Ten interesting activities you can do while in St. Martin/St. Maarten.
10. Speak three foreign languages in a single day.
This spectacular Island is comprised of two countries: Dutch St. Maarten on the south side of the island and French St. Martin on the northern side. It's the smallest country in the world shared by two separate nations. Because the island is just 35 square miles, you can easily circle it by car in under two hours. Official currency on the entire island is the Euro, although the US dollar is almost always acceptable. English is spoken on both sides.
9. Learn to Play Baccarat. Or Roulette, or Black Jack.
At last count, St. Maarten boasts at least 12 casinos. You'll find several casinos along Front St. in Phillipsburg. Casino Royale at Sonesta's Maho Beach Resort is open til 4am for your pleasure. It includes a 1,000 seat theater featuring colorful and exciting showgirls, and offers free drinks for players. An on-line guide to the various games in available. Atlantis World Casino at Cupecoy is another spectacular casino also offering entertainment and multiple restaurants on site. These range from plush and exciting to merely overdone. Backgammon, Poker and Caribbean Poker Tournaments are held at various casinos on the island.
8. Parasail high above the picture postcard shoreline.
Parasailing, where passengers are harnessed into parachute and lifted up by the air pressure generated by a speed boat is available at many of the larger beaches. The timid can lay back and enjoy the colorful parachute sails as the fast boats take their passengers for a thrilling sky ride about 125 feet in the air, the gently floated back down to the beach. Although the ride last just about 10 minutes, it's an experience you're unlikely to forget. If you are brave enough to open your eyes, you can get a fantastic view of the islands coast line and beaches from your bird's eye altitude. Fees range from $25 to $50 for a single rider, up to $85 for a tandem ride (two riders). For those who prefer not to defy gravity, jet skis, small sail boats, banana boats and many other water playthings are available for rental at Orient Beach and some of the larger beaches.
7. Watch planes come into Queen Juliana Airport over Maho Bay.
The prominent sign on the road warns against standing under the low flying plane because the jets stir up a considerable wind causing dangerous flying debris. And they are not kidding. Some planes are so low you can almost touch their bellies. Grab a bar stool and a cold bear (my favorite is Presidente) at the beach shack bar, aptly named Sunset Beach Bar, and watch small planes and large jets pass by. Or, grab a chaise lounge on Maho Bay Beach-just make sure your things are well secured! This unusual activity is much more compelling and addicting than it sounds. When I arrived in my room at Maho Beach Resort (now operated by Sonesta), I was horrified to see planes nearly land don my balcony. Somehow, the noise is minimal and the view mesmerizing! If you prefer the awesome majesty of cruise ships, choose one of the many waterfront cafes in Phillipsburg along Great Bay Beach. Each day these breathtaking ships weight anchor in the harbor and send cruise ship passengers into the dock via tender. There is something magical about these great ships no matter how many times I see them.
6.Sail to exclusive St. Barths.
On this pristine island playground known to many a celebrity you'll find exclusive shops, charming cafe's, a distinctive French flair and more breathtaking beaches. For as fabulous burger al fresco, don't miss Le Select. Just seeing the crush of enormous yachts in the harbor is spectacular. A couple of regularly scheduled ferry services whisk you to and from this ritzy island paradise in under 45 minutes each way. The Rapid Explorer is one of the ferry charters providing high speed boats for your comfort. Departures begin at 7am, return as late as 6pm. Be sure to double check the schedule, as changes are made seasonally. One way $32 US, Round-trip $68-74.
5.Shop like the natives.
Forgot anything you need for a perfect beach day? Never fear. At Cost-U-Less, the islands answer to Sam's Club, you can get almost anything you need. Lost your polarized sunglasses? Pick up a pair for under $20. Need an extra towel and cooler? We picked up large fluffy ones for about $10 each, and a disposable cooler for about $3. But you can get fancy for about $10. In fact you can even pick up a chaise lounge of your own and save on the beach side rental fees. Not to mention value priced beer, wine and spirits. Groceries, produce and fresh baked pastries were also well stocked. If you are staying in a condo or villa, this place will be a lifesaver for you. Located on the road into Phillipsburg from Simpson Bay, across from Burger King.
4. Take a sunset cruise.
Several charters are available le to sail you along the scenic coast as the sun dips into the ocean. Most nights you'll be treated to a spectacular display of brilliant colors while sailing along the picturesque coastline. Most charters include either open bar and hors d'oeuvres or a full dinner. We watched the stunning 40 ft. catamaran Celine set sail one evening as we ate dinner on Simpson Bay. A 90 minute sunset sail costs about $55/pp. Several charter boats are available at the Marina area near Marigot, all spectacular yachts and sailboats for day or short trips.
3. Swim with the Sharks!
Dive Safaris of Simpson Bay of one of the many dive shops offering Shark Dives. While diving recently, I was a bit unnerved by a large fish swimming nearby which looked suspicious like a shark, along with a smaller friend. When I pointed this out to our divemaster, he gave a firm wave to the fish, who swam away. Turns out it was the sign for "kitchen's closed". The 6ft. Grey Reef Shark and remora eel knew it wasn't feeding time. Once I was out of the shark's "kitchen"-a large circular area at about 30 feet depth, cleared for divers to watch surrounding a bait box, I realized I had been treated to a rare and amazing sight. Friendly Divemasters lead the 40 minute excursion to this designated feeding area. You may see 10-15 Grey Reef Sharks, mostly females. Ranging from 2 to 10 ft, these creatures are truly awesome (and quite playful!). There are even some "regulars", named Big Mama, Scratch and Notch to name a few. These guided trips are offered only twice a week, so call ahead to schedule your adventure. Requires PADI Open Water Certification. About $115 USD, additional charges for equipment
2. Buy a gorgeous diamond. Remember your four C's: color, cut, carat and clarity. Because Amsterdam, commerce hub of the Netherlands and Europe is the center of the diamond trade some great bargains can be had. Additionally, purchases are duty free for even greater savings. Along Front St. Phillipsburg, you'll have literally hundreds of shops to choose from. Many of the larger dealers have a US headquarters and provide excellent customer service. Diamonds International, Little Switzerland and Diamond Creations are just a handful of the many shops you can find that have been in business for at least ten years. If you are thinking about a major jewelry purchase, this is a great place to shop because of the enormous variety and good values available.
1. Relax on one of the worlds most beautiful beaches.
You'll have over 37 to choose from. Try a different one each day of your stay. Whether you want the excitement and services available at the world famous Orient Beach (Baie Orientale), or a more private quiet day at a beach like Baie Longue, you won't be disappointed. On Oriental Beach, there are at least a dozen shacks serving a variety of beach fare and drinks of all kinds. You'll even find Kosher food (Paradiso)! All but the most remote beaches offer refreshments and chair/umbrella rental. Crystal blue waters and silky white sand await. Don't forget your sun screen, tops optional.
