St. Maarten: The Caribbean’s hidden secret

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For the chill

St. Maarten is the perfect destination for relaxation, rejuvenation and for some serious beach therapy. From Maho Beach to Mullet Bay Beach, tranquility is just a ‘sand between the toes’ walk away. Curl up with a good book, or just watch the day go by under the Caribbean sun. While enjoying a day at the beach, don’t be surprised if a friendly lady comes over to pamper you with a sublimely soothing foot massage using fresh aloe right from the leaf.

If you’re looking to experience the authentic flavor of the island, stay cool with the legendary folk liquor of St. Maarten known as the Guavaberry. This homegrown libation is made from rare St. Maarten guavaberries, oak-aged rum and cane sugar. Make sure to take a trip down to the Guavaberry Emporium retail shop located on Front Street in Phillipsburg to enjoy daily free tastings.

For art and culture buffs

Right in the heart of Philipsburg on the southeast corner of Front Street, houses a tiny, magnificent emporium of history built in the 1800’s that showcases the traditions, biodiversity and captivating timeline of St. Maarten. As the only museum on the Dutch side of the island, the St. Maarten Heritage Museum boasts displays of the early settlers known as Arawaks. Exhibits include spiritual and religious artifacts, traditional clothing and artwork. Museum Director Elsie Bosch takes pride in the history and culture of St. Maarten, which have changed her life.

“When I came here, I was enthralled by the friendliness, hospitality, decency, high level of civilization and ethics… of the population,” Bosch shared. “It gave me the urge to become part of it, respect it, and adapt my way of living to it.”

From agricultural exhibits, to a collage of Antillean stamps, the Heritage Museum lives up to its vision of providing insight into St. Maarten’s heritage.

Best time to go

Although a paradise getaway like St. Maarten can be enjoyed all year round, the best time to plan a trip to visit depends on what you’re looking for. The temperature is pretty moderate and dry throughout the year and any rain is light and quick.

For the budget-conscious traveler, the summer is a good time to visit. However, great rates are still available for travel between October until early December. If you are looking to be in the center of it all, high season, which is from late December to April, pulls in larger crowds and is a bit pricier. Either way, it’s never to early or late to start planning that dream Caribbean vacation to St. Maarten.

Have you traveled to St. Maarten? Tell us about your most memorable experience.

Wanjira Banfield writes about travel and entertainment for theGrio. You can find her at  www.wanjirasworld.com and follow her on Twitter @wanjirasworld.