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ST MARTIN VACATION
Exploring Both Sides: St. Martin / St. Maarten
By Caitlin Moore
Contrary to the trends of the day, which tend to lean towards
partisanship, disagreement and divisiveness, there is a place that is
the meeting of two distinct cultures - an island nonetheless - where
people live in harmony. Two countries staked their claim on this
scenic spot in the Caribbean, but instead of causing problems it has
become something rich and complex. Depending on where you stand
it is either St. Martin or St. Maarten, but either way you’re in for a
vacation filled with sensory stimulation, relaxation and a newfound
appreciation for the peaceful melding of two ways of life.
Partitioned between the French and the Dutch, St. M. epitomizes the
idea of fun and openness. The border doesn’t stand out as something
to be feared or even strictly recognized; rather, tourists cross back and
forth throughout their visit probably without even knowing when and
where they did so. It’s always intriguing to explore a foreign land, and
a visit here is like seeing two countries in one.
The French side is reminiscent of the kind of classy coastal paradise
that you’d find in the south of the mother country. Fine restaurants,
sophisticated fashions and a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere of
joie de vivre characterize the beaches, resorts, streets and cafes. The
Danish side is a bit busier and more businesslike. Tourism is the
main focus here, and the bustle and noise of commerce and
transportation kick up the energy level without causing undo
discomfort. Wherever your wanderings take you, you’ll be fascinated
by the sights and sounds of St. Martin and St. Maarten.
This is the Caribbean, after all, so the beach plays a primary role in
setting the scene. There are almost 40 beaches to choose from and
are distributed throughout the island. White sands, coral reefs,
clothing optional (how very European) and rugged cliff-hugging
stretches of coastline all add depth and dimension to the offerings.
From secluded to a bit more crowded, there’s something here for
every taste.
Lounging with a drink in hand is one way to see the shore, but getting
a little adventurous must be attempted as well. Snorkeling, sailing,
parasailing and jet skiing are a few activities that will infuse some
excitement into your day. Divers will love the clear blue waters and
ample hotspots around here, including a submerged English
battleship in the Great Bay. Gear and instruction are readily available,
so be sure that a thrilling yet safe time can be had by all.
Back on dry land there’s much to see and do as well. Hiking the miles
of designated footpaths through the mountains and down by the shore
will reveal the island’s beauty from a number of different angles.
Horseback riding provides another vantage point, and to bump up the
cardio factor another notch play a game of tennis or a round of golf.
Staying fit and healthy won’t resemble the drudgery of working out at
the gym back home; here, it’ll be a joy to work up a sweat and burn a
few calories as you make your tour of this colorful island.
Exercising will also allow you to feel less guilt about indulging in a
cocktail here or a delicious meal there. You’ll run across fresh
croissants on the French side as well as places to have long lavish
meals, or if you’re in the mood for efficiency grab a bite at a casual
Caribbean food stand along the beach. Seafood and shellfish are of
course readily on hand everywhere you look, too. All in all, St. Martin/St.
Maarten is known for its splendid culinary offerings, so foodies take
note.
Markets, the French Quarter, a butterfly farm and so much more
almost complete the picture of a perfectly delightful getaway for you
and your lucky traveling companion or companions. The only aspect of
the trip yet to be mentioned is lodging. For a fabulous vacation, it is
imperative to book fabulous accommodations, so consider reserving
a St Martin/St. Maarten Vacation Rental that will complement the
overall mood of the trip.
Vacation rentals are filled with specialized amenities, lots of space,
tasteful décor and conveniences the likes of which your last few hotel
experiences just haven’t measured up to. Go online to check out the
different options – they range from cozy artist’s retreats to spacious
villas fit for royalty – and then secure the one that calls your name. It
won’t matter which side of the island you end up on, both will welcome
you with open arms.
Visit HomeAway.com for all your vacation rental needs.
Exploring Both Sides: St. Martin / St. Maarten
By Caitlin Moore
Contrary to the trends of the day, which tend to lean towards
partisanship, disagreement and divisiveness, there is a place that is
the meeting of two distinct cultures - an island nonetheless - where
people live in harmony. Two countries staked their claim on this
scenic spot in the Caribbean, but instead of causing problems it has
become something rich and complex. Depending on where you stand
it is either St. Martin or St. Maarten, but either way you’re in for a
vacation filled with sensory stimulation, relaxation and a newfound
appreciation for the peaceful melding of two ways of life.
Partitioned between the French and the Dutch, St. M. epitomizes the
idea of fun and openness. The border doesn’t stand out as something
to be feared or even strictly recognized; rather, tourists cross back and
forth throughout their visit probably without even knowing when and
where they did so. It’s always intriguing to explore a foreign land, and
a visit here is like seeing two countries in one.
The French side is reminiscent of the kind of classy coastal paradise
that you’d find in the south of the mother country. Fine restaurants,
sophisticated fashions and a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere of
joie de vivre characterize the beaches, resorts, streets and cafes. The
Danish side is a bit busier and more businesslike. Tourism is the
main focus here, and the bustle and noise of commerce and
transportation kick up the energy level without causing undo
discomfort. Wherever your wanderings take you, you’ll be fascinated
by the sights and sounds of St. Martin and St. Maarten.
This is the Caribbean, after all, so the beach plays a primary role in
setting the scene. There are almost 40 beaches to choose from and
are distributed throughout the island. White sands, coral reefs,
clothing optional (how very European) and rugged cliff-hugging
stretches of coastline all add depth and dimension to the offerings.
From secluded to a bit more crowded, there’s something here for
every taste.
Lounging with a drink in hand is one way to see the shore, but getting
a little adventurous must be attempted as well. Snorkeling, sailing,
parasailing and jet skiing are a few activities that will infuse some
excitement into your day. Divers will love the clear blue waters and
ample hotspots around here, including a submerged English
battleship in the Great Bay. Gear and instruction are readily available,
so be sure that a thrilling yet safe time can be had by all.
Back on dry land there’s much to see and do as well. Hiking the miles
of designated footpaths through the mountains and down by the shore
will reveal the island’s beauty from a number of different angles.
Horseback riding provides another vantage point, and to bump up the
cardio factor another notch play a game of tennis or a round of golf.
Staying fit and healthy won’t resemble the drudgery of working out at
the gym back home; here, it’ll be a joy to work up a sweat and burn a
few calories as you make your tour of this colorful island.
Exercising will also allow you to feel less guilt about indulging in a
cocktail here or a delicious meal there. You’ll run across fresh
croissants on the French side as well as places to have long lavish
meals, or if you’re in the mood for efficiency grab a bite at a casual
Caribbean food stand along the beach. Seafood and shellfish are of
course readily on hand everywhere you look, too. All in all, St. Martin/St.
Maarten is known for its splendid culinary offerings, so foodies take
note.
Markets, the French Quarter, a butterfly farm and so much more
almost complete the picture of a perfectly delightful getaway for you
and your lucky traveling companion or companions. The only aspect of
the trip yet to be mentioned is lodging. For a fabulous vacation, it is
imperative to book fabulous accommodations, so consider reserving
a St Martin/St. Maarten Vacation Rental that will complement the
overall mood of the trip.
Vacation rentals are filled with specialized amenities, lots of space,
tasteful décor and conveniences the likes of which your last few hotel
experiences just haven’t measured up to. Go online to check out the
different options – they range from cozy artist’s retreats to spacious
villas fit for royalty – and then secure the one that calls your name. It
won’t matter which side of the island you end up on, both will welcome
you with open arms.
Visit HomeAway.com for all your vacation rental needs.
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