The Two Faces of the Caribbean Island of St. Maarten/St. Martin

My first encounter with the Caribbean Island of St. Maarten/St. Martin was during an onshore excursion from my Caribbean cruise. This Caribbean island is a popular stop among many cruise destinations. The gorgeous beaches, ideal weather, and close proximity to other islands are all a recipe for a great day trip. The British island of Anguilla is another great stop. Anguilla is close by and known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and plentiful water activities.

The first thing I noticed about this island was the energy. I instantly felt my mood rise as I stepped on shore. Locals were happy, helpful, and genuinely enthused to share their beautiful island home with the thousands of tourists that frequent it.

The weather on St. Maarten/St. Martin is phenomenal. Average temperatures throughout the year hover around 82 degrees. Surprisingly, the island only averages two degrees colder in the winter. During my trip it did rain briefly. That was not enough to dampen anyone's mood though.

I experienced incredible shopping. Everything from funky jewelry pieces, decorative household items, and tropical clothing. With no sales tax on items it was a great place to pick up some unique Christmas and birthday gifts.

When I questioned a local to the story behind the two spellings of St. Maarten/St. Martin I was given a simple answer. The island was actually split; half Dutch and half French. With the Dutch spelling of the island being St. Maarten. I honestly would not have known the dual identity of the island if I had not questioned the spellings. You can wander freely from one side to the other. There are no large roadblocks like one would think. However, once I did realize that there were both a Dutch and French side I started to notice the differences.

To me the Dutch side was more historic and the French side more sophisticated. There is an amazing contrast between the two sides, yet they some how mesh together to form one big free flowing island. It is admirable how both sides stay true to the natural cultural influences. On the Dutch side they of course speak Dutch and English. On the French side many speak French, but I found it was just as easy to get by speaking English.

With the incoming cruise ships the Dutch side is heavily populated by tourists. Amazing beaches, casinos, and nightlife keep the tourist busy throughout their entire stay. I found the French side to be more reminiscent of the French Riviera. Outdoor markets, small cafes, and bistros line the streets. Here you will find both luxury resorts and shopping. The shops offer all the latest in French fashions.

If you have the choice for a day excursion to St. Maarten/St. Martin while on a cruise I say it is a must see destination. If a cruise is not in your future consider visiting the island anyways. There is plenty to do to keep you busy for a week.

Enjoy the beauty of the island through hiking, horseback riding, or golfing. To sum up the island I would say it has both charm and energy to draw in even the pickiest of vacationers. St. Maarten/St. Martin is a land of beautiful beaches, happening nightlife, duty free shopping, delicious foods, and spectacular casinos.