For many people, planning a dream vacation brings to mind fun in the sun, sandy beaches, exotic locations, exciting nightlife and grand adventures. Opting to spend this special down time in the Caribbean offers up several amazing islands from which to choose, each with their own unique charms. The quaint isle of St Maarten provides travelers with a grand range of experiences and some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found 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.
Approximately two thirds of this island is the property of France and a member of the European Community. The remainder is held by the Dutch and falls under the realm belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The dual owners have had an arrangement for over 350 years that has helped to feed the area's success and promote peaceful coexistence.
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.
This island has a reputation for being the near perfect location for vacationing throughout the year. Its warm and sunny tropical climate provides temperatures that range from a pleasing mid sixty for the low, to a scorching upper ninety as the high, though the average hangs right around a comfortable 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Sporadic rain showers have a tendency to break out in the afternoons, cooling the heat of day and preparing for a soothing 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.
The island is surrounded by amazing beaches of sparkling white sands which are touted as some of the most beautiful on Earth. Simpson Bay Lagoon is the biggest in the Caribbean and is located here. This body of water is home to a truly impressive fleet of luxury yachts and would be entirely landlocked were it not for the two very narrow draw bridged channels allowing entrance and exit.
Whether taking a dip in the turquoise waters or riding a horse through the hills, there are adventures to be had for visitors of all types. To observe and commune with a variety of tropical fish of any color, snorkel among the living corals or to dive in the caves is to know the true beauty on the island. Ferries make daily jaunts to the neighboring land masses of St. Eustatius, St. Barths, Saba and Anguilla.
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.
Approximately two thirds of this island is the property of France and a member of the European Community. The remainder is held by the Dutch and falls under the realm belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The dual owners have had an arrangement for over 350 years that has helped to feed the area's success and promote peaceful coexistence.
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.
This island has a reputation for being the near perfect location for vacationing throughout the year. Its warm and sunny tropical climate provides temperatures that range from a pleasing mid sixty for the low, to a scorching upper ninety as the high, though the average hangs right around a comfortable 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Sporadic rain showers have a tendency to break out in the afternoons, cooling the heat of day and preparing for a soothing 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.
The island is surrounded by amazing beaches of sparkling white sands which are touted as some of the most beautiful on Earth. Simpson Bay Lagoon is the biggest in the Caribbean and is located here. This body of water is home to a truly impressive fleet of luxury yachts and would be entirely landlocked were it not for the two very narrow draw bridged channels allowing entrance and exit.
Whether taking a dip in the turquoise waters or riding a horse through the hills, there are adventures to be had for visitors of all types. To observe and commune with a variety of tropical fish of any color, snorkel among the living corals or to dive in the caves is to know the true beauty on the island. Ferries make daily jaunts to the neighboring land masses of St. Eustatius, St. Barths, Saba and Anguilla.
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