For many people, planning a dream vacation brings to mind fun in the sun, sandy beaches, exotic locations, exciting nightlife and grand adventures. Opting to spend this special down time in the Caribbean offers up several amazing islands from which to choose, each with their own unique charms. The quaint isle of St Maarten provides travelers with a grand range of experiences and some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found anywhere.
This tiny little Caribbean island has the unique distinction of being the smallest land mass worldwide, to simultaneously belong to two separate nations. Though a mere thirty-seven square miles in size, it is owned by both France and The Netherlands Antilles. The split has existed peacefully for hundreds of years and has actually proven beneficial to all involved.
Approximately two thirds of this island is the property of France and a member of the European Community. The remainder is held by the Dutch and falls under the realm belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The dual owners have had an arrangement for over 350 years that has helped to feed the area's success and promote peaceful coexistence.
The success comes in part from the fact that there is no physical separation between the two sides, allowing the population to interact as a single community, leaving the landscape undisturbed and the visitors to feel at ease. All may traverse the island freely and partake in all the wonderful offerings it has at its disposal. It is amazing how much adventure can fit into such a small space.
One the thing the island is best known for is that the atmosphere and the environment is near perfect for vacationing at any time during the year. The climate s sunny and tropical in nature with comfortably warm temperatures ranging from the lows of mid sixties, the highs around the upper nineties and the average being a very pleasing 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Sporadic afternoon rain showers serve to break the heat and set the tone for a wonderful evening.
This paradise of the tropics is an oasis of breathtaking beauty and inspirational scenery. A mountain range is at the center of this island and its rolling hills provide an excellent backdrop for adventures such as zip lining, horseback riding, exploring, hiking or just meditating and finding one's connection with nature. Small, charming villages are located sporadically, allowing visitors to experience the unique cultures and do some shopping for local goods.
The white sand beaches that surround the perimeter of this island are among the most beautiful ever seen. This is also the home of Simpson Bay Lagoon, the largest in all of the Caribbean. Completely landlocked except for two small channels which are spanned by draw bridges, the area is larch enough to house a huge fleet of luxury yachts and still have room for comfortable sailing.
From swimming in the amazing turquoise water to exploring the hills on horseback, there are hundreds of interesting thing to do for people of all ages and interests. Those who crave adventure may want to try some snorkeling among the corals or diving within the many caves to observe the bevy of colorful tropical fish. The nightlife is incredible and ferries run daily among the neighboring islands of Anguilla, Saba, St. Barths and St. Eustatius.
This tiny little Caribbean island has the unique distinction of being the smallest land mass worldwide, to simultaneously belong to two separate nations. Though a mere thirty-seven square miles in size, it is owned by both France and The Netherlands Antilles. The split has existed peacefully for hundreds of years and has actually proven beneficial to all involved.
Approximately two thirds of this island is the property of France and a member of the European Community. The remainder is held by the Dutch and falls under the realm belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The dual owners have had an arrangement for over 350 years that has helped to feed the area's success and promote peaceful coexistence.
The success comes in part from the fact that there is no physical separation between the two sides, allowing the population to interact as a single community, leaving the landscape undisturbed and the visitors to feel at ease. All may traverse the island freely and partake in all the wonderful offerings it has at its disposal. It is amazing how much adventure can fit into such a small space.
One the thing the island is best known for is that the atmosphere and the environment is near perfect for vacationing at any time during the year. The climate s sunny and tropical in nature with comfortably warm temperatures ranging from the lows of mid sixties, the highs around the upper nineties and the average being a very pleasing 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Sporadic afternoon rain showers serve to break the heat and set the tone for a wonderful evening.
This paradise of the tropics is an oasis of breathtaking beauty and inspirational scenery. A mountain range is at the center of this island and its rolling hills provide an excellent backdrop for adventures such as zip lining, horseback riding, exploring, hiking or just meditating and finding one's connection with nature. Small, charming villages are located sporadically, allowing visitors to experience the unique cultures and do some shopping for local goods.
The white sand beaches that surround the perimeter of this island are among the most beautiful ever seen. This is also the home of Simpson Bay Lagoon, the largest in all of the Caribbean. Completely landlocked except for two small channels which are spanned by draw bridges, the area is larch enough to house a huge fleet of luxury yachts and still have room for comfortable sailing.
From swimming in the amazing turquoise water to exploring the hills on horseback, there are hundreds of interesting thing to do for people of all ages and interests. Those who crave adventure may want to try some snorkeling among the corals or diving within the many caves to observe the bevy of colorful tropical fish. The nightlife is incredible and ferries run daily among the neighboring islands of Anguilla, Saba, St. Barths and St. Eustatius.
