind a renewed sense of togetherness.

The next morning Jerry went to the beach. The morning sky was pale and soft, like it hadn’t decided on its colors yet. He realized that Bramble left. In the sand were footprints leading toward the water. Jerry knelt, touching the last print. “You’ll come back,” he whispered with a tear in his eyes. “I know you will.”

By Cdr. Bud Slabbaert

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Justice is currently holding an emergency crisis meeting with the leadership of the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) in direct response to the critical situation at the Pointe Blanche Prison, where a fire broke out earlier today, Wednesday, May 14 within the facility.

Emergency units from the Fire Department, Ambulance Services, KPSM, VKS (Voluntary Corps), and the Koninklijke Marechaussee were deployed and successfully restored order and ensured the safety of all involved by 6:00 pm.

Initial reports indicate that there were three minor non-threatening injuries, which were treated on site. All prisoners are safe and accounted for.

The Minister of Justice Nathalie TackIing visited the prison and has officially requested military support to further secure the prison and maintain order.

“This is a serious threat, and we are acting with full force and urgency to secure the safety of the public at large. The safety of the public, prison staff, and detainees remains our top priority.

“We will not tolerate lawlessness, and we are taking all necessary measures to maintain control and uphold the rule of law. I commend all emergency units for their swift response and diligence, and for ensuring that all prison staff and prisoners were safe,” the Minister of Justice Tackling said on Wednesday evening.

The Ministry of Justice will provide further updates as verified information becomes available.