Saint Martin Island
St. Maarten, also known Saint Martin Island, is the smallest inhabited island in the world. The Island is in the northeast of the Caribbean Sea, a few kilometres south of Anguilla. The 87-kilometre square island is owned by two nations. 60% of the landmass is owned by France who name the territory Saint Martin. The remaining 40% is the property of the Kingdom of Netherlands who named the territory Sint Maarten.
The French side (Saint Martin) is popular for its nude beaches, fashion, and outdoor market, open-air shops, French, and Indian Caribbean cruises. The Dutch side (Sint Maarten) is known for its festive life, Casinos, drinks made with native rum-based guava berry liquids. Of the two territories, the St. Maarten receives more visitors than its neighbours
St. Maarten Culture and Language
The culture of Saint Martin is an interesting mixture of African, French, British, and Dutch heritage. Although St. Martin is a single island, the culture of its people is the result of influences by their respective administering countries, France and Netherlands. Even so, the two territories share such similar heritage and traditions that it can be difficult to tell where Saint-Martin ends, and Sint Maarten begins.
Due to the diverse nationalities present on the island quite a few languages are spoken. An English-based Creole is the main local vernacular. However, the official languages are French for Saint-Martin, with Dutch and English being official for Sint Maarten.
The music popular on St. Martin includes a variety of styles beloved throughout the Caribbean. Sounds like Calypso, merengue, soca, zouk, and reggae all contribute to the festive culture that permeates the island.
Things To Do In St. Maarten
St. Maarten is a great location for vacation, honeymoon, a private business meeting or have. This Caribbean island is fun filled with tropical beaches and beautiful sceneries possessing memories to relish for life. In a multicultural island such as this, there is a lot to expect, and the island does not disappoint. Here are a few things you can do in St. Maarten to make your stay worthwhile.
Enjoy Local St. Maarten Cuisine
The whole island is known for its excellent cuisine. Unsurprising, as Creole, French, and West Indian cooking have significant culinary acclaim. Must try meals include, Conch & dumplings, Callaloo, and Johnny cakes. The latter bears similarities to American pancakes excerpt that this is made with cornmeal. Restaurants on the Island offers delicious barbecue which can be found in many of the barbecue shacks referred to as Lolos. Grab a taste of whelk soup, made with molluscs.
However, no meal in St. Maarten is complete if it is not accompanied with the island’s official drink, guava berry emporium liquor. Mutually enjoyed by the French and Dutch parts of the island, this drink comprises of small guava berries, sugarcanes, and locally made rum. This drink is used in a variety of fruits and cocktails.
Touring St. Maarten/ St. Martin Island
Although the island is controlled separately, there is no pass control or checks required to cross territories. Renting a car is the easiest and most convenient way to go around, as hopping taxis can be quite costly. Scooters are also very available, usually around the airports and city central, there can be rented from the airport rental kiosk. Local bus rides, their cost is low as compared to the taxis, it’s also a way to experience the local way of life.
The best way to have a rich mix of the serene aquatic terrain and the bubbling human activity on the island is by yacht charter. It is a sure way to traverse the 37 beaches, remote snorkelling spots, and glamorous tourist sites in complete freedom. Have full control over your experience by choosing yachting experts, Boasters Black. St. Maarten is a fun adventure that will leave fond memories and a tingling sensation in your tastebuds.
