A Trip to St. Martin / St. Maarten |
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Do you want to take your valentine to an islet that offers a juxtaposition of the French and Dutch culture? That too in one visit only? Then St Martin/ St. Maarten is the right place for you. Divided roughly between France and Netherlands, St. Martin (in French)/ St. Maarten (in Dutch) is the smallest populated landmasses (only 38 square-mile) in the world that is divided between two nations. The island wears a necklace of 36 islands with clean, white sand beaches and crystal clear sea with high waves for surfing.
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These tiny busy and deserted beaches amidst the rocky cliffs make an ideal romantic getaway for couples. From isolated, romantic little coves to miles of white sand beaches where the sea laps on the shore touching your feet- it’s a complete lovers’ destination. There are a plethora of activities to keep you busy in the beach, like, volleyball, horseback riding, snorkeling, parasailing, scuba diving, surfing, jet skiing, sailing, and many more!
Though the border is almost imperceptible, still both the sides in the island try to keep their own identity. The French emphasizes more on comfort and style in their isolated beaches with luxury accommodations and finest Caribbean dining experiences. Known for her nude beaches and exotic drinks with rum-based guavaberry liquors. The shops with the latest French fashions, the smell of the fresh pastries and croissants blended with the spicy aromas of West Indian cooking adds a cosmopolitan chic to the place- it’s a complete relaxation point. On the other hand, St. Maarten, the Dutch side, is a bustling commercial district with its busy cruise port and festive nightlife full with casinos. More developed and informal, posses strong ties with neighbors in other Netherlands Antilles.
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Places for Sightseeing
The French site:
Fort St. Louis – the largest historical monument in St. Martin, built in 1767 was named after the famous crusading king of France. The summit gives a panoramic view of the island encircled by the blue ripples.
Marigot – the capital city of the French counterpart, famous for cafés & bistros, spa, luxury boutiques, fashion shops and pasty shops.
St. Martin Museum, Grand Case, Colombier, Orleans, Terres Basses, Grand Case, Paradise Peak, Mt .Concordia are some of the other places to visit.
Cupecoy Beach – full of rock formations and caves.
Maho Beach - great to capture scenic beauty.
Longue Bay- one of the longest and quietest beach, ideal for snorkeling.
Orient Bay and Baie Rouge are good for a walk in the beaches and parasailing.
The Dutch site:
St. Maarten Zoological Park – explore over 80 species of animals including the largest exhibit of exotic parrots in the Caribbean.
The Butterfly Farm – abode of various colorful butterflies, including the Monarch butterflies.
Orient Beach – the most popular beach famous for its clothing optional factor.
For more information on St. Martin / St. Maarten and the sightseeing places, log onto www.mydearvalentine.com.
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