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Floating Adventures

Sint Maarten – a unique island of two cultures. A guide to the history, attractions, and flavors of the Caribbean

 

Sint Maarten is one of the most fascinating and unique islands in the Caribbean. Small yet full of contrasts and extraordinary energy, it is famous not only for its paradise beaches and turquoise waters, but also for its exceptional history—as the only island in the world peacefully divided between two countries: the Netherlands and France. This blend of cultures, languages, flavors, and traditions creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

 

 

The history of the island, from the native Arawaks to a division between two nations

 

The first inhabitants of the island were the Arawaks, who settled here hundreds of years before the arrival of Europeans. In the 15th century, the island was discovered by Christopher Columbus and named “San Martín.” In the centuries that followed, the Dutch, French, and Spanish competed for control of the island.

 

A turning point came with the Treaty of Concordia in 1648, which divided the island into two parts:

 

  • Sint Maarten (Dutch side) – dynamic, commercial, and modern

  • Saint-Martin (French side) – calmer, more elegant, with a European character

 

This division has survived to this day and is one of the oldest continuously functioning territorial divisions in the world.

 

 

Culture – a unique blend of the Caribbean and Europe

 

Sint Maarten is a true cultural melting pot. You will find influences from:

 

  • Dutch

  • French

  • Caribbean

  • Creole

  • Latin

  • African

  • British and American

 

This mix gives the island an exceptionally open and welcoming atmosphere. Several languages can be heard on the streets at the same time—English, Dutch, French, Creole, and Spanish. Local art dominates galleries, while festivals resonate with soca, calypso, and reggae music.

 

Major cultural events:

 

  • Carnival – the largest and most colorful celebration on the island

  • St. Maarten Day (November 11) – a shared holiday of both sides of the island

  • Heineken Regatta – an international sailing event attracting competitors from all over the world

 

 

The top attractions of Sint Maarten

 

 

1. Famous Maho Beach – planes landing just overhead

The island’s most iconic spot. Aircraft approach for landing just above the beach, creating a spectacular sight. It is one of the most unique beaches in the world.

 

 

2. Philipsburg – the capital of the Dutch side

Colorful buildings, duty-free shopping, a port for the largest cruise ships, and the beautiful Great Bay Beach.

 

 

3. Marigot – French charm in the Caribbean

A charming town with a European atmosphere, a local market, and the ruins of Fort Louis offering panoramic views of the bay.

 

 

4. Orient Bay – the Caribbean “Riviera”

One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, featuring luxury restaurants, beach bars, and water sports.

 

 

5. Fort Amsterdam and Fort Louis

Two historic colonial-era forts with breathtaking views over the bays.

 

 

6. Simpson Bay and Maho – nightlife

The entertainment hub of the island: clubs, beach bars, casinos, concerts, and restaurants open late into the night.

 

 

7. Trips to neighboring islands

From Sint Maarten, it’s easy to travel to:

 

  • Anguilla

  • St. Barth

  • Saba

  • St. Eustatius

 

 

The cuisine of Sint Maarten – a paradise for food lovers

 

Cuisine is another reason to fall in love with this island. Thanks to its cultural diversity, the local food scene is incredibly rich and varied.

 

What to try:

 

  • Johnny Cakes – fluffy fried breads, a symbol of the island

  • Conch – sea snail prepared in many different ways

  • BBQ ribs – local bars are famous for some of the best ribs in the Caribbean

  • Codfish fritters – fried codfish balls

  • Fresh local fish and seafood

  • Rum punches and guavaberry liqueur – iconic local drinks

 

There are over 300 restaurants on the island—from food trucks to exclusive oceanfront dining. The French side is renowned for having some of the finest cuisine in the Caribbean, while the Dutch side offers an enormous variety of dishes from around the world.

 

 

Why visit Sint Maarten?

 

  • 37 beaches – each one different, each one unique

  • Warm water all year round

  • Duty-free zone – excellent shopping

  • Professional diving and sailing facilities

  • A unique combination of cultures

  • A safe and friendly destination for families, couples, and solo travelers

  • The most spectacular airport in the world

 

 

Summary

 

Sint Maarten is an island that offers everything: beautiful beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, exceptional cuisine, and top-level entertainment. It is a place that captivates from the very first moment and makes everyone want to return. Combining Caribbean laid-back vibes with European style, it creates an atmosphere that cannot be compared to any other place in the world.

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