http://www.thedailyherald.com/news/daily/e102/edit102.html

why did Aruba do this and what does it do for them? What are the pros and cons..would BON do this?

Annie
Cape Cod

Aruba elected to have Status Aparte for economic reasons, only to have their main employer, Exxon, refinerey close their doors shortly thereafter. The reinventred themselves and decided to concentrate on tourism, both cruise and land, and have been developing along those lines ever since. As for Sint Maarten, they have always made their own laws and only levied taxes as they saw fit. They are mostly English Speaking and have a different outlook on doing business (they are duty free). It has always been a lot of trouble politically with the sss islands. As for Bonaire asking for Status Aparte? So many pros and cons, it would take the wisdom of Solomon to figure it out. BTW Your Papiamentu dictionary is on its way.

I have been to Sint Maarten several times. It is not a place I would stay. Too Americanized and tacky. I would do my shopping and head back to Antigua. I loved St. Marten as it was more charming.

Masha danki, Michael. I am doing my lessons outside in the 62 degree sun. Wonder how long it will take to get here.

Annie
Cape Cod

Sint Maarten also has had a high stakes casino business with accompanying money laundering which was a real headache to the then-Attorney General of the Antilles. He was determined to keep that sort of influence from Bonaire--so far so good.

That is reassuring to hear, Glen. Having lived in Antigua (can you spell CORRUPTION) I was so disturbed by the internet casinos, adult 900# services, money laundry and the use as a refuge for wanted criminals. I lived there in the 80's when things were very weird. There is a book called Caribbean Time Bomb that covers the events during my residence there. I love the beauty and charm of ANU but like Sint Maarten, some things are very wrong.

Annie
Cape Cod