St Martin Island

St Martin Island

The history of the Caribbean is a turbulent one with different nations in dispute over territory. The unusual political situation of St Martin Island involves the French and the Dutch.

There is something ultimate in a FATHER'S love, something to be BELIEVED against the whole world.
Author: Frederick W. Faber

This tropical, tourist destination is under the rule of France in the north and under the Netherlands in the south. The island is divided approximately in half and both countries agreed this to in 1648. The early economy was dominated by the French development of sugar plantations in the 18th century, which were worked by slaves. Today, the island is reliant on tourism and the area is sometimes hit by tropical storms.

Cultural life on the island has many influences. In addition to the French and Dutch legacy, there is the local Creole population and African descendents. The main languages are French, Dutch, English and Spanish. Music is never far away and involves soca, calypso, reggae and other Caribbean forms.

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The major airport is the Princess Juliana International Airport, famous for its very short runway. International airlines run daily scheduled flights to St Martin Island. Hired cars are the most popular method of moving around for visitors. Accommodation is plentiful and ranges from five star hotels to villas and timeshares. Dining is versatile in terms of cost and ranges from gourmet to inexpensive outlets. The cuisine is a mix of Creole and French on the French side of the island.

The Dutch sector is called Sint Maarten and is best known for its beaches and nightlife, which includes an abundance of casinos. On the other side of St Martin Island, the French part is called Saint-Martin and its most famous features are nude beaches, jewelry making and clothes shops. It is also noted for its rum based cocktails.

The largest town in the French half of the island is Marigot and is worth a visit to see the fine colonial buildings and to taste the French style cooking. Designer label boutiques are another feature. On the Dutch side, the largest town is Philipsburg, which is known for its great shopping, restaurants and casinos.

There are scenic islands nearby too, such as the French owned Saint - Barthelemy. This island is known for its pristine beaches and it attracts water sports enthusiasts. There is the opportunity to see whales and dolphins and there are several beachfront bungalows and villas to stay in. Saba, owned by the Dutch is another tourist island close to St Martin Island. It's known for its diving facilities, coral reef and excellent marine life.

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