St. Maarten stands out as an island where Caribbean island culture combines with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. It holds the record for being the smallest territory in the world ever to have been partitioned between two nations; this island has been harmoniously shared by The Netherlands and France for over 350 years.
Sint Maarten is one of the five Dutch Caribbean island territories within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is one of the leeward (northern) Caribbean islands, located approximately 150 miles southeast of Puerto Rico. The French part (roughly 2/3 of the island’s surface) stands for European sophistication with its secluded beaches, open air markets and shops, lining the waterfront in Mediterranean style. The Dutch part bustles with a combination of lively beaches, hotels, (duty–free) shops, casinos and a vibrant nightlife.
| Capital | Philipsburg (Dutch side) |
| Other towns | Marigot (French side) |
| Language(s) | English, Dutch and French |
| Population | Approximately 41,000 inhabitants |
| Political Status | Currently an island territory within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, planned to become an autonomous country |
| Area | 87 km² (54 sq. miles) |
| Currency | Dutch Antillean Guilder/Florin (AWG), EURO (French part), dollars are widely accepted |
| Climate | Average year-round temperatures between 25 and 30c (66 and 86F) |
| Selected Main Attractions | Marigot, Ford Amsterdam, Simpson Bay, over 30 beaches and an ample selection of day trips by boat or car |
| Shopping | Tax-free shopping in downtown Philipsburg, Marigot and the resorts, from jewelry to caviar to rum, cigars and (designer) clothing and accessories |
| Electrical Current | Dutch part: 110 V, 60 Hz French part: 220 volts, 50 Hz |
Last Updated on Monday, 03 January 2011 20:07
