[Caribbean Travel] France/Netherlands: St. Martin Island Marigot Philipsburg

Saint Martin is an island in the Caribbean Sea, but it is an island ruled by France and the Netherlands. The north side is called Saint-Martin in France, and the south side is called Sint Maarten in the Netherlands. Saint Martin is completely duty-free, so it’s an island that attracts immigrants for retirement. It is an island where you can experience two cultures at the same time.

place

Saint Martin is located in the Caribbean Sea.

history

Originally, the island was inhabited by the Caribbean and Arawak tribes. The island was discovered by Columbus in 1493 and called San Martín. The Dutch began colonizing in the 1600s and were at war with Spain. The Dutch and French then began to settle the island again, and in 1648 the island was divided between them. Saint Martin was declared duty-free in 1939.

climate

Saint Martin belongs to a tropical climate. The temperature is very stable and there are no extreme fluctuations. Temperatures range from 18°C to 33°C throughout the year.

language

French and Dutch are spoken on Saint Martin. However, English is also widely used.

security

Saint Martin is relatively safe compared to other countries. Since it is a small island, there is almost no chance of getting caught up in crime.

industry

The island’s main industry is tourism, and most of the inhabitants work in tourism.

Race

Black Africans make up the majority. But there are also indigenous peoples and white people living there.

religion

Most are Christian.

currency

Saint Martin has three official currencies. US dollar, Antillean guilder in the Netherlands. The euro is used in France.

Sightseeing Spot 1 : Maho Beach

Famous beach in Saint Martin. The beach is visited by many tourists. The planes taking off and landing that can be seen from the beach are very impressive.

Sightseeing Spot 2 : Philipsburg

Philipsburg is the capital of the Dutch territory of Saint Martin. It has two main streets and many shops, restaurants and cafes. The city also has beaches.

Sightseeing Spot 3 : Marigot

Another center of Saint Martin is the capital on the French side. There are trendy restaurants and cafes. The market is thriving, and various products are sold.

Sightseeing Spot 4 : Grand Case

Known as the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean, it is home to many French restaurants. Every Tuesday night, they have a special event called Harmony Night, featuring music, dance and a craft market.

Sightseeing Spot 5 : Pic Paradis

The highest point in Saint Martin. It is also said to be a scenic spot and is one of the tourist spots. This is a sugar cane plantation, a place full of nature.

Sightseeing Spot 6 : Orient Bay 

A beach northeast of Saint Martin. It is known as the “Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean” because celebrities and jet-setters gather from all over the world.

Sightseeing Spot 7 : Long Bay

Beach west of Saint Martin. The waves are calm, so even children can play here. It’s a relatively quiet place, so it’s a beach recommended for people who want to spend a relaxing time.

Sightseeing Spot 8 : Plum Bay

A beach further west of Long Bay. Be careful as the waves are higher than Long Bay. It is a recommended place for those who want to surf. You can also snorkel when it’s quiet.

Sightseeing Spot 9 : Friars’ Bay Beach

A beach northwest of Saint Martin. You can get lost in the music where the party is held every night. Many families come to this beach.

Sightseeing Spot 10 : Tintamarre Island

Tintamar Island is a nature reserve. You can enjoy swimming on the beautiful island. There are no shops on the island, so if you don’t prepare in advance, you will have a hard time.

Hotel

Saint Martin has a wide range of accommodation options. The closest airport is Princess Juliana International Airport. You can book flights and accommodation from the link below. Other languages are also supported.