The Caribbean Island of St Martin St Maarten

Saint Martin lies on the northern side of an island, which, uniquely, is shared between two nations, yet has no official border. Sint Maarten, the southern side of the island is part of the Netherland Antilles. St Martin is an overseas collectivity of the French Republic, with its own constitution, similar to the neighbouring island of St Barts. The French side of the island is part of the European Union. The atmosphere on the French side is a magnetic combination of Caribbean Creole and cosmopolitan France. The food is typically of high quality, yet you can dine in casual clothing. Some of the beach restaurants, particularly at Orient Bay, deliver menus that would grace the finest restaurant, without the price! Marigot, the capital is an eclectic mixture of open-air market, fresh fish stalls and high quality boutiques and restaurants. It has two marinas, the smaller and more sheltered of which, Marina Royale, allows you to lunch or dine within touching distance of the water's edge. The Dutch side can be livelier, with its discotheques and casinos. The shops in Front Street provide an unrivalled opportunity to buy high quality jewellery at duty free prices. Simpson Bay Lagoon, close to the airport, houses some of the most sumptuous private cruise yachts in the world. The beaches are clean and safe on both sides of the island and as the total area is only 37 square miles it is easy to tour.