When many think of an exotic Caribbean vacation, most people envision sparkling turquoise waters, pink and purple sunsets, a coconut cup filled with sweet rum punch and miles and miles of powdery beaches.
Yet, not every island is so cookie cutter in its offerings. Each Caribbean locale brings its own zesty flavors to what could be your ideal tropical getaway.
Introducing St. Maarten
Nestled in the northeastern part of the Caribbean cluster and just a hop, skip and seashell throw away from Anguilla, St. Maarten, which is part of the Netherlands, is a tiny island nation that shares part of its landmass with Saint Martin, a territory of France.
Both make up the smallest territory in the world to be governed by two different nations.
Although the span of this tropical paradise stretches just a mere 37 miles, the compelling culture, laid back lifestyle and dramatic attractions found in both countries make this island one of the most enriching and valuable travel destinations in the world.
Yet, the irresistible utopia of Dutch St. Maarten is distinctly different from its French neighbor, even though they share one island home. What’s the difference? Many name St. Marteen as the place for more upbeat fun.
St. Maarten: A place to play
Just a short two hour flight from Miami and four hours from New York, St. Maarten has long been considered a hot spot solely for the rich and famous. Bernard Hunt, Hotel Sales Director for the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort on the island believes that to no longer be the case. He proclaims that anyone seeking to have a vacation of a lifetime can come to St. Maarten without breaking the bank.
“We have to change the stigma of being a rich and famous landmark,” Hunt told theGrio. “This place is like home and we welcome everyone who’s seeking to experience a true Caribbean homegrown paradise.”
If adventure is a part of your vision of a perfect vacation, or you prefer to be in a relative state of inertia mentally and physically, St. Maarten has it all. We’ve compiled a list of “must do’s” when on the island, so you will be well-prepared.
For the thrill
There’s no better St. Maarten attraction than the beach itself, and Maho Beach doesn’t disappoint. Bordering the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and west of the Princess Juliana International Airport, Maho Beach is where the warm waters glisten under the sun and sunbathers relax and take in the breeze. Calypso music is often heard far in the distance.
However, the real attraction is way above sea level. Take a stroll to the northern end of Maho Beach for the most fascinating encounter you will ever have with a Boeing 747 jetliner. Travelers from all over the world flock to this specific spot on the beach to experience the incredible moment a jumbo jet descends right over their heads — so close that the passengers on board can see spectators waving. The only thing separating the beach from the tarmac is a small gate and a narrow road. This is truly an attraction for the ultimate thrill seeker and can only be experienced in St.Maarten. Planes soar in all day and night, but early afternoon between 2pm and 5pm is the best time to go.
And if that doesn’t give you a rush, walk a couple of steps inland to experience yet another unusual tradition called sandblasting. The danger signs seem to not make much of an impact because travelers still stand right at the edge of the beach to experience the dramatic moment an aircraft takes off — up close.
The blast, which is just a few feet away, can be so strong that gusts of sand are strewn into a tornado-like funnel and you are immediately blown away – many as far back as the water’s edge. This may be a bit much for the tame of heart, so there are many places along Maho Beach where calmer spectators can watch the daredevils in action and shake their heads in utter amazement.
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.