Getting Around
While an island transportation system does support this island and it's major point's of interest I found it best to rent a car(Jeep in my case)to get around. The island consist of 37 square miles and is easy to navigate. This being the case is just one of the reasons St. Martin makes the top five.
Shopping
Most resorts have gift shops or little shopping strips but the best places to shop on the island are either Phillipsburg on the Dutch side or Marigot on the French side. These downtown areas are quite charming and offer some very good deals on jewelery and other gift items.
Beaches
With the Atlantic Ocean on one side of the island and the Caribbean Sea on the other how could they not have wonderful beaches. Whether at Orient Bay on the east side of the island or Cupecoy on the west side of the island their is a beach for everyone. Some of the beaches are hustling with activities others are laid back. Some are long and expansive while others are hidden gems. While most are ok for entire families their are some clothing optional beaches around the island.
Nightlife
St. Martin - St. Maarten has Casinos and Nightclubs scattered about the island it seems to always have some sort of celebration going on between the two cultures (Dutch/French). Check with one of the many information booths on the island for current events,festivals,and celebrations.
Restaurants
St. Martin is well represented in the Caribbean with its top chefs and diverse creations of some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean. To recommend any one place over another would be an insult to the remainder and would only stifle your experience. I recommend you get out and about and when you get hungry stop where ever you desire. You really can not go wrong.
Where to Stay
Again this is a personal choice and you should select your resort,villa,house,hotel etc. Stay where ever you like and make that decision on what appeals to you. Once again the island is so easy to navigate you are never far from anything. I stay at the Le Flamboyant on the French side of the island, But again it is a personal choice.
Hope this helps you enjoy a wonderful island and remember: You're on vacation enjoy,relax,have fun.
Next on our list: Number 2 - Aruba
