Top 5 Reasons for Visiting SXM
Many visitors return to St. Maarten/St. Martin again and again to enjoy the island’s 37 sun-kissed beaches and all the wonders at sea. But there’s more to this scenic slice of paradise than just sun, sand and sea.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is a world-class destination packed with first-rate attractions and amenities. Yet for all its sophistication, the island radiates a welcoming feel. No wonder it’s known throughout the West Indies as the “Friendly Island.” Folks feel at home here every time they visit. Here are the top five reasons to put this island on your must-visit, must-return-to list of destinations.
- Consistency and Familiarity
St. Maarten/St. Martin is well developed but by no means overdeveloped. Laze away a sunny afternoon on a pristine beach and then treat yourself to a spa massage. Resorts and other accommodations are world class, offering every sort of creature comfort. A high standard of living and dependable infrastructure make St. Maarten/St. Martin a holiday destination you’ll want to visit again and again.
- Activities and Attractions
Small in size, St. Maarten/St. Martin towers over other islands when it comes to recreation. Your options are practically unlimited. You can play the day away on water and on land, try your luck at a casino table, meet up with pals at a beach bar or simply tap your toes to a beguiling island beat.
- Food, Spirits and Nightlife
The island’s reputation as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean” is well deserved, especially in towns like Grand Case, on the French side. Top chefs from around the world come to the island to stir the melting pot and blend the diverse flavors brought here by its settlers. Book a table or fill a picnic basket with a round of Gouda imported from the Netherlands and a fine wine brought in from France.
- Caribbean and Cosmopolitan
Since the 17th century, the island has been shared by The Netherlands and France, and each side reflects the distinctive ambience of its mother country. To sample the culture of both countries, just cross the border. No passport is required. In addition, St. Maarten/St. Martin is a melting pot of cultures. More than 120 nationalities are represented here.
- Location, Location, Location
It’s easy to reach this crossroads in the Leeward Islands, where the northeastern Caribbean Sea meets the western Atlantic Ocean. It’s a neighbor of regional transportation hub Puerto Rico, and several airlines fly directly to Princess Juliana International Airport from France, the Netherlands, the United States and Canada. St. Maarten/St. Martin is also a favorite port of call for most major cruise lines and makes a great base for island hopping.