Imagine an island in the Caribbean where you can take your Dutch cheese from one side of the island, go a very short distance, take your French wine from the other side of the island and enjoy the sunset in the Caribbean.
Yes, this is St. Maarten, the Friendly Island that fits two countries in its 87 square kilometers.
Shared by France and the Netherlands, this tiny Caribbean island offers a rich cultural diversity and incredible natural beauty due to its dual identity.
Although I said St. Maarten, the French side of this island is known as Saint Martin and the Dutch side is known as Saint Maarten, but since our diving operation is on the Dutch side, I had the opportunity to spend more time on the Saint Maarten side every time I visited the island.
The capital of St. Maarten is Philipsburg, known for its long beach and lively beachside venues. I know what you think of when I say capital city, but it’s not like that. The main street of the capital is a beach. Just behind it a few small streets where you can shop and where the locals live. Philipsburg attracts attention with its lively atmosphere, duty-free shopping and colorful nightlife. Here you will find the famous Maho Beach, where you can watch the planes pass at low altitude as they land at Princess Juliana International Airport. The Dutch side also attracts plenty of tourists for casino games and beach parties.
When we get to the French side, to St Martin, the atmosphere changes a bit. This part of the island gives off a relaxed European vibe. The cozy French cafes in Marigot are notable for their gourmet food and boutique shopping. The French side is also home to some of the cleanest beaches on the island, such as Orient Bay and Anse Marcel, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
One of the island’s most iconic sights is Maho Beach. Everyone who comes to St. Martin must have an experience at Maho Beach. Located on the edge of the runway of the Princess Juliana International Airport, this beach is famous for the incredible spectacle of low-flying airplanes. Watching the planes fly by from just a few meters above is a truly unforgettable experience.
My favorite island activity is to sit somewhere in Philipsburg on the St. Maarten side and enjoy the sunset after a nice course day.
If you like hiking, the heights of the island offer beautiful views.
The best time to visit St. Martin is between December and April when the weather is warm, sunny and dry. This is also high season, so there will be more crowds and prices will be high. The season between May-June and November is the best time to visit in my opinion, with milder weather and fewer tourists.
Currency: The Euro is used on the French side and the Netherlands Antilles Guilder on the Dutch side, but the US dollar is widely accepted on both sides.
Language: French is spoken on the French side and Dutch on the Dutch side, but English is widely spoken throughout the island.
Transportation: The most comfortable way to explore the island is to rent a car, as public transportation is limited. I think a scooter will do the job more than enough.
St. Maarten is a fascinating destination that offers something for every type of traveler. With its unique blend of French and Dutch cultures, spectacular natural beauty and diverse activities, it is a must-visit Caribbean gem. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on a sunny beach, exploring historical sites or savoring gourmet cuisine, your time in St. Martin is sure to be an unforgettable adventure. Pack your suitcase and get ready to discover the magic of the “Friendly Island”.
