St. Maarten
Description
St. Maarten offers a delightful case of split personality. Legend has it that a Frenchman and a Dutchman divided ownership of the island through a walk-off: Standing back to back, the two headed in opposite directions, walking around the island until they met. Perhaps the Dutchman paused for a refreshing brew. At any rate, the French ended up claiming 21 square miles of the island to 16 square miles for the Dutch. This lively tale says much about St. Maarten's easygoing ways. No formal boundary exists between the Dutch and French sides of the island; a simple welcome sign tells you when you cross from one country to the other. But the differences are as noticeable as the spelling of the island's name. The French spell it St. Martin. And it's this split personality that lends so much to the island's charms, including an international reputation for the finest cuisine in the Caribbean.
Points of Interest
- Philipsburg
- Marigot
- Underwater Adventures
- America's Cup Regatta
- Outdoor Adventure
- St. Barths
- Rockland Estate Eco-Park
- Topper's Rhum
More about St. Maarten Points of Interest
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Philipsburg -
The Dutch capital of St. Maarten, Philipsburg charms with colonial architecture, historic buildings, wonderful shopping and sun-swept beaches. Just a few blocks wide, delights can be found around every corner.
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Marigot -
The hub of French St. Martin, this capital city is filled with designer boutiques, sidewalk cafés and bistros and trendy art galleries. Wander through the charming streets and experience a taste of France.
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Underwater Adventures -
Explore St. Maarten's underwater life. Many activities offered on island include, snorkeling, helmet diving, submarines and much more!
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America's Cup Regatta -
Take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be Dennis Conner for the day and race million-dollar yachts in the turquoise blue waters and brisk trade winds of the Caribbean Sea.
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Outdoor Adventure -
One of St. Maarten's pluses is the fine collection of venues to sail, swim, snorkel and kayak. Or take an exhilarating Segway tour on the boardwalk!
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St. Barths -
Gustavia is the capital of St. Barths and the center of commerce. You will be dropped off right in town for independent sightseeing, shopping, or dining in town.
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Rockland Estate Eco-Park -
Built in the 1700s, the plantation house is the former home of slave Trace Wilson today, it's the site of thrilling rides like the Sky Explorer, one of St. Maarten's highest points at 1,115 feet and The Flying Dutchman.
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Topper's Rhum -
Topper's Rhum has won over twenty-five international awards and 1st place in 2019's USA Today's 10 BEST Rum Distillery in the Caribbean.