When some people conjure a vision of a perfect vacation, they often see exotic locations, grand adventures, intriguing nightlife, beautiful beaches and lots of sun. The Caribbean offer many islands, each full of charm, for travelers to choose between. St Maarten is one of those and its scenery and adventures are among the best available 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.
The two thirds majority is included in the European Community as France is the owner. The other third is Dutch and considered a member in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Trade and other agreements between them has promoted the peaceful atmosphere and incredible success that has engulfed this land for over three hundred and fifty years.
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.
The year long, near perfect environment for enjoyment and relaxation is one of the island's more popular attributes. The tropical climate offers plenty of sunshine and temperatures that go between mid range sixties as the lows, to sometimes close to one hundred for a high, though the average runs about a pleasant seventy-eight degrees Fahrenheit. The heat is often disrupted by short and sudden rain showers in the afternoons which set the atmosphere for a wonderful evening.
The breathtaking scenery is yet another attribute to this tropical paradise. The interior of this island is dominated by a central mountain range that provides the perfect terrain for hiking, exploring, zip lining or simply communing with nature. The rolling hills and winding roads are dotted with several small villages offering local charm and unique shopping experiences.
All around the island are some of the most incredible white sanded beaches ever seen. The largest in the Caribbean, Simpson Bay Lagoon is a prime spot for prime relaxation. With the exception of just two narrow, draw bridge spanned channels, the area is completely landlocked yet holds a sizable fleet of luxurious yachts and still boasts ample room for the vessels to actually take a casual sail.
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.
The two thirds majority is included in the European Community as France is the owner. The other third is Dutch and considered a member in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Trade and other agreements between them has promoted the peaceful atmosphere and incredible success that has engulfed this land for over three hundred and fifty years.
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.
The year long, near perfect environment for enjoyment and relaxation is one of the island's more popular attributes. The tropical climate offers plenty of sunshine and temperatures that go between mid range sixties as the lows, to sometimes close to one hundred for a high, though the average runs about a pleasant seventy-eight degrees Fahrenheit. The heat is often disrupted by short and sudden rain showers in the afternoons which set the atmosphere for a wonderful evening.
The breathtaking scenery is yet another attribute to this tropical paradise. The interior of this island is dominated by a central mountain range that provides the perfect terrain for hiking, exploring, zip lining or simply communing with nature. The rolling hills and winding roads are dotted with several small villages offering local charm and unique shopping experiences.
All around the island are some of the most incredible white sanded beaches ever seen. The largest in the Caribbean, Simpson Bay Lagoon is a prime spot for prime relaxation. With the exception of just two narrow, draw bridge spanned channels, the area is completely landlocked yet holds a sizable fleet of luxurious yachts and still boasts ample room for the vessels to actually take a casual sail.
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.
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