The French and Dutch Caribbean Island of St. Martin / St. Maarten

A destination that has something for everyone has to be the diverse island of French St. Martin and Dutch St. Maarten. Should you be a high end traveler then the most decadent indulgence you will find on St. Martin is the spectacular cuisine. The once fisherman's village of Grand Case has evolved into a foodie paradise offering over 40 restaurants around its main street. Le Pressoir which is set in a restored Creole cottage that dates back to the 1870's serves up traditional French dishes whilst the nearby Blue Martini serves up more of an island ambience and Creole seafood cuisine.

The Ma DouDou rum factory can be found close to Grand Cross although the word factory really does not do it justice. The facility sits right on a hill looking out to sea as well as having been built into the home of the owner who by the way imports her rum barrels from Martinique and Guadaloupe and then infuses them with natural flavors. One of the islands favorites is her banana-vanilla rum which is served with pieces of banana floating in the liquor. Every bottle of rum is a hand-painted bottle with images of tropical scenery, images of fish or flowers adorning it.

It is on the French side of the island that you will find many upscale resorts such as La Samanna where guests spend their time in lavish villas and luxury suites which are outfitted with posh French provencal décor and features mahogany and marble bathrooms as well as sea-facing balconies and private infinity pools.

Of course Grand Case is not just for upscale diners as there can be found a wonderful array of dining opportunities here.

Right beside the high end gourmet restaurants can be found lo-lo's which are huts that serve local meat and seafood dishes that are popular with the island's locals. Meals tend to consist of smoked meats, rice, beans, and barbecue chicken and pork but they are tasty and come in around $5-$10 per plate which will never break the bank.

If it is culture you are interested in then you can continue your feast of senses at any of St. Martin's art galleries. St Martin is renowned for its artists who portray their Caribbean surroundings in the kindest of lights. Artists such as Roland Richardson who's best known works show flamboyant trees in bloom usually with a breezy blue ocean in the back ground.

Most of St. Martin/St Maarten has a small land mass which has mostly been developed for tourism purposes so to see what the island was like before civilization you need to take a trip to Loterie Farm. Loterie Farm is a 154 acre private nature preserve on the French side. You will find Loterie Farm at Pic Paradis and here you will be able to take eco-tours of the surroundings, go hiking, meditate or practice yoga.

For the adventurous one of the top activities here is the Fly Zone Extreme which is a zip line adventure that takes through the forest as you travel across cables, ropes and suspended bridges. After your adventure you can enjoy tapas and tropical drinks at the hidden Forest Café.

The French are renowned for being romantic so it is no shock to discover that the French side of the island offers plenty for lovers. The Orient Beach is a must for those wishing to find seclusion and also has a clothing optional section for those so inclined.

For a fun time with friends then get over to the Dutch side where you will find a wealth of entertainment and nightlife. The best place on the island to place your bets is the Casino Royale which will entice even the most reluctant gambler. Then pop next door and you will find yourself in the Tanta Nightclub and Sanctuary. This is one of the largest nightclubs in the Caribbean.

Most of the entertainment is at night but there is still plenty to do during the day especially if you love to shop.

Source: Continental Airlines Guide to The Caribbean