Wife and I stayed here for three nights during a 10 night vacation (one night at beginning of vacation and two nights at end. We spent other 7 nights on a 50 foot 4 couple+crew catamaran cruising around the nearby islands.

We picked this hotel for the price and convenience to shopping and dining in Phillipsburg. The luxury portion of our vacation was on the catamaran. We wanted a basic hotel to rest our weary bodies after the long trek from CA. The hotel is a great basic property. My wife is very picky (likes Westins, W's, Marriott’s, Ritz etc.) Even she was happy with this property to satisfy our basic needs. Very clean and centrally located. Booked over internet and there were absolutely no surprises. Very nice basic room with clean bathroom and AC that works. Safe for valuables, beach with umbrellas, lounges and towels at no add'l cost. Very comfortable bed. We would stay here again for a night or two. Would stay at a resort style property if we were going to be there for extended stay.

I would compare this to a clean Best Western or equivalent. It is not a resort property (in our opinion—though Europeans will stay her for extended periods) but service is friendly and attentive. Located right on the beach, on a strand style boardwalk, and on Front Street with best duty free shopping in Caribbean. They have a clean, simple open lobby with seating overlooking the beach, large bar, outdoor dining room. Will hold your bags if room not ready. Bathroom to change into bathing suits if room not ready.

Many places to eat nearby (Taloula Mango's, Chesterfields, Greenhouse, etc.) Get Wet Bar for $1 Heineken’s (small bottles). Recommend St. Rose Restaurant (actually a casual outdoor cafe/stand on Front St. in the St. Rose Arcade) for breakfast/lunch. Presidente Beer $2 and good crab salad. Over at Maho at the end of the runway—Sunset Beach Café, a happening place with great reggae band and watch the plans land (almost on you). Up the road near Cupecoy Resort try Cliffhanger Bar if you don’t mind cliffhanging.

We have traveled the world for 30 years. Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, South America, South Pacific, Asia. We have usually found it difficult to find a locally run property that is reliable. This is one of the few. Highly recommended basic property. Kudos to the owners of Holland House for a job well done.

Misc Info: Paid $18 for cab from Airport, $15 to airport and $15 to Marigot (plus tip in all cases). If you plan to tour the island, cars are about $35/day + insurance. St. Maarten was a very hospitable experience--the people all appreciate the tourists and their financial support. Everyone on both Dutch and French side speaks English. Dollars accepted everywhere. Hotel power is 110v like USA. What more can I say.