Is St. Maarten Carnival safe?
 

My husband and I will be in Simpson Bay area of St Maarten at the tail end of Carnival in May. Is it worth goinging to Philipsburg for the grand parade on Monday night? Not sure if this an event for locals or if tourists are welcomed. If we go, I assume we should take a taxi. Any thoughts?

I was during carnival on the french side. Marigot.

People were welcoming. They are celebrating why would they resent tourists having fun with them ?

Just pay attention to your belongings, these kind of festivities attract pickpockets, although I didn't see one.

Is the dutch side as civilized as the french side, I don't know. Being belgian I have doubts, but I may be provocative. Slightly.