I'm planning to move from Australia to Dutch Sint Maarten to work for a dive company. Thanks to Mar and Anon for your comments about Philipsburg being dangerous and to be careful wandering the island on my own. What should I be concerned about in regards to safety? I don't want to move half way around the world to not be able to walk around after I finish work.
I'm tall tanned blonde and athletic looking. Should I have any concerns? I am well travelled and have been living in Sicily.
Any advise will be really appreciated.

Thanks
Kellie

Just use common sense. I think most areas are safe to walk through but you can't take unnecessary chances. I think you'll be fine.

kELLIE
I'm afraid its just not as simple as it sounds here. I wish you could talk to some of the female students at the AUC. I talked to a few of them and the tales they tell are a little scary about their rooms and apartments being broken into while they slept and being robbed multiple times and more. I'm not trying to be an alarmist but as you describe yourself youd be a very likely candidate for the wrong people so just be very wise and be extremely carefu and keep your eyes and ears open wherever you wander.

Kellie,

I want you to know that I moved here one year ago and what suppose to be a short stay has now turned longer because I like the island. Having said that though I am as careful as one could be...

I don't want you to be completly discouraged just be cautious, know your surroundings, and do not take unnecessary risks.

Kellie,
Very dangerous!! You should stay with me and let me protect you!!!! LOL
Just kidding! Just watch your surroundings, don't be gullible, don't do things that are potentially dangerous. Travel with friends you know. Have fun.