Sun, swimming, lazy days and umbrella drinks – that’s what you do on St Martin.
France and Holland – 1 – 1 !! The island of Saint-Martin is part of the Leeward Islands archipelago east of Puerto Rico and was initially Spanish. However, the first European settlers were Dutch in 1631. For a couple of years, they fought several battles with the Spanish crown over the large salt deposits on the island. In 1648, the Spaniards gave up and the island was divided between the Dutch and the French, who also settled on the island. St. Martin is a center for yachting in the Caribbean. This has created a third urban area in the area around Simpson Bay Lagoon. This lagoon is protected by land masses on all sides, and the entrance is through an entrance with a drawbridge on Airport Road.
Saint Martin
The French part of the island is the relaxed and perfect environment for lazy holidays. Here is what you are looking for to have a really relaxing stay in the Caribbean archipelago. Gourmet restaurants, bars, beach hotels and fine beaches. Relaxa is just the first name. If you still want to move around, snorkeling and diving are good examples of activities on the island, or why not explore the mangrove swamps on the northern part of the island. Here are many birds that seek their food among the roots of mangroves.
St. Maarten
The Dutch part of the island has a different pace. Casinos, hectic nightlife, lively commerce of both time-share accommodation and shops with all possible offerings. The island is known to many to the airport in Simpsons Bay. It is highly recommended to stay long away when the flight starts and lands, otherwise you can get yourself an involuntary flight! Visit the port of Port de Plaisance and walk among really large luxury yachts.
The salt lakes and the beaches
The salines remain on the island and testify to the island’s once great industry – salt production. Today, they do not have the same significance as tourism is the island’s major source of income. Today you can find a rich wildlife in these areas. There are iguanas, frigate birds, pelicans, ospreys. Out at sea and the surrounding islands, if you are lucky you can see humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles.
Geography
According to countryaah, the island of Saint-Martin is part of the Leeward Islands archipelago east of Puerto Rico. It is divided into a French part in the north and a Dutch part in the south. The main airport is located in the Dutch part.
Climate
The climate, like the rest of the Caribbean, is tropical with an even temperature all year round. The island is located in a hurricane-affected area. Most rain falls between September and November, at the end of the hurricane season.
Visa
No – Swedish citizens can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Currency
Euro – EUR
1 EUR = 9.74 SEK
Language
French, English and Dutch are spoken on the island.
Vaccinations
Mandatory – The yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from certain countries in Africa or South America.
Recommended – Malaria prophylaxis, Children who have not had or previously been vaccinated against measles, mumps or rubella should be vaccinated against these diseases. Contact your vaccination center for personal needs.
La Samanna
An idyllic retreat with Caribbean style.
Captured by the contrasts of the French Caribbean: simultaneously elegant, romantic, exciting and wild. Located above St Martin’s most spectacular beach, this resort with elegant rooms and villas is as inviting as the crystal clear waters of the bay below. Elegance and tranquility are mixed in perfect harmony. However you choose to spend your time, a getaway here is the perfect time to relax and recharge.
Divi Little Bay Beach Resort
Discover the beauty and worldly charm of St. Maarten while vacationing at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort. Nestled on a private peninsula between two crystal clear bays – Little Bay and Great Bay – our resort offers stunning beaches, close to Phillipsburg the Dutch capital. Our suites and beach rooms offer convenient access to the beach and a fantastic view of our bays. Spend your days at one of our three freshwater pools or windsurfing, diving and shopping, or discover one of the island’s other attractions. It is just minutes from Princess Juliana International Airport, the Philipsburg Shopping District, the Grand Case and Marigot on the French side of St Martin.
Blue Bay Beach
Blue Bay Beach Hotel is located in Orient Bay, on the French side of the island of St. Martin. This 3-star hotel consists of 35 junior suites with large and well-furnished rooms and in a great location, less than a three-minute walk from the beach. Orient Bay is a 2 kilometer long white sand beach with the uninhabited islands of Green Cay and Pinel off the coast, it is known for its beach restaurants and parties. Orient Bay is also a great place to enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, kite surfing, SUP (stand up paddle) and jet skiing. In Orient Village you will find everything you need from restaurants to clothing stores, laundry and even a small supermarket. Of course, the traditional French bakery is close to the hotel.
