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This was one of my most enjoyable islands of this cruise. Sint Maarten (Dutch side) / Saint Martin (French side) at 9 miles by 8 miles is the smallest landmass shared by two nations. It has the oldest officially totally open border between two nations and residents and visitors can move freely with only a friendly Welcome sign to note the entry into another country. French (and some English) are spoken in St. Maarten and the Euro is the official currency. Dutch and English are spoken equally in St. Martin and the Netherlands Antillian Guilder is the official currency. US Dollars are accepted on both sides by many businesses. The island as a whole is noted for the most beaches and restaurants per square mile. The French side is known for a more relaxed feel with evenings ending at a nice dinner restaurant, while the Dutch side is more vibrant and energetic with an abundant nightlife. We docked in Philipsburg, St. Maarten (Dutch side) and I spent a couple hours exploring on my own in the morning, and then boarded an afternoon tour that took in both the Dutch and French sides of the island and ending with a party boat cruise (music, dancing, open bar) on Simpson Bay Lagoon which begins on the French side and ends on the Dutch side. Photos below will be prefixed with (DT) for the St. Maarten Dutch side and (FR) for the St. Martin French side and (PB) for photos taken from the lagoon party boat.
Created on 9/1/2024 10:55:17 PM
