The Island of St. Martin/Maarten
"A bit of Europe in the Caribbean"
Stunning sunsets, beautiful beaches,
world class dining, duty-free shopping, casinos, exciting nightlife, a carnival, an international
sailing regatta, all manner of watersports, a jazz festival and friendly people are just some of the things
you'll find on this tropical island.
Half Dutch, half French, with English widely spoken, St. Martin/Maarten offers
a magical blend of beauty, charm and sophistication in just 37 square miles of paradise.
The history of the island is as diverse as its beauty. Since 1632 France and the Netherlands have
shared this haven of sun, sea and sand. St. Martin/Maarten's diversity is evident in all aspects of island life
from restaurants, to music, to art and culture. The island prides itself on being home to over 100 different
nationalities.
Arawak and Carib Indians were probably the first inhabitants as early as 4000 B.C. and two museums, the Sint Maarten Museum
in Philipsburg and the St. Martin Museum in Marigot feature a wide collection of artifacts from this culture.
The island is blessed with 36 magnificent beaches from Orient Beach, the "San Tropez" of the Caribbean to uncrowded less easily
accessible beaches to two island beaches. Each beach with its powder white sand is unique and offers everything
from windsurfing, snorkeling, dramatic rock formations, au natural sunbathing, swimming to quiet seclusion. As this
island is easily circumnavigated in an hour and a half you can enjoy many different beaches on your holiday.
Dining is one of life's great pleasures and this island boasts more than 300 restaurants.
This island's multi cultural heritage has resulted in the well earned acclaim as the Dining
Capital of the Caribbean. From lolos (barbecue stands), petite boulangerie (bakeries) to its astonishing range
of regional French, Italian, Indian, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisines - not to mention good
old-fashioned island cooking, there is exceptional choice in dinning options. Master chefs from around the world now call this
island home. Here one can also find the best bottles of wine produced in the world.
St Matin/St Maarten is a shoppers paradise. Shop duty free for jewelry, linens, crystal and china, electronics, fashions,
European specialties, Cuban cigars, original works of art and crafts.
The Nightlife is hot and varied. It starts late and goes to the wee hours.
Casinos abound on the Dutch side of the island and many resorts offer a free shuttle for their guests.
All manner of watersports are available. The island is a yachting haven and the international
Heiniken yacht race is a yearly event. Carnival is a grand, yearly festival with both the Dutch and French holding
their own carnival. Truly, this island has something for everyone.