The smallest island in the world ever to have been partitioned between two different nations, St Martin/St Maarten has been shared by the French and the Dutch in a spirit of neighborly cooperation and mutual friendship for almost 350 years. At the same time each side has managed to retain much of the distinctiveness of its own national culture. The French tend to emphasize comfort and elegance. The latest French fashions can be found in the shops and the restaurants offers the finest dining experiences anywhere in the Caribbean.
The Dutch side is definitely the shoppers' heaven with its duty free stores on Frontstreet, Philipsburg. You can have the best deals on electronics, cigarettes, liquors and jewels. St Maarten is also known throughout the Caribbean for its eclectic nightlife.
The island's sugary-white beaches are spiritually restive and abundant. Walkers who encounter them are often struck by their splendid seclusion.
You can find a plethora of activities such as boating, fishing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, hiking, biking, rollerblading, horseback riding, tennis, squash, golf and fly fishing.