The small town of Grand Case sits on the west coast of the French half, nestled along a wide harbor with over a mile of beaches. The Creole-infused French culture gave the town a New Orleans vibe. The main street running parallel to the beach was full of galleries, small shops and open-air restaurants. These restaurants - called lolos - flow together, serving amazing Creole cuisine.

We inadvertently timed our visit to coincide with les mardis de grand case, St. Martin’s yearly festival. It starts around mid-January and runs pretty much until they run out of money, about 3 months. The main drag shuts down to cars, and fills up with bands, performers and artisans, culminating in a parade with feathered dancers and musicians playing conch shells and gourds.