St. Martin/St. Maarten brings together the best of two worlds--all on one island! This unique island has both a French side and a Dutch side, and just as each side of the island has its own distinct culture, each side also has its own distinct lifestyle.
The Two Sides of St. Martin/St. Maarten
St. Martin, the French side of the island, is known for its quiet, sophisticated, relaxed atmosphere. Savory French and Creole cuisine can be experienced here, as well as some of the best shopping. In the capital of Marigot is an open-air market, where tourists can find locally made art and traditional Caribbean souvenirs. For those who seek to relax in the sun, St. Martin has plenty of white sand beaches, where tourists can even feel free to go topless or bottomless if they are so inclined.
The Dutch side of the island, known as St. Maarten, is fitting for those who prefer an active lifestyle. Tennis, golf and a variety of water sports can be played here. There is also plenty of nightlife and casino gambling at this Caribbean travel destination. Philipsburg, the capital, provides leisurely shopping and sightseeing opportunities, with its many art galleries, souvenir shops, and jewelry stores within a setting that is sometimes reminiscent of Amsterdam.
Tourists, as well as island residents, enjoy transitioning between the drastically different lifestyles and cultures of St. Martin/St. Maarten. Fortunately, this transition is made easy, since customs checks are not required for traveling between the two sides of the island. If you choose to plan your Caribbean Island vacation here, don't forget that this is a tax-free and duty-free island. You'll be sure to find many cheap, yet priceless Caribbean treasures here--in more ways than one!
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