Sint Maarten Maagic
At just 37 square miles, St. Maarten is one of the smaller parcels of land in the eastern Caribbean, but it’s bursting with inimitable charm. The Caribbean vibe is tweaked with cosmopolitan Europe on a two-nation island (French Saint-Martin” and Dutch Sint Maarten) defined by cultural combinations.
To fully appreciate the immense diversity of activities available on the island, one day won’t be enough. Renting a car is a wise option, and opting for an introductory tour is a great way to get the lay of the land.
Island-sightseeing.com offers a comprehensive double-decker bus excursion full of photo opportunities on both sides of the island. Or, hop aboard their trolley train for a concise tour through Philipsburg.
Sun worshippers flock to well known Orient Beach, Mullet Bay, Friars, and dozens of others. Local tour operator Blue Bubbles offers opportunities to drift out to world-class snorkel and dive sites, or join one of their Jet-Ski safaris. Landlubbers can go off piste on an ATV adventure or a round-the-island Jeep expedition.
A day at lofty Rainforest Adventures is a must for high-altitude pursuits. Fly between mountaintops on their zip line ... zig zag down a dry slope in a tube … or try the Flying Dutchman, the world’s steepest zip-chair descent. At mid-island, Loterie Farm offers hiking trails, a zip-line course, swimming in the jungle-inspired pool or lounging in the streamside cabanas.
Bird lovers will certainly appreciate Parotte Ville. Sampling craft beer at Pelikaan Brewery or partaking in 20 different rums (and an entertaining presentation) at Topper’s Rhum Distillery should be on every itinerary. Since Philipsburg is designated as a duty-free port, finding bargains is effortless for shoppers after souvenirs, electronics, clothing, and jewelry. Locally produced natural lotions, soaps, and oils, can be found at St. Maarten Nectar.
With over 300 restaurants and cafes, this Culinary Capital Of The Caribbean offers French-inspired gastronomy, Creole and West Indian specialties, and Mediterranean-influenced dishes. Roadside barbecue stalls dispense local flavors, with Captain’s Rib Shack a casual favorite for takeout or outdoor dining.
Seasonal celebrations are outstanding cultural opportunities. Sailing enthusiasts converge on the annual Sint Maarten Heineken Regatta in early March, followed by the epic house music SXM Festival. In spring, the multiday Carnival, with its parades, dancing, and costumes is followed in November by the Flavors of St. Maarten Food & Wine Festival.
Live music can be found at many bars but nightlife is dominated by the nine casinos that are spread across the island. Accommodations range from villa rentals, guest houses, and beach resorts to the adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point and the adjacent family-friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort. The highly acclaimed Belmond La Samana exudes a lifestyle of elegance and luxury.