Destination Spotlight: St. Martin
Destination Spotlight: St. Martin
Whether you visit Saint Martin or Sint Maarten, this small island is perfect for adventurers. It’s only 37 square miles, meaning you can travel from the most eastern point to the most western point in a day. We’re recommending getting around because you won’t want to miss a thing. St. Martin is typically viewed as a pit stop for cruise ships but the country is small and mighty. White sand beaches surround the peninsula, so swimming, water sports, and beachcombing should be on your itinerary. Here’s everything you need to know about this fantastic destination.
Sint Maarten
This half of the island is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It includes most of the tourist attractions and resorts including the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. You can spend your time on the Dutch side strolling wide boardwalks, shopping at duty-free shops, enjoying cocktails at vibrant beach bars, taking in some live music at revues or rolling dice into the early morning hours at casinos. If you’re not exhausted from the exciting nightlife, try out some fun water activities like fishing, diving, snorkeling, windsurfing and sailing.
Saint Martin
The French half of the island is perfect for all the boating enthusiasts. There’s a beautiful harbor with multicoloured boats as far as the eye can see. The landscape features a variety of cliffs with houses covering the sprawling terrain. You’ll feel like you’re in a European fishing village without having to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Saint Martin also boasts the most incredible food on any of the Caribbean islands. You can grab a meal at any of the lolos, or tiny restaurants that specialize in Creole cuisine. If you find yourself there on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, browse local produce, unique spices, and fresh off the boat fish at the Marigot Market.
Mount Concordia
This mountain is right on the border of Saint Martin and Sint Maarten. The hike is definitely worth the incredible view of the island at the top. You can additionally tour the ruins of an old sugar plantation and learn more about the island’s interesting history.
When to Go
Peak season to travel to the island is predictably the Canadian winter months. From December to April, the country is bustling with tourists. The Heineken Regatta takes place during at this time over four days. Thousands of sailors from 35 countries around the world participate in the races. In 2019, the Heineken Regatta will run from February 28th to March 3rd. If boating doesn’t interest you, there are four nights of music and entertainment that go on once the sailboats are put away in Sint Maarten Yacht Club.
The off-season runs from July to October. You may be tempted to visit at this time of year for a tourist-free vacation but we recommend avoiding it as it is hurricane season. It’s very likely that your travel plans will be affected by the weather so steer clear.
The island of Saint Martin/Sint Maarten is a gorgeous and completely underrated destination. NovaJet Aviation Group will get you there in style and comfort. Contact us today to kickstart your dream Caribbean vacation.
