ISLAND ADVENTURES:
ST. MAARTEN “THE FRIENDLY ISLAND” Lush mountains, blue waters, impeccable beaches and top-notch cuisine - life in the Caribbean doesn’t get any better than beautiful St. Maarten. It’s one half of the smallest country in the world, and with more than 140 different cultures living harmoniously on the half French, half Dutch island’s 34 square miles, it’s no wonder this tropical oasis has been dubbed “The Friendly Island.” Whether you’re an adventure-seeker on the hunt for the next big thrill, or a laid-back beach bum searching for the perfect shore, St. Maarten has something for everyone. We’ve rounded up the top activities and sights to see on and around the island:
RAINFOREST ADVENTURES
Ideal for adrenaline junkies, Rainforest Adventures offers the world’s steepest zip line, The Flying Dutchman, plus breathtaking 360° views of the island. You can also take a leisurely ride on the Sky Explorer chairlift, a thrilling tube ride down the mountain on The Schooner, or a quick zip over the mountains on the Sentry Hill Zip Line. This is one island experience you don’t want to miss! For more details, visit www.rainforestadventure.com/pages/stmaarten.
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DOWNTOWN PHILIPSBURG
Just minutes from Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, Downtown Philipsburg boasts plenty of history and beauty. Take a guided tour of Front Street, shop till you drop at the many duty-free stores, or snap a picture at the iconic courthouse, which is adorned with a wooden pineapple, the international symbol for welcome. AQUA MANIA ADVENTURES
Offering boat tours, sunset sails, scuba diving and snorkeling adventures, jet ski experiences, day trips to surrounding islands and so much more, Aqua Mania Adventures is your one-stop-shop for water-related activities. Soar over waves on a high-speed jet ski, discover uninhabited islands and British territories with a trip to Prickly Pear and Anguilla, or visit the lush island of Saba, known as the “Unspoiled Queen” of the Caribbean for a hike to the top of Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Netherlands! For a romantic evening, book a sunset sail, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the famous green flash as the sun sets. Finally, be sure to check out the nearby underwater dive and snorkel site at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, where you can find a sunken helicopter, submarine, toilet and more just off shore. For more information, visit www.stmaartenactivities.com. LOTERIE FARM
This hidden gem, where you can wine, dine and relax in blissful peace, is nestled in the hillside of Pic Paradis on the French side of the island. The private nature reserve features plenty of pools, secluded cabanas, fabulous food from their on-site restaurant and bar, and a picturesque setting ideal for soaking up the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also zip lines, ropes courses, and hiking trails, and if you seek a lively party atmosphere, be sure to visit on Saturdays! For more information, visit loteriefarm.com.
