Roadside vendors have been advised by the Ministries of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) and Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure VROMI (see related story) to remove their booth structures by 5:00pm Monday, May 13. Their permits were issued for the Carnival period that ended with the burning of King Momo on Tuesday night.
Those who fail to comply with the deadline or other conditions set risk not qualifying for a spot in 2020, which is a practical enforcement tool rather than the added administrative burden of a fine or other sanction. After all, the sale of food and drink appears to be rather profitable, judging by the interest.
In any case, booth-holders inside Carnival Village were generally satisfied after the golden anniversary edition. Most of those interviewed on Voice of St. Maarten reported being tired but happy with the bigger-than-usual crowds, including the one who won free rent next year.
Even if you are not a fan and – for example – refuse to use the 2019 vehicle number plates with the Carnival 50 slogan, there is no denying that the close-to-three-week event not only brings visitors but creates economic activity. Think of all the persons and businesses involved in making parade costumes, road-pieces and floats alone.
Although tourism ultimately provides practically the entire population’s livelihood, not everyone may be able to make use of entrepreneurial opportunities offered by the mainstay hospitality industry. The Dutch side’s maximum cultural celebration gives locals the chance to honestly earn an extra buck and that too is important.
