St. Martin & Sint Maarten – One Island, 2 Countries

One of the peculiarities of the Caribbean is that the distance between two islands can be as little as an hour and you can still find yourself in a completely new world. This contrast is particularly evident when heading from a destination to the island of Sint Maarten. The peace and tranquillity that can be found on many of the smaller islands is exchanged here for cosmopolitanism and a permanently active nightlife. St. Maarten has become the pulse of the Caribbean and is now a sought-after destination for vacationers from all over the world. The island itself can boast some interesting features.

The divided island of St. Martin & Sint Maarten

A special feature of the island still shapes life here today: St. Martin is an overseas territory of two European nations. Only here is there a separate border crossing in the middle of the Caribbean on one of the islands. It is possible to cross the French and Dutch sides (Sint Maarten belonged to the Netherlands Antilles until 2010) with relatively little effort, because even before the introduction of freedom of movement through Schengen, there were corresponding agreements between the originally colonial masters of the island. It is perhaps this peculiarity that has ensured that the reputation of St. Martin and its cosmopolitanism has emerged. Meanwhile, the island is not only popular with tourists who want to experience a little of the island’s culture, but also the jet set, i.e. the rich and famous, are regular guests on the island. If you want to go on holiday to St. Martin – or Sint Maarten – you have a wide variety of models available. On the one hand, of course, there is the classic relaxing holiday in the Caribbean. On no other island have so many luxurious resorts and hotels been built in the last two decades, where holidaymakers can simply unwind and be pampered. The walk to one of the wonderful white sandy beaches is short and within a short time you are on an adventure of swimming, exploring, feasting and diving. But adventure holidays are also possible on the island. Those who come to the island for parties will not be disappointed either.

What is there to see on St. Martin?

Compared to other Caribbean islands, St. Martin is rather flat and therefore there are no large volcanoes to dominate the picture. Instead, it is mainly the beaches that enjoy a high degree of popularity and popularity all over the world. They can be found everywhere. The most famous of them even runs directly under the approach path of the island’s airport and is known for the pictures of tourists who can almost touch the undersides of the planes on their approach. Of course, the two capitals of the island are also of special charm. Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch part, for example, is known for still having the charm of the colonial era and offers tourists an interesting insight into the era. If you want to see a little more of the island, you can rent a car and take a tour around the island either on your own or with guides. Even today, traces and testimonies of the past can be found here, showing a little of the island’s eventful history. In the end, however, you always end up on a beach and can enjoy this wonder of nature when you plunge into the waters at 28 to 42 degrees in summer and enjoy the pure sea. If you are a fan of diving, St. Martin is also the perfect base for your own activities. The seas of the Caribbean are not known all over the world for nothing. Many old ships from the time of the settlers can also be found on St. Martin and the seabed is an adventure playground for those who seek their fortune below sea level.

Culinary delights and life on the island of St. Martin

Compared to other islands in the region, St. Martin is more European. This means that there is a typical restaurant and club life here, which you would also find at a holiday resort on the mainland. Nevertheless, the Caribbean charm remains, which can be found especially in the restaurants. The combination of European cuisine with Caribbean cuisine is interesting and conjures up many an exciting dish. If you still feel like doing something afterwards, you will certainly find a place in the many clubs and bars that make up the famous nightlife of the island.

Special sights and museums on St. Martin & Sint Maarten

1. Maho Beach

Maho Beach is world-famous for the planes that land just a few meters above the heads of bathers.
Located right next to Princess Juliana International Airport on Sint Maarten, the beach is a unique experience for any visitor.

2. Loterie Farm

Loterie Farm is a nature reserve on St. Martin that offers hiking, ziplining, and a luxurious pool area.
It is the perfect place to enjoy the tropical nature and relax.

3. Fort Louis

Fort Louis is a historic fortress located in Marigot, St. Martin.
From the fortress you have a spectacular view over the city, the bay and the surrounding islands.
It is a must-see for history buffs.

4. Sint Maarten Museum

This small but informative museum in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, offers insight into the island’s history, culture, and nature.
It’s a great place to learn about the local people and their history.

5. Butterfly Farm

The Butterfly Farm is a magical place on St. Martin, where you can see hundreds of butterflies from all over the world in a tropical setting.
It is especially popular with families and nature lovers.

Hotels on St. Martin & Sint Maarten

1. Belmond La Samanna (Luxury Hotel)

• Address: Baie Longue, Terres Basses, St. Martin
• Description: A luxurious beachfront resort that offers a blend of elegance and relaxation.
  It features suites and villas with breathtaking sea views.

2. Sonesta Maho Beach Resort (4-star hotel)

• Address: Rhine Rd, Maho Village, Sint Maarten
• Description: An all-inclusive resort near the famous Maho Beach, known for its comprehensive amenities and lively atmosphere.

3. Holland House Beach Hotel (3-star hotel)

• Address: Front St 45, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
• Description: A stylish beachfront hotel in the heart of Philipsburg, ideal for travelers who want to be close to the action.

4. Hevea Hotel (Budget Hotel)

• Address: 163 Boulevard de Grand Case, Grand Case, St. Martin
• Description: A charming little hotel in Grand Case that offers cozy rooms at affordable rates.

Popular restaurants on St. Martin & Sint Maarten

1. Le Pressoir

• Address: 30 Boulevard de Grand Case, Grand Case, St. Martin
• Description: An elegant restaurant in a historic building that offers French cuisine with a modern twist.

2. The Palms

• Address: 25 Airport Rd, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten
• Description: A relaxed restaurant in Simpson Bay that serves international cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

3. L’Auberge Gourmande

• Address: 89 Boulevard de Grand Case, Grand Case, St. Martin
• Description: A gourmet French restaurant in Grand Case, known for its excellent cuisine and personalized service.

4. Pineapple Pete

• Address: Welfare Rd, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten
• Description: A popular restaurant serving Caribbean and international dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Getting to St. Martin & Sint Maarten

From Germany to St. Martin & Sint Maarten:

1. Flights to St. Martin/Sint Maarten:
   • There are no direct flights from Germany to St. Martin/Sint Maarten.
     Travelers usually have to fly through larger airports in Europe (such as Paris, Amsterdam) or the United States (such as Miami, New York).
   • From Paris: Air France and KLM offer direct flights from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY) to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on Sint Maarten.
   • From Amsterdam: KLM offers direct flights from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to SXM.
2. Connecting:
   • Connecting flights from major airports in the United States (Miami, New York, Atlanta) to SXM are also a common option.
3. Duration of the trip:
   • The flight time from Europe (e.g. Paris or Amsterdam) to Sint Maarten is about 8-9 hours.

Article updated on August 18, 2024