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Sint Maarten/
St. Martin
Experience two nations on one stunning Caribbean island, where Dutch and French cultures create an unforgettable paradise.
Welcome to Sint Maarten/St. Martin, a captivating Caribbean gem where two distinct cultures harmoniously blend on a single 37-square-mile island. As the smallest landmass in the world shared by two nations, this tropical paradise offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience both Dutch and French influences in one remarkable destination. The southern Dutch side, Sint Maarten, pulses with energetic resorts, bustling casinos, and legendary duty-free shopping, while the northern French side, St. Martin, enchants with its refined cuisine, chic boutiques, and laid-back beaches.
The island's diverse attractions cater to every type of traveler. Adventure seekers flock to Maho Beach to witness the spectacular sight of jumbo jets landing just meters overhead at the adjacent Princess Juliana International Airport, creating one of the world's most unique beach experiences. Culinary enthusiasts find their paradise in Grand Case, known as the Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean, where classic French cuisine meets fresh Caribbean flavors in both elegant restaurants and local lolos (open-air barbecue spots). For beach lovers, the island boasts 37 stunning stretches of sand, from the bustling shores of Orient Bay with its European flair to the tranquil coves of Little Bay.
Natural beauty abounds across the island, from the heights of Pic Paradis to the protected waters of Simpson Bay Lagoon. Visitors can explore hidden gems like Loterie Farm, a secret hideaway offering hiking trails and canopy tours through tropical forest, or take a short boat ride to the serene Pinel Island for world-class snorkeling. The dual-nation island also serves as an ideal base for day trips to neighboring islands like Anguilla, St. Barths, and Saba, each offering their own distinct Caribbean charm.
The island's rich history dates back to the 1648 Treaty of Concordia, establishing the peaceful coexistence between the French and Dutch that continues to this day. This heritage is visible in the colonial architecture of Philipsburg and Marigot, the two capital cities that showcase their respective European influences. Today, the island embraces a cosmopolitan atmosphere where multiple languages are spoken, various currencies are accepted, and diverse cultures seamlessly blend, creating a welcoming environment for international visitors.
Whether you're seeking duty-free shopping along Front Street in Philipsburg, water sports adventures in Simpson Bay, serene beaches on the French side, or world-class dining in Grand Case, Sint Maarten/St. Martin provides an unforgettable Caribbean experience that combines the best of two worlds. The island's year-round warm climate, easy accessibility from major North American and European cities, and wide range of accommodations from luxury resorts to boutique hotels make it an ideal destination for any season.
Points of Interest
Click on each photo for additional detail.
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