1. Luna: Flex’it gold necklace $ 22,750
2. Luna: Flex’it gold bracelet $ 10,500
3. Essentials: Flex’it earrings with diamonds $ 4,760
4. Solo: Flex’it gold bracelets with diamond rondel $ 6,190
5. Panorama: Flex’it gold ring with diamonds $ 4,540
FOPE is an Italian international fine jewelry brand. The HQs and production facilities are located in Vicenza, Italy, where the company was established in 1929. Today all jewelry is still proudly made in-house thanks to a unique combination of craftsmanship and bespoke technology. The brand’s patented 18 carat gold Flex’it mesh makes each jewel elegant and comfortable with a contemporary twist.
Vahan ®, Alwand Vahan ®, Moiré Pattern ® are Regd. Trademarks | Designs © Alwand Vahan Jewelry Ltd
Joe’s Jewelry 40, 60, 66 Front Street, Philipsburg, St. Maarten (721) 543-7020 www.JoesJewelry.com
May-Ling Chun Director, St. Maarten Tourism Bureau
Welcome to St. Maarten/ St. Martin — one of the bestknown tourism destinations in the Caribbean. Whether it is our uniquely binational character, our island’s famed 37 beaches, or its lush green hills, we have something for everyone to explore.
Did you know that the name “Sint Maarten” was given by the Dutch in honor of the Roman Saint Martin of Tours? However, the island’s first inhabitants, the Amerindians, used the name “Soualiga,” the land of salt, or “Oualichi,” the land of the brave and beautiful women. It seems the name was prophetic, as though the Amerindians no longer inhabit the island, the brave and beautiful women still do. The words Soualiga and Oualichi, along with other Caribbean place names, suggest strong linguistic evidence that people came from Africa to the Caribbean long before the Europeans.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is known as “The Friendly Island” in honor of its openness to visitors and free trade. The 1648 Treaty of Concordia, which divided the island between the Kingdom of France and the Dutch Republic while allowing the people of St. Maarten/ St. Martin to coexist cooperatively, perhaps laid the friendly foundation, fostering a willingness to assist one another to realize plans one cannot accomplish on one’s own. Even today, family, friends, and neighbors come together to help you build your house, bringing food and drinks to celebrate goodwill and generosity. With the rapid growth of the economy and the population, mostly through immigration, this and other traditions evolved into a vibrant, welcoming hospitality sector.
As a former St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association board member, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin 2023 edition. The book in your hands is testament to a year of joint growth by public, private,
and nonprofit NGO tourism partners, as many new initiatives have flourished since the last Visit edition.
Take the new mural walk through Philipsburg, a celebration of the great creative talent on island that invites you to explore our beautiful beachfront capital.
Another new initiative is St. Maarten Flavors Month, a fantastic example of achievement when public and private sector stand together. We invite you to sample our many restaurants’ offerings during this event’s second edition, featuring a prix fixe menu from small local eateries to the exclusive at highly reduced prices.
Create your vacation itinerary with Visit as your guide and you’ll soon realize that no St. Maarten/St. Martin holiday needs to be the same. Visit “The Friendly Island” again and again, where our diverse options offer you a new experience every time!
Sincerely, May-Ling Chun
Joes Jewelry
40, 60, 66 Front Street, Philipsburg, St. Maarten JoesJewelry.com
Paul Henriquez President, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA)
Welcome back if you have been here before. Let this edition of Visit St. Maarten/ St. Martin inspire the creation of some magnificent memories. We have something for everyone! Even if you have been here many times before, there’s always an adventure and
something new to explore; or if you prefer, just kick back and relax.
The following pages will guide you to extraordinary experiences, marvelous shopping, fabulous culinary delights, and sensational sights.
Whatever it is you are looking for, you are sure to find it in St. Maarten/ St. Martin — so please head out there and enjoy all that this wonderful island has to
offer. From all the things you can decide to take back home, we are sure those magnificent memories will last you a lifetime.
What are you waiting for? There’s no time like the present.
Sincerely, Paul Henriquez
Wyb Meijer Executive Director, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA)
Welcome to the most beautiful, varied and vibrant island in the Caribbean!
We are grateful you chose our island as your destination. Whether you arrive by plane or boat, you’ll be amazed by the island’s natural beauty and the wide array of wonderful things to do here.
St. Maarten/St. Martin boasts 37 pristine, white-sand beaches; lush green hills; and clear blue seas. We have a large underwater landscape to explore. Scuba divers and snorkelers can explore reefs and wrecks. You can zip around on a Jet Ski or take to the sea in a sailing vessel or luxury yacht. On land, you can choose a guided tour on horseback or an all-terrain vehicle, hike
along our many picturesque trails, or take the highest zip line ride in the Caribbean. In addition, the island offers world-class shopping opportunities, a wealth of restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
Our island boasts over 100 nationalities, all bringing their traditional cuisine to our nation. St. Maarten/St. Martin is regionally known for its broad offering of culinary expertise. The island, in fact, has earned prestigious Taste of the Caribbean awards for its amazing cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene at a beach bar, a piano sing-along bar, or any of our casinos. In addition, our yearly calendar is filled with special activities like Carnival and the world-renowned St. Maarten Heineken Regatta.
The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) represents many of the businesses
you will encounter during your visit. SHTA members strive to deliver the highest quality of hospitality and services to our visitors, and we facilitate various annual activities. As the largest private-sector organization on St. Maarten, SHTA is always working to improve life here for visitors and residents.
We are happy to receive your suggestions for furthering our growth as a travel destination at office@shta. com, and we look forward to seeing you again. As you’ll discover throughout the pages of this publication, our diverse island offers a wealth of attractions and amenities. One visit might not be enough, so we hope to see you again soon!
Kind regards, Wyb Meijer
Based on St. Maarten, Riselle Celestina is the owner and editor of The Traveling Island Girl, a travel and island lifestyle blog. Her work has been featured is several publications. Connect with her for everything St. Maarten from a local’s perspective and for Caribbean travel inspiration at www.thetravelingislandgirl.com.
With a career footprint spanning more than two decades, Alita Singh is a versatile writer as comfortable with feature writing as with hard-hitting news. A senior journalist with St. Maarten–based newspaper The Daily Herald, Singh is also a Dutch Caribbean correspondent for several news outlets.
Harrison Drouin-Reed is the managing director and owner of St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty. He has been in the real estate industry from a young age, as his mother, Lesley Reed, started the business in 1999. They also provide full-scale services through their property management and vacation rental business.
Richard Hazel is an all-around island boy whose day job is that of an electronics engineer. In his spare time, he indulges his passion for photography at RTGH Photography. From weddings and events to plane spotting and landscape photography, he loves capturing memories that last a lifetime.
A DIVISION OF BALLERINA JEWELERS
62 Unit A, Front Street (near the Court House) Philipsburg, St Maarten
T: 1 721 543 0319
A DIVISION OF BALLERINA JEWELERS
U.S. Direct: 1 213 283 6233
62 Unit A, Front Street (near the Court House) Philipsburg, St Maarten
jewelryboutiquesxm@gmail.com www.thejewelry-boutique.com
T: 1 721 543 0319
U.S. Direct: 1 213 283 6233
jewelryboutiquesxm@gmail.com www.thejewelry-boutique.com 24 VISIT ST. MAARTEN / ST. MARTIN 2023
Born and raised on St. Maarten, Daniella De Windt is a local writer who knows the island’s hot spots. As a special editions coordinator at St. Maarten–based newspaper The Daily Herald, she specializes in feature writing and human-interest stories for the popular Out N About, Weekender, and Health and Beauty publications.
62-B Front St. St. Maarten, Dutch Caribbean 1-800-764-0884 sales@orodiamante.com www.orodiamante.com
The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association, the largest private business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality and enjoyment to all aspects of life on St. Maarten. The Annual Events Calendar details the most exciting and important events planned for the year by our Partners and Members on the beautiful island of St. Maarten and the surrounding islands. Don’t miss out!
Did you know you can search for shopping, dining, and attractions at www.visitstmaarten.com? Also, scan the QR code to download the Visit St. Maarten app while on the go!
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Websites www.shta.com www.visitstmaarten.com www.auctionsxm.com
Publisher, Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin
As you plan your daily activities, we invite you to peruse the pages of this guide. Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin was carefully put together to bring you the best the island has to offer. From world-class gastronomy to duty-free shopping, exciting activities, and incomparable attractions, this idyllic paradise has it all.
We hope you thoroughly enjoy your stay, take in all the amenities on offer, and visit many of the spectacular restaurants, retail shops, and attractions you’ll find on the following pages.
To learn more about all things St. Maarten/St. Martin, go to www.visitstmaarten.com.
Don’t forget to download the indispensable Visit St. Maarten/ St. Martin app while on the go to learn more about what to see and do and get useful maps to help you find your way around — all conveniently accessible on your smartphone.
Please let the businesses know you saw them in the Visit book or on the Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin app.
We urge you to get out there, have fun, meet the locals, and see and experience all that “The Friendly Island” has to offer!
All the best, Garry Duell, Jr.
Get all the latest visitor information and view the digital edition of this guide at www.visitstmaarten.com
You can also scan the QR code found throughout the pages of this guide to download the Visit St. Maarten app.
With 37 stunning beaches — one for every square mile — the island shared by The Netherlands and France is a scenic slice of paradise. But there’s more than sun, sand, and sea. St. Maarten/ St. Martin is a world-class destination offering first-rate attractions and amenities, incomparable shopping, delectable dining options, and so much more.
Local cosmetics producer St. Maarten Nectar creates such effective mosquito repellents, they are now exported to many countries.
In addition to their 6 signature rums, Topper’s Rhum Distillery produces more than 100 different specialty rums and 27 barrelaged rums that are only available at the Topper’s Rhum Distillery. They were recently nominated for Best Caribbean Rum Distillery in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest. Topper’s has received first place in this contest three years in a row.
well behaved and calm because they live in a natural way and get to roam all night.
Locally brewed SXM Beer donates its spent grain to feed many horses, cows, chickens, and gardens on the island.
Guests of The Atrium Beach Resort & Spa have enjoyed the same friendly faces each year as 55 percent of employees have been with the resort for more than 20 years.
This year, Diamonds International will celebrate its 30th anniversary of being on the beautiful island of St. Maarten/ St. Martin.
When it comes to cruise passengers, Port St. Maarten is by far the most visited cruise port of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, easily surpassing Amsterdam, Aruba, Curaçao, and even Rotterdam, the world’s second biggest port. In port of call ratings by passengers, it is also the most appreciated.
Sapphire Beach Club Resort has a secret beach-access “cave” leading to a small beach, otherwise unreachable except by sea.
Owner of a small tech business and a mentor of the Youth Brigade in his spare time, Star Peterson is above all else an adventurer. Ten years ago, he started sharing his passion of exploring St. Maarten/St. Martin’s unknown parts with the world via his YouTube channel, Star Living. Living on an island where development seems to be constant, 28-year-old Peterson hopes to conserve St. Maarten/St. Martin’s natural side by taking his viewers on exciting adventures of the island’s hidden treasures, revealing off-the-beaten track locations in unexplored and more rugged parts of the island.
“St. Maarten/St. Martin is a small place full of exciting adventures,” says Peterson, whose favorite pastime is spelunking or discovering the island’s hidden caves.
When he is not working or helping local youth, you can find Peterson hiking, diving, and exploring St. Maarten/ St. Martin, always with his favorite camera in hand. His videos are a mustwatch for those looking to have a more active vacation.
At age 47, Riselle Celestina is the oldest in this list of local YouTubers, a true representation of the sentiment that “it is never too late to start.” Although her channel, The Traveling Island Girl, has existed for years, it wasn’t until the lockdown of 2020 that her St. Maarten/ St. Martin videos really started to get noticed.
“I wanted to help spread the word that St. Maarten was still the island to visit, even after Hurricane Irma and the coronavirus,” says Celestina, who’s also a travel writer, blogger, and content creator. “I especially wanted to help the small businesses on the island by shining the spotlight on them for a change and, in so doing, help them keep their heads above water in such uncertain times.”
Viewers of her videos are treated to recommendations and suggestions on her favorite places to visit, the best places to stay, and must-do experiences on the island. Celestina has become quite the go-to person for St. Maarten/St. Martin visitors. Her videos are informative, educational, and entertaining.
For years, Rosi Fernandez has been captivating her followers on Instagram with her beauty and appealing smile, but it wasn’t until 2020 — during the height of the pandemic — that she went from being a local influencer to adding “local YouTuber” to her list of accomplishments. Sharing bits and pieces of her everyday life, Fernandez gives insight into what life on St. Maarten/St. Martin is really like. The 35-year-old initially started her channel simply to create memories for herself and her family to enjoy but has since managed to get the attention of more than just a handful of viewers with her vlogs. Her channel, named after herself, gives a candid look into the life of an island girl.
“St. Maarten/ St. Martin is a small place full of exciting adventures,” says Star Peterson.
Animal lovers looking to help St. Maarten/ St. Martin’s stray dog population can help by fostering or adopting, escorting rescues to their forever homes, volunteering, or donating funds, treats, food, toys, or accessories.
SXM PAWS IS A NONPROFIT organization dedicated to helping stray island dogs find loving homes. The organization relies on a network of fellow animal lovers to help rescue and care for the many dogs left on the streets of St. Maarten/St. Martin.
In 2019, SXM Paws opened a small no-kill shelter to house rescue dogs until their forever home is found, whether on island or abroad.
The shelter is more of a “doggie country club,” says longtime volunteer Kathy Blasberg, as SXM Paws lets dogs out of their kennels during the day so they can run around, play, explore, and interact with both humans and animals in order to socialize them.
SXM Paws has a visitors bench for those who just want to love on the coconut retrievers that call the shelter home. Visitors are more than welcome to bring treats, play, and cuddle to their hearts’ content, Blasberg says. Be prepared to fall in love with one of the
island dogs, otherwise known as coconut retrievers. These mixed-breed dogs are resilient and loving and adapt very well to any home in any country, making them a better memento of your trip than any souvenir.
Visitors are also invited to volunteer with SXM Paws during their vacation. There is always plenty to do like cleaning, feeding, socializing, and leash training. Animal lovers can also take dogs for a walk nearby or even take them on a hike or to the beach.
If you are returning home to the United States, Canada, or Europe soon, you can help escort a coconut retriever to their forever family. SXM Paws will take care of everything — all you have to do is show up at the airport and accompany the dog on its way home.
Craving some puppy loving? Come by the adoption center to volunteer or meet the lovely rescue dogs. SXM Paws is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
hether on land or below the azure waters off the coast, there is no shortage of things to do on St. Maarten/St. Martin. There is a path for every day, an option for everyone, and all the ingredients for a vacation you’ll never forget. The only question you’ll have after reading through these pages filled with myriad activities and attractions is this: How many more days should I extend my vacation by?
Just off the island’s many beaches is a world under the waves, one of reefs fluttering with life, sea creatures swimming free, and the serenity of diving into a wonderland. The options are endless for water
outings — you can charter a boat, take a cruise, enjoy a water sport, and dive under the waves.
Tours with Aqua Mania Adventures open up the world above and below the water. Relax aboard a catamaran as it cuts smoothly through white-capped waves and listen to the seabirds call overhead. Look out for the majestic brown pelican, the island’s national bird. Take an aroundthe-island trip or visit some of the neighboring isles. Also, kindle romance or wind down your busy day on a sunset sail or dinner cruise with Aqua Mania.
WDive Sint Maarten is your top choice to get to unique dive sites such as the wreck of the HMS Proselyte, Carib Ghost, Fuh Sheng, and Big Momma. Night dives are also available for adventure seekers. If the ocean is calling to you but you aren’t certified, no worries. The crew at Dive Sint Maarten offers various PADI certification courses, including PADI Digital Underwater Photography. How about that for a souvenir from your tropical vacation?
One of the truly cool things about vacationing on this island is that you can have mini-vacations within your vacation, or a day trip, if you will. There are several ferry options to take you to neighboring St. Barths, Anguilla, and Saba. A newer option is to take the ferry to the history-rich island of St. Eustatius with a stop at Saba.
For sporty types, there are water sports aplenty. From jet-skiing and kitesurfing to parasailing and snorkeling, the possibilities are seemingly endless. Watersports and other fun activities can be found on all the major beaches.
If you prefer a more relaxed encounter with the waves, just claim your beach chair or lay down a towel on the beach and let the waves kiss your toes.
Learning about the origins and history of a place allows for better connections and can help you form ideas for experiences. Museums are places to do that. The tiny but information-packed Sint Maarten Museum in Philipsburg is in colorful Speetjens Alley off Front Street. The ground floor is a gift shop, and the upper floor is the curated history of the island from formation to present day.
Widen your island knowledge with a stop at Amuseum Naturalis, popularly called the “Old House Museum,” on the French side. This is an exploration of the flora and fauna of the island. A walk around the property rewards you with some lovely views of the surrounding area.
Did you know that you’re on an island with the world’s steepest zip line? Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten at Rockland Estate is home to The Flying Dutchman, a zip-lining experience like no other. Take the chairlift up to Sentry Hill, the highest point on the Dutch side of the island, and zip down in a few exhilarating minutes. Don’t opt out of trying the other zip lines or taking the sliding donut down the winding tube.
Go exploring off the beaten track with a bicycle or kayak from Tri-Sport. The kayak trips can take you through the wetlands around Simpson Bay Lagoon to experience mangroves, the cradle of sea life in this ecosystem. Why not take a historical bike tour through Philipsburg, bike between two countries with a cross-border trip, or challenge your group to the “Adventure St. Maarten Race” with Tri-Sport.
Seaside Nature Park is a great place for a different kind of riding: horseback riding on the beach and along a hillside. Horses are not the only animals at the park. Its pet farm is home for cute and furry farmyard creatures. There’s also a restaurant to fuel up for your ride or replenish after one.
How about a motorized tour with Solid ATV Scooter Rental? Head off on an around-the-island tour with stops at the most Instagramworthy spots. You won’t regret it. Not everyone can say they drove an ATV through border points without having to show a passport.
The Rusty Parrot is a “sunken pirate ship” that allows you to escape into the life of a pirate below decks with an interactive experience and indulge in food and drinks topside. This is an excellent spot to sip a cocktail at sunset.
Vacations are about relaxing, and there is no better place than at a spa. At The Spa at Belmond La Samanna, get pampered as you drift away in a lush garden. It’s like melting off into the Garden of Eden.
The Nectar Wellness Spa at Oyster Bay Beach Resort uses natural skin care treatments made on island from aromatherapy and plant ingredients. A treatment at Nectar Wellness Spa is like absorbing the island into your skin.
GOOD TO KNOW FOR A UNIQUE ISLAND EXPERIENCE, TAKE A BREWERY TOUR, ENJOY A COLD BEER, AND LEARN ALL ABOUT THE PROCESS.
Make time to visit the SXM Beer brewery in Cole Bay. The beer is an experience in a bottle. Take the tour, have a cold beer, and add another unique experience to your roster.
Dutch Blonde Experiences is the place to challenge your ingenuity in one of the four escape rooms at Dutch Blonde Beach Bar. Strengthen your courage before heading in or reward yourself after with one of their locally made craft beers. You can learn all about the process at their brewery in Point Blanche.
Tour Topper’s Rhum Distillery and learn how the potent potable is made. Sample the rum, pick your favorite, have a cocktail, and get a bottle or two to take home.
Of course, you haven’t truly experienced St. Maarten/St. Martin if you go home without getting “jet blasted” in Maho Beach. The beach runs along one end of Princess Juliana International Airport. At this end, large planes turn in preparation for takeoff. That’s the source of the jet blast. The landing planes are also quite a treat as they come in low over the beach — so low it seems like you can reach out and touch their bellies.
As you can see, there’s something for everyone on this island paradise. Let’s see how many of these signature experiences you can add to your itinerary!
Young family members are in for a treat on St. Maarten/ St. Martin.
FAMILY TIME IS PRECIOUS.
Even more so is family vacation time. It’s a time for memory making and just pure fun. If this is the kind of vacation you seek, you’ve picked the right place in St. Maarten/St. Martin. There’s plenty to do for children and grown-ups alike.
Take your cue from the locals and make family time super fun. Many families head to the beach on weekends and holidays. They also enjoy all the delights their island has to offer, from hiking and swimming to just soaking up some good vitamin D. Here are some island activities for the young and young at heart.
There’s more than just water at Float-N-Splash Waterpark off Great Bay Beach. Put your agility and speed to the test on the most fun inflatable floating obstacle course in the Caribbean Sea. Children ages six and older are welcomed with adult supervision.
Brave the steepest zip line in the world: The Flying Dutchman at Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten. Enjoy the smooth
ride to the top of the mountain on the chairlift and glide back down on the zip line. Before zooming down, try the peak-to-peak zips. Prefer another way down from the high heights? Jump on the Schooner, a fast tube ride to the bottom.
The life and times of Jack Rackham, one of the most fearsome pirates to roam the Caribbean Sea, is chronicled at The Rusty Parrot in Philipsburg. Immerse yourselves in his adventures and tall tales. It’s a swashbuckling adventure the kids will long remember.
Seaside Nature Park is your ticket to horseback trails through the spectacular hillside. Have a slow gallop on the beach at the end of the ride and let the Caribbean Sea waves cool you and your fourlegged friend. Take a swim, enjoy the playground or pet farm, or explore the 30-acre park in Cay Bay. Make a day of it.
A good place for a snorkel is off Creole Rock, an unusual
rock formation with a reef teeming with aquatic life. Aqua Mania’s Sand Dollar Adventure offers snorkeling tours to this spot. To get warmed up, check out the world below from any of the island’s beaches.
A good way to see the island is by bicycle. Be it on- or offroad, Tri-Sport has a tour to give families a challenge and a bonding experience. Why not go for a triple treat? Take the historical bike ride through Philipsburg and soak up history, admire the scenery, and get a good workout.
Loterie Farm’s Jungle Kids Adventure Park is the perfect haven for little ones. The designated play area offers challenging, fun activities, a kids’ pool, and a chill-out area for parents as they keep watch on their little angels. The bigger kids (and adults) can conquer the treetops on the Fly Zone or see who can make it first to the highest point on the island: Pic Paradis (Paradise Peak).
Kids can be like little parrots, copying all you do and say. Introduce them to actual parrots and other tropical birds at Parotte Ville on Bishop Hill Road. The park is home to quite a few exotic birds, including sun parakeets, ring-necked parakeets, black-headed caiques, and more. Wander through the medicinal garden and learn about local remedies.
Le Galion Beach or “Baby Beach” is nature’s kiddie pool. The calm shallow waters are perfect for little swimmers. If it’s your first tropical vacation with your little one, head there for that first beach memory. Remember to pack a snack or a picnic, along with beach towels and sunscreen.
Taking a walk along the beach is the perfect way to close the day. This is a favorite pastime of islanders. Two of the best spots to do this as a family are the Boardwalk in Philipsburg and the Marigot waterfront. A bonus to these strolls is seeing the island shed its sunshine personality and don its moonlight aura.
Come join the “pirates” on The Rusty Parrot.
GRAB AN EYE PATCH and head for The Rusty Parrot, a “scuttled” ship in Philipsburg like those once used by marauding pirates. Now it’s the newest hot spot in St. Maarten/St. Martin, a favorite of history lovers and partiers alike.
The story begins with pirate enthusiast Raphael Dorra, the creative mind behind the new attraction. Dorra describes The Rusty Parrot as an “immersive experience” designed to show what life was like for infamous Caribbean pirates like Jack Rackham, known to history as Calico Jack. Visitors enter the bowels of the “ship” to learn more about Rackham through special effects and many surprises.
Dorra, who grew up in Tahiti, says there are many stories surrounding pirates; but most are distorted, based on legends, not facts. When the opportunity presented itself for a unique adventure, Dorra was ready to hoist the Jolly Roger, the internationally known symbol of pirates created by Rackham.
The Rusty Parrot takes visitors through the life of Rackham based on researched materials, artifacts, some plotline twists, and a few turns.
“The idea is to present history in a fun way,” says Dorra. “This is a total experience for family, friends, groups, anyone who wants to experience something exciting and different.”
Tours are offered in five languages — English, Dutch, French, German, and Spanish — and the “crew” dresses in full pirate garb to lend authenticity to the experience.
Continue your pirate adventure with gear from the gift shop. Then head up to the deck for a view of Philipsburg and Great Bay. Topside, enjoy drinks and tasty tapas at the bar and lounge as you take in the island’s balmy weather. Music is also on the menu.
“Visit us at The Rusty Parrot,” Dorra says. “It’s an adventure like no other.”
WHY NOT GET TO KNOW some of the island’s fascinating but least-known locales? Spend a fun-filled day or spread out your adventure over several days. Then round off your time with a refreshing visit to a nearby beach.
Between Oyster Bay and the French side is the Rotary Lookout Point. Climb the stairs to the wooden platform for sweeping views over a wide expanse of the St. Martin Nature Reserve. Take a walk along the rocky beach. Be sure to wear water shoes to wade over to offshore islets at low tide.
Plan to see some of the beaches in Cupecoy and the Lowlands. This area covers what is often referred to as the island’s Gold Coast. Lots of villas are behind high walls. Getting to Baie Rouge is a sure way of getting a closer look. No villa hunting for you? Seek out the caves on Cupecoy Beach. Explore Jordan Village, a little university town of sorts. It’s home to the American University of the Caribbean Medical School. All the attractions and restaurants cater mostly to students. It’s a good place for an excellent on-a-budget meal.
Colombier Village is one of the oldest settlements on the island. It was one of the places where freed slaves lived after emancipation. Descendants of those freed people still uphold
BY ALITA SINGHtheir traditions, some stretching all the way back to Africa. In late February or early March, the villagers host the Arrowroot Festival. The tuber is harvested and prepared to render arrowroot starch, which is used to thicken sauces, stiffen fabrics, and more. You can drive through this little Creole village on any day to enjoy the scenery. Check out the Association Nature Valley Colombier Facebook page to see current events.
Did you know the island is home to a set of natural pools carved out of the coral by time and the waves? A short hike from either Point Blanche or Guana Bay along the hillside and through some cactus patches will bring you to the pools. Don your swimming gear and climb down into the pools. Let go of your cares and listen to the waves. Dry off and continue your hike or stay awhile and enjoy a picnic.
Anse Marcel Bay is a hidden gem. You can access it by car or take a boat. The tranquil location features breathtaking views of lush green vegetation. The beach is less populated than others on the island and is ideal for sunbathing or lunch with cocktails. The waters at Anse Marcel Beach are shallow enough for inexperienced swimmers and children to enjoy time in the sea.
Explore Philipsburg, the Dutch side capital, on a self-guided art walk and learn about the island and its local artists through 21 colorful murals.
COLORMESXM IS A LOCAL PROJECT by the Be the Change Foundation that aims to add color to the streets of Philipsburg while promoting local art by giving artists blank canvases on unadorned walls around town.
Be the Change Foundation’s Art Walk challenges visitors to find the 21 unique murals by 22 local artists, each with its own style and story. Mural hunters will find plenty of shops, restaurants, attractions, and historical sites in Philipsburg as they seek out the many perfect photo backdrops provided by the colorful murals.
Loic Bryan’s Happiness and Fiel Efenio’s I Left My Heart in St. Maarten are two of the colorful murals you can find during your art walk. Happiness is the first mural you’ll come across as you follow the free downloadable ColorMeSXM
map. The mural is located next to the iconic historical monument house known as the Guavaberry Emporium. Bryan dedicated more than two months to his Happiness mural, working alone and mostly during the weekends. The piece showcases St. Maarten/St. Martin’s vibrant flora and fauna, such as the bright flowers of the island’s national flamboyant tree, and the cute bananaquits, or sugarbirds, with their bright yellow underbellies, black
wings, and white markings. Bryan wanted to paint something that would bring people joy during the pandemic.
“COVID was a time of doom and gloom, so I just wanted to paint something that made everybody happy,” he says.
Bryan explains that he was inspired by the time he spent outdoors as a child. Looking at the sun, birds, flowers, and blue skies never failed to cheer him up.
Efenio’s I Left my Heart in St. Maarten is located in an
alley next to the Walter Platz Square. The mural took the artist/photographer/graphic designer three full days of painting with the help of family and friends. I Left My Heart in St. Maarten captures the special place the island has in the hearts of both visitors and residents.
“Whether you are visiting or are from here, you never forget the island,” Efenio explains. The mural’s “Made in SXM” quote refers to Philippines-born Efenio’s childhood and adult life on St. Maarten/St. Martin. “Even though I was not born here, I believe that I was born to be here.”
The mural’s minimalistic design incorporates bold shapes and vibrant colors to demonstrate the diversity of St. Maarten/St. Martin, while also providing a popular photo backdrop for both locals and tourists.
Want to take on the challenge and find all the murals? Just download the Art Walk Challenge Map at www.bethechange sxm.com/colormesxm, get your camera ready, and start hunting. Not only will you enjoy exploring Philipsburg and seeing some beautiful murals, but you will also learn more about the island and its people through art.
For fun on, above, or under the waves, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers an array of ways to have fun in the water.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is famous for many reasons — cuisine, culture, and a unique Dutch-French heritage — but it’s the island’s warm, clear water that attracts many visitors, especially active, adventurous types. This one-of-a-kind island boasts 37 beaches and an impressive array of ways to enjoy them. Straddle a Jet Ski or challenge the waves on a surfboard. Dive down to discover a colorful new world or strap on a water-propelled jet pack and kiss the sky. On your island vacation, you’ll find practically endless ways to get your adrenaline going above and below the surface.
Here’s a water sport that will take you to new heights. “Hydro” comes from the Greek word for water, and flying is… well, flying. It’s all about water pressure. Think of a cork shooting from a champagne bottle. With a flyboard, you step into wakeboard-style boots that are attached to a platform you operate with a controller. Hoverboarding combines
flyboarding and something like surfing on a skateboard to give you an unforgettable Back to the Future sort of thrill. Or strap on a jet pack and give your inner Rocket Man permission to zoom. All three devices are powered by compressed water, and they’re easier to tackle than you might imagine — not to mention loads of fun!
Aquatic adventures also await you under the sea. Dive deep to explore old shipwrecks, join up with schools of multicolored reef fish, or hang out with nurse sharks on a thrilling night dive. Because reefs and waters here are protected, opportunities abound for cozying up to a variety of fanciful creatures that thrive beneath the surface. Many island dive operators conduct PADI certification courses and set you up with gear. Dive Sint Maarten, for example, offers a comprehensive range of services, including PADI courses and tours. Forgoing all that, you can still have an underwater adventure. Sign up for a guided helmet dive and walk below the waves without ever getting your hair wet.
Ancient Polynesians mastered the waves, but could any of them have imagined the many ways watersport enthusiasts would come to use surfboards in St. Maarten/St. Martin? Traditionalists head for prime spots like Mullet Bay and Cupecoy. Then there are the windsurfers and kitesurfers who challenge themselves at Le Galion Beach when the wind is blowing strong. Not quite ready for that? Try e-foiling on a surfboard with an electric propeller or build up your balancing acumen on a stand-up paddleboard. You’ll also find surf schools that will teach you how to hang ten with the coolest of dudes.
If diving isn’t your thing, you may be surprised by how much of the underwater world you can explore from shore with only a mask and fins. The crystal-clear waters surrounding St. Maarten/St. Martin are home to abundant sea life, including turtles, rays, and vibrant corals. Meet up with a multitude of colorful reef fish at Creole Rock, off the shore of Grand Case. Check out the artificial reefs formed by sunken ships and planes, where you may spot lionfish, barracuda, and the ever-inquisitive yellowtail snapper. And don’t overlook the soft corals and swim-through gap at Baie Rouge Beach or the rocky reef break at Simpson Bay.
Speaking of fish, you can catch them, too. Deep-sea charters will take you to prime spots like Tuna Shoals, where anglers reel in big ones like yellowfin and mahi-mahi. Set your sights as well on blue marlin, sailfish, grouper, and wahoo. Tarpon are known to gather in salt ponds and canals. Think of the reel stories you’ll tell the folks back home about the one that didn’t get away.
THE ST.
Each year in March, seasoned sailors from around the world converge on the island to compete in the renowned St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. As you might expect then, boating in all forms reigns supreme in the glass-clear waters that surround the Dutch-French island — and you needn’t be a pro to participate. In Philipsburg, for example, you can help crew an authentic America’s Cup racing yacht at the St. Maarten 12 Metre Regatta. Charter a luxury catamaran and relax as you take in the sights and scenery. Explore the shore in a kayak or spend a day sailing to Saba and other nearby islands.
Boating isn’t the only way to enjoy yourself on the surface. Imagine the fun you’ll have sea-bobbing on a motorized water scooter or zipping around on a Jet Ski. You might even want to strap on a pair of water skis or hug a giant tube as a motorboat pulls you through the water on the ride of your life.
Signing up for a sea tour is a great way to spend the day in and around St. Maarten/St. Martin. Aqua Mania Adventures offers a variety of dive options as well as island-hopping excursions and other day trips. Explore the island’s ecosystem on a kayaking or canoeing excursion. You also may want to consider dining on a catamaran as you take in the scenery on a day cruise to Anguilla.
MAARTEN HEINEKEN REGATTA HAS THRILLED SAILORS AND SPECTATORS FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS.
Middle
Bottom
From left to right.
Top row: J. Kevin Foltz, courtesy of Dive Sint Martin, RTGH Photography
row: RTGH Photography, J. Kevin Foltz, Lili Peterson Photography
row: courtesy of Dive Sint Martin, courtesy of Sea Trek, J. Kevin Foltz
BY ROBYN DEKKER
Get up close and personal with wrecks and reefs and help preserve the natural environment with every descent.
ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN IS KNOWN FOR ITS LUSH GREEN HILLS and tropical beaches, but some of the island’s most impressive sights are not immediately apparent to the average traveler. Some views and creatures will take your breath away, but to access these elusive sights, you’ve got to step off the beach and into the ocean.
The waters surrounding the island boast an underwater ecosystem that encompasses a variety of sea life — from tropical fish to beautiful corals, stingrays, and several different shark species, including nurse and reef sharks. Some days, you could be lucky enough to spot sea turtles floating through the water, while other days, you may share your swim with barracudas or spotted rays. While there is never a guarantee of what you will see, one thing is certain: Your dive won't disappoint.
“The wonderful thing about scuba diving in St. Maarten/ St. Martin is that there is something for any age and experience level,” says Robyn Gerrist-Dekker of Dive Sint
Maarten, located at Bobby’s Marine in Philipsburg. “The island features almost 30 dive sites which include 11 wrecks and a few deep dives. Just off Great Bay, we have several options, including Carib Cargo, Teigland, Fish Bowl, and Mike’s Maze. It takes just minutes to get to a great dive site here in St. Maarten/ St. Martin.”
Scuba diving in the waters surrounding St. Maarten/ St. Martin is a unique experience. There is a wide variety of dive options for experienced and novice divers alike. Starting from age 10 and up, Dive Sint Maarten offers a Discover Scuba Diving course that will get you acquainted with the world of scuba. Once you’ve learned the basics, you can head to one of the many wrecks and experience the other side of St. Maarten/ St. Martin.
Carib Cargo, a popular dive site, is an old interisland trader that sits upright in about 70 feet of water. It’s home to snapper, lobsters, turtles, sharks, stingrays, crabs, and, if you’re lucky, a bottlenose dolphin who visits during winter months. This dive site is situated on
the edge of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park, which encompasses almost 8,000 acres of protected reefs, historical wrecks, seagrass meadows, and open sand.
Another popular dive site is HMS Proselyte, a stunning wreck that was once a 32-gun Royal Navy frigate. Built in 1770 in Rotterdam, her crew mutinied and turned her over to the British in 1796, where she served in the Royal Navy until she wrecked in 1801. While making her way to St. Maarten/St. Martin from St. Kitts, the ship struck the Man of War Shoal. Boats from Philipsburg hurried out and rescued her crew, and this stunning vessel came to rest on her starboard side about 50 feet down. Ballast bars, cannons, anchors, and more lay scattered throughout the water surrounding this wreck. This site has become heavily
encrusted with coral over the last 200-plus years and is a top-rated dive site among both visitors and locals.
Some dive sites are reserved for the more experienced divers and, due to their location, are only accessible when weather permits. One Step Beyond, Molly Beday, and Hen and Chicks dive sites can be found on the east coast between St. Maarten/ St. Martin and St. Barths; these feature healthy reefs with large sponges and corals.
Dolphins and whales are frequently seen in the waters surrounding St. Maarten/ St. Martin from December through April, shares Dive Sint Maarten’s Captain Willem Dekker.
“I have been lucky enough to see many dolphins over the years,” he says. “They enjoy accompanying our divers near the wrecks, and when we head
out in the mornings, they often play in the waves off the bow. I know it will be a great dive when we see them.”
Still not sure about adding a dive or two to your island itinerary? What if we told you that by diving in St. Maarten/St. Martin, you’re helping to preserve the island’s underwater ecosystem? Each diver must purchase a dive tag. Dive tag fees are collected by dive shops, with all proceeds going to the Nature Foundation St. Maarten, which earmarks the funds for managing protected areas, funding conservation research, and maintaining moorings. By diving in St. Maarten/St. Martin, you become a part of this important effort, preserving the island’s enchanting dive sites for generations to come.
Widely regarded as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers myriad ways to set sail.
WHETHER YOU’RE A MAJOR COMPETITOR in the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta or a novice mariner, sailing is a fun and accessible activity to all who visit St. Maarten/ St. Martin. Depending on your skill (and thrill) level, your expectations, and your budget, there are lots of options to enjoy the turquoise waters surrounding the island and explore its beautiful coastline.
First off, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is an annual sailing event that takes place the first full weekend in March. This year, the 43rd edition will be celebrated from March 2–5, 2023. The event combines world-class racing with splendid onshore entertainment, also known as “serious fun parties.” While many people race their own boats, there are also a good number of people who charter boats in order to participate, making for all the fun and none of the worry. Race charters are becoming more popular and are a perfect means to tick off this bucket-list experience.
If you aren’t a sailor, this can still be your new favorite event, as many people flock to the island to be part of the bustling energy that is generated in the weeks surrounding the St. Maarten Heineken
Regatta. Lots of people book their tickets on the spectating boats early, as they can’t wait to watch the 100-plus boats racing around the island. Watching the starts from the water is the ultimate way to enjoy this event — unless, of course, you are a big music lover. Then you would also thoroughly enjoy the activities organized at the Regatta Village at Port de Plaisance, where all the best of St. Maarten/St. Martin comes together: ice cold drinks, food, and music. There is so much going on that it’s best to visit www.heinekenregatta.com to get all your information.
What if March is not a good time for you to visit St. Maarten/St. Martin? Or perhaps you like sailing, but a big event like the regatta is a bit overwhelming? Let’s go over some other options for you to get out on the water, feel the breeze in your hair and the salty sea spray on your face, and witness beautiful St. Maarten/St. Martin from the water. It’s an experience that is hard to beat.
For keen sailors, racers, or even those who never set foot on a boat, you can have a brilliant time on the 12 Metre Experience, which invites you to race former America’s
Cup boats as actively as you please.
A big-budget item, but a vacation on its own, is a weeklong boat charter, where you can cruise the waters at your own pace. Discover quiet and gorgeous bays — like Happy Bay, Grand Case, Tintamarre, and Pinel — or even visit the surrounding islands like St. Barths and Anguilla. You can charter through Sunsail or look into private options. If you are on a budget, you can always consider picking one of many day sailing charters that bring you this joy for a fraction of the price of a full-week charter. Take your pick from sailing catamarans, monohulls, fast racing, or comfortably cruising boats. Whatever you choose, that smile will be plastered on your face for a while — even after you come back home to rain or snow.
Becoming more popular
are vacations where you work on a skill. St. Maarten/St. Martin is a fantastic place to learn how to sail or to further develop your sailing skills. You can book sailing lessons in dinghies, which are smaller sailboats like Lasers and double-handed boats, at the Sint Maarten Yacht Club; or if your focus is on bigger keelboats and internationally recognized certification, the Maritime School of the West Indies offers you great options.
Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed by your time on the waters around St. Maarten/St. Martin. The trade winds offer fantastic sailing conditions, and let’s not forget the average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). When is the last time you tried something new? Maybe now is the time to make it happen and enjoy an unforgettable sailing experience.
Here’s how to find the one that’s right for you.
ome things are just plain impossible, no matter what you may read on the internet. It’s impossible to flap your arms and fly to the moon. It’s impossible to click your rubyred slippers and suddenly turn up in Kansas. And it’s nigh impossible to have a bad day at the beach when the sun is shining on St. Maarten/ St. Martin. The Dutch-French island
Sboasts 37 remarkable beaches, all of them postcard perfect; but as insiders will tell you, no beach is exactly like another. Some are crowd-pleasers; others are havens from the hustle and bustle. On some beaches, you’ll see little ones splashing in the surf, while others attract aquatic athletes honing their skills. What are you looking for in a beach? Here are our picks for beaches that are sure to please and satisfy your needs.
Maho Beach: Sharing a thrill is a surefire way to make new friends. Scream with strangers as jumbo jets fly right over you on their way to adjacent Princess Juliana International Airport. Later, you can swap stories over drinks at a lively beach bar.
Orient Beach: See how many celebrities you can spot on this Riviera-like stretch of sun-kissed sand, dubbed by jet-setters the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.” But be forewarned: You may really get to know folks if you venture to the far southern end of this two-mile-long beach. It’s where unclothed sun worshippers like to let it all hang out.
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Guana Bay Beach: You may encounter surfers from time to time, but often it’s just you and the views of neighboring St. Barths. Relax, rejuvenate, restore.
Plum Bay Beach: This sandy shore offers an enchanting view of Saba and little else. It’s a great place to crack open that hot new beach read you’ve been wanting to delve into.
Simpson Bay Beach: Families looking to avoid the throngs but not the amenities enjoy this mile-long strip of fine sand. It’s within proximity of Simpson Bay’s many resorts and restaurants, but you won’t find it overrun with tourists.
Le Galion Beach: Relax, Mom and Dad. Your little ones can splash safely in calm, shallow waters sheltered by a large coral reef. Make like a local and pack a picnic lunch.
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Dawn Beach: If you miss the fabled green flash during a sunset stroll, you’ll have another chance at romance if you wait a few more hours. Sunrises are spectacular at this beach, as its name suggests.
Lover’s Beach: Also aptly named, this tiny slice of seclusion is said to accommodate only two people at a time, making it the perfect spot for a romantic rendezvous.
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Mullet Bay Beach: Surfers head for the reef break at this beach near the island’s only golf course. It’s also a popular spot to rent a glassbottom kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
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Petite Plage: This pristine stretch of shore at the end of Grand Case’s main street is the gateway to Creole Rock, considered by many to be the best snorkeling site on the island. The easily reached reef is teeming with tropical fish.
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Great Bay Beach: Lively bars and restaurants line Front Street near the boardwalk that runs along most of this beach in the heart of Philipsburg. Work up your appetite zooming around on a Jet Ski, then treat your taste buds to some mouthwatering island cuisine.
Grand Case Beach: This fishing-village-turned-culinary-capital is famous for the gourmet restaurants that line the boulevard. Savor the finest French food this side of the Eiffel Tower, but don’t overlook the local delicacies served up at quaint grills known as lolos.
FACT YOUR FRIENDS WILL MARVEL AT THE IMAGES YOU POST OF THE OCHRE-COLORED CLIFFS THAT EMBRACE CUPECOY BEACH AT THE SOUTHWESTERN CORNER OF THE ISLAND.
St. Maarten
Little Bay Beach: Imagine what life was like in 1631, when this shore was protected by Fort Amsterdam, the first Dutch military outpost in the Caribbean. Only a few of the fort’s walls remain, but the site is well worth a visit.
Galisbay Beach: The ruins of Fort Louis tower over this small family beach. Completed in 1789, the fort was designed to protect Marigot and its warehouses from marauding British and Dutch pirates. Today it makes for a scenic photo backdrop.
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Cupecoy Beach: Your friends will marvel at the images you post of the ochre-colored cliffs that embrace this coral-sand shore at the southwestern corner of the island. Try to capture the magnificent sunsets that wash across cave-peppered sandstone formations towering 20 feet above the surf.
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Îlet Pinel: It’s hard to take a bad picture on this idyllic islet reachable only by boat. How can you mess up a shot of gently swaying coconut palms, baby-blue water, and a gorgeous mountain backdrop?
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Geneve Bay Beach: Reaching this rugged black-rock shore on the southeastern coast near Philipsburg requires an hour-long hike from Guana Bay through evergreen shrub land. But, oh, what awaits: photogenic geological formations, brown pelicans, and melon-shaped cactuses.
Tintamarre: You’ll feel like Robinson Crusoe on this island that’s devoid of human inhabitants but rich in wildlife. It’s likely you’ll spot turtles and stingrays swimming in crystalline waters protected by the Nature Reserve.
Landlubbers on “The Friendly Island” will find plenty of ways to play the day away.
Why did you choose to vacation in St. Maarten/ St. Martin? If you’re like most first-timers, you probably were drawn to this island paradise because you read that it’s the best beach destination in the Caribbean. It is. How could it not be, with 37 postcard-perfect shores? But as repeat visitors will tell you — and you surely will count yourself among them after you’ve had a taste of the place — St. Maarten/St. Martin is so much more than sandy shores. Inland is a trove of scenic sights and attractions that are certain to please those who like to get out and make the most of a land-based day. Here are some of the best ways to do it.
Rent a mountain bike and build up your strength and endurance, along with your appreciation of an impressive terrain of rolling hills, soaring peaks, and a shoreline kissed by gentle surf. Coast leisurely through the French flatlands or along seaside trails from Cay Bay to Fort Amsterdam and Mullet Beach. Serious pedal pushers may want to take on the 35-mile-long road that encircles the island or challenge themselves to ascend more than 1,400 feet to the top of Pic Paradis, the island’s highest point.
Here’s another way to spend a memorable day while working those leg muscles. Both sides of the island are marked with well-maintained hiking trails, including eight mapped and cleared by EPIC, a local environmental group. Dedicated hikers who scale Pic Paradis, the island’s highest point, are rewarded with magnificent vistas. Others may choose to hike along the undeveloped coastline of Guana Bay and Point Blanche before treating themselves to a refreshing dip in a natural pool.
St. Maarten/St. Martin may not be known as a golfing mecca, but club swingers will find lots to love about the long-established Mullet Bay Golf Course. Master golfer Joseph Lee sculpted the 18-hole, par-70 course around a lovely lagoon. In addition, Oyster Bay Beach Resort recently added a putting green near its entrance, just steps from Dawn Beach. The deep green perimeter frames 3 holes and accommodates multiple guests.
The American Tennis Academy on the French side features two lighted courts and structured programs, lessons, clinics, and rentals for juniors and adults of every skill level. In addition, you can play on quality courts at several resorts around the island.
If you’re in love with tennis, you may want to try this new sport that’s gaining aficionados across the island. A mix of tennis and squash, it’s usually played in doubles on a glass-enclosed court. The SXM Padel Club, across the street from the Belair Beach Hotel, features two stateof-the-art lighted courts for day and night play, showers, changing rooms, a bistro and bar, and a retail pro shop. Players can rent the courts by the hour via the SXM Padel Club app. Padel rackets and balls are available for rent. Guests can also book private or group classes.
Also at the Padel Club are two regulation lighted courts where you can try your hand at the French version of lawn bowling. The sport is gaining in popularity on this island that mixes European charm with Caribbean flair.
Here’s a game that combines elements of racquetball, badminton, and table tennis. It’s a challenging sport you play with a wooden paddle and a hard plastic ball with holes. After a couple of lessons, you’ll understand why competitors of all ages are taking up this fast-growing sport.
Saddle up at Lucky Stables and saunter through Seaside Nature Park, a 30-acre preserve that provides a home to iguanas, mongooses, and, of course, championship horses that are born and bred here. Beautiful winding trails lead you to a splendid lookout point. If weather permits, you can take in views of Saba and Statia (Sint Eustatius). Couples, meanwhile, can toast each other with champagne after a romantic ride. Later,
you can end the day with a refreshing swim with your horse in the ocean. This is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Horsepower offers another pathway to fun on St. Maarten/St. Martin. Sign up for a Segway excursion on the Dutch side. Rent a car at Dollar/ Thrifty and tour the island at your own pace, or tackle the terrain on an ATV, scooter, buggy, or quad bike.
Solid ATV Scooter Rental can set you up for a fun-filled day.
You can’t really get to know St. Maarten/St. Martin without learning a bit of its history and culture. The best way to do that is to book a tour. How about a shopping tour of Philipsburg or a sipping tour of Topper’s Rhum Distillery? You can also spend several fascinating hours at Amuseum Naturalis, which maintains a bush tea garden showcasing the island’s medicinal plants, along with agricultural displays, poetry exhibits, and more.
The whole family, moreover, will enjoy stepping back to the days of yore at The Rusty Parrot, a “scuttled ship” in Philipsburg like those once used by marauding pirates. It’s an immersive experience designed to show what life was like for infamous Caribbean pirates like Jack Rackham, known to history as Calico Jack. Visitors learn more about the infamous buccaneer through special effects and many surprises. Topside, enjoy drinks and tapas along with memorable views of Philipsburg and Great Bay.
For the thrill of a lifetime, zoom down a mountain on The Flying Dutchman, the steepest zip line in the world, at Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten. Also unforgettable is a guided ecotour of the island.
Make your way on foot along a rocky, undeveloped coastline or explore the countryside on a Jeep tour from St. Maarten Nature Island Tours. In addition, Tri-Sport offers a variety of hiking, biking, and kayaking tours. You’re apt to encounter a variety of plants, animals, and birds as you learn more about the island’s distinctive terrain and ecosystem. After your adventure, cool down and refresh yourself with a memorable taste of St. Maarten, a cold beer from one of the island breweries.
Did You Know? At Amuseum Naturalis you’ll learn how African and Amerindian heritage came together on the island.Lucky Stables Amuseum Naturalis Solid ATV Scooter Rental
the Boardwalk in Philipsburg. This windmill, looking out on Great Bay, features four adrenaline-pumping escape rooms designed to test your skills, problem-solving abilities, brainpower, and common sense.
ALL YOU WANTED TO DO WAS LOUNGE ON THE BEACH and sip a local craft beer. But, just your luck, you’re captured by the evil pirate Blackbeard. He may be planning to sell you off or keep you to scrub the decks. You make your great escape when the pirate and his crew go plundering ashore.
Sound like a movie? Not in this case. Blackbeard’s Brig is an escape room at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar on
You will need all your wits about you because you may have escaped from the brig only to find yourself in a dark and stormy night. Suddenly you hear a scream. After the shock fades, you notice someone is missing. Where’s Alex? What was that scream?
Raven Woods is the next escape room. Do a single room or try your skills at all four.
Prefer to do some sleuthing for gems? The Lost Jewel of Zanzibar beckons you. It is 1930. Your colleague, Magnus Ferguson, has been exploring in Africa, searching for antiquities. He has made a wondrous discovery, but it is in danger of falling into the
hands of a ruthless warlord. Magnus has hidden the jewel in his camp and left clues that only you will be able to interpret. Are you ready?
Move into a different era at The Lucky Duck Speakeasy. This escape room takes you to 1925, when prohibition is in full swing. You have been leading the crackdown on illegal sales and other nefarious activities. The evidence you need to identify the kingpin of this criminal organization is here
at the speakeasy. A bomb has been set to destroy the building and its secrets. Can you disarm it in time?
BY ALITA SINGH J. Kevin FoltzAre you pumped to try your MacGyver skills in one of these escape rooms? They challenge you to search for clues and solve puzzles together with your family or friends. It’s fun — and good for you, too. As Dutch Blonde tells participants, problemsolving is beneficial for brain function.
Have you got what it takes to find your way out of an escape room?Dutch Blonde Experiences
Hit the trails for an up-close encounter with nature.
ATTENTION NATURE LOVERS: St. Maarten/St. Martin invites you to explore its many hiking trails. Crisscrossing the island’s rolling hills and meandering along the sandy or rocky coastline are trails for all levels of hikers. You can plot a course yourself using online tools, schedule a guided hike with a tour company such as Tri-Sport, or seek out one of the local hiking groups. Here are a few hikes that will inspire you to explore.
The natural pools are the reward of this 1.3-mile out-and-back trail at Back Bay. Start in Point Blanche or Guana Bay. Hike along the hillside through little cactus forests. Don’t forget your swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing dip in the pools. This is an easy route and takes about 28 minutes to complete.
Pelican Peak offers amazing views of Point Blanche and St. Barths to the east and Great Bay and Philipsburg to the west. This is a 2.5-mile out-andback trail that takes about 90 minutes to complete. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone.
Fort Amsterdam (Moderate)
A scenic along-the-coast hike is to Fort Amsterdam Peninsula. Explore this 1.8-mile out-and-back trail near Little Bay. Start in the vicinity of Belair Beach Hotel and walk along the beach and rocky coastline to the peninsula. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, this trail takes about an hour out-and-back to complete. The fort ruins provide a good place to imagine what the garrison may have been like in olden days.
Pic Paradis (Moderate)
Conquer the highest point on the island: Pic Paradis. This is a popular area for birding, hiking, and running; so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The 2.8-mile out-and-back trail starts near Colombier, or you can access alternative ways to the top from Loterie Farm. The main trail takes about two hours to complete.
Grandes Cayes (Easy)
Tackle this 3.2-mile outand-back trail near French Cul de Sac. The easy route takes about 75 minutes. It’s a popular trail for hiking and walking, but you can still find some tranquility during quieter times of day.
Bellevue Border-Crossing Hike (Easy to Moderate) This hiking trail starts just off the main road into Marigot
Crisscrossing the island’s rolling hills and meandering along the sandy or rocky coastline are trails for all levels of hikers.
and leads past a small wooden bridge over an old stone wall (also referred to as a “slave wall”). Follow the trail to the Dutch side. Keep an eye out for flags before crossing the border. This takes about an hour.
The local Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) Foundation hosts a monthly free guided hike. The hikes are open to the public and feature a different trail each month. Joining the EPIC hikes is a good way to connect with nature and nature lovers. Learn more about EPIC’s schedule on its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/epicislands
St. Maarten/St. Martin abounds with treasures at duty-free prices.
ttention bargain hunters and treasure seekers: Duty-free St. Maarten/St. Martin is a shopper’s paradise. From stylish apparel and luxury watches to one-of-a-kind trinkets and topshelf spirits, this 37-square-mile gem is a shopping mecca. Join us for a shopping tour of the island and see what you may find. J.
The capital of Dutch St. Maarten is a cornucopia of shopping delights. Its main streets — Front Street and Back Street — and their connecting alleyways and squares are dotted with boutiques and vendors offering all sorts of items.
With the island’s highest concentration of jewelry stores, Front Street could be called the “diamond district.” Stores are stocked with GIA-certified diamonds of all shapes, sizes, and clarity, as well as other high-end gems, designer jewelry, and watches.
You’ll also find bedazzling merchandise at stores like AMA Jewelers, Ballerina Jewelers, Caribbean Gems, Diamonds International, Joe’s Jewelry International, Ocean Jewelers, Oro Diamanté, Pavillion
Techies should head for the electronics powerhouse that is Boolchand’s. For 90 years, the store has been a fixture in St. Maarten with its ample stock of electronics, fine jewelry, watches, and footwear. Part of its portfolio is an exclusive Pandora store on Front Street, where you can get a custom-engraved St. Maarten charm to commemorate your time here.
You’ll also want to stop in at AMAsterdam, located in an alley off of Front Street. Take a selfie in an old Amsterdam trolley car and enjoy a beer after you’ve browsed among the Delft Blue island-specific ornaments and souvenirs.
Celebrate your travels with a custom engraved charm
Across Pasangrahan Hotel 12-2 Front Street • Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: (721) 542-1109 Email: Pandora.SXM@Boolchand.com
5 Harbour Point Village
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Tel: (721) 542-9367 Email: Pandora.HAR@Boolchand.com
AVAILABLE AT
50 Front Street
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Tel: (721) 542-2245 Email: Pandora.FS@Boolchand.com
DID YOU KNOW? FROM STYLISH APPAREL AND LUXURY WATCHES TO ONE-OF-A-KIND TRINKETS AND TOPSHELF SPIRITS, THIS 37-SQUARE-MILE GEM IS A SHOPPING MECCA.
The Dutch are known for their devotion to cheese, as you’ll see at Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store at Dock Maarten. The store carries a wide variety of cheeses from The Netherlands, including Gouda and Edam, along with wheels of cheeses flavored with chocolate, cumin, and spices.
If you’re mad for motorcycles, stop by Harley-Davidson St. Maarten in Bobby’s Marina. The store stocks bike parts and accessories at affordable prices.
Treat yourself to designer threads at JL Store. This is the go-to spot for Polo Ralph Lauren, Armani, Longchamp, and more.
JOHN HARDY’S JEWELRY is shaped by the rituals of Bali, the rituals of John Hardy’s craftsmanship, and the rituals of those who wear the brand. They weave together age-old knowledge and a pioneering vision to honor interlinked pasts, presents, and futures.
Inspired by Bali and its timehonored jewelry-making traditions, John Hardy’s artisan collective was founded in 1975 with a dedication to handcrafted jewelry. They are committed to sustainable luxury business practices, its craftspeople, and the preservation of Bali. The business prides itself on the value of authenticity; it is the soul of community that makes each piece truly one of a kind.
As a certified member of the Responsible Jewellery Council, and Kimberley Process compliant, John Hardy is committed to codes of practice that ensure its stones, diamonds, and metals are conflict-free and ethically produced every step of the way.
Their commitment toward building a better tomorrow is always evolving.
INSIDER TIP SCAN THE DAILY HERALD NEWSPAPER OR TUNE IN TO ISLAND 92 RADIO FOR LEADS ON SALES, SPECIALS, MARKETS, AND MORE.
Then get really into the island vibe at Pacific Avenue with outfits from Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, and Au Noir. And if you’re looking for a swimsuit, Endless Summer Swimwear has you covered. This boutique features a stylish collection of beachwear and resort wear from renowned designers for women, men, and children.
You’ll find a great selection of jewelry and quality pieces that you will not see back home.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN STORE, located in downtown Philipsburg, welcomes guests from all over the world to The Friendly Island of St. Maarten. The store offers a relaxed, family atmosphere. Having been on the island for the past 43 years and with extensive jewelry experience, they are able to carefully select high-quality, trending jewelry designs and offer them at the lowest prices. You’ll find a great selection of jewelry and quality pieces that you will not see back home for low discounted prices. St. Maarten is truly a tax- and duty-free destination, unlike other islands who have their taxes built into their products.
The store offers diamonds and fine diamond jewelry
in all different shapes and sizes. Each jewelry piece purchased comes with a guarantee and its evaluation papers — plus, the savings and deals at Royal Caribbean Store are a great advantage for everyone!
In addition to diamond jewelry, they also carry a wide range of silver and Larimar jewelry. Larimar is unique to the Caribbean because of its magnificent turquoise blue colors. Royal Caribbean Store truly has something for everyone, in all price ranges. Deepak, the owner, is confident that they will find you a great deal! Visit Royal Caribbean Store, the best place to buy your jewelry in St. Maarten.
Royal Caribbean Store-Fine Jewelers has been helping customers in St. Maarten and beyond celebrate life’s special moments with our selection of exquisite, unique, and high end jewelry at duty free and tax free prices. We have a wide range of jewelry selections in diamonds, sapphires, rubies, tanzanites, emeralds, and much more. Come in and visit our Royal Caribbean family, and shop in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
You also may want to peruse the spirits at International Liquor & Tobacco and The Captain’s DutyFree Shop. Select a top-shelf rum to enjoy on island or back in your home bar.
Cost.U.Less carries a wide selection of goods at a great price. Shop for groceries, cocktail ingredients, and almost anything you may have forgotten to pack.
Established in 1980, Joe’s Jewelry International prides itself on its history as one of the first familyowned jewelers in St. Maarten.
WHILE YOU EXPLORE the beautiful island of St. Maarten/St. Martin, visit Joe’s Jewelry International for luxury jewelry shopping and gifts. Established in 1980, Joe’s Jewelry International prides itself on its history as one of the first family-owned jewelers in St. Maarten/St. Martin. Renowned for its personalized shopping experience and loyal clientele, Joe’s Jewelry offers the highest-quality designer pieces,
fine jewelry, Swiss timepieces, certified loose diamonds, and other rare and exotic precious gems — all at duty-free prices. It carries fine brands such as De Beers, Gucci, Rado, Girard-Perregaux, Movado, Tissot, Michele, Frédérique Constant, and Baume & Mercier. Joe’s Jewelry is committed to providing a large selection of some of the best luxury jewelry brands in the market at accessible prices.
While its selection includes many high-end pieces, it remains a place where you can find true value, with fashion brands like Calvin Klein, Hugo
Boss, and Swatch. You will not overpay for high-quality luxury brands or pieces. Joe’s Jewelry is also ranked No. 1 on Tripadvisor, with more than 2,000 five-star reviews. You’ll be greeted with a bottle of water, wine, or Champagne. Register in advance for a VIP shopping experience at www.joesjewelry.com/ vip-shopping-experience to ensure that all the jewelry you would like to view is in store when you visit. You will also receive a $50 gift card, complimentary Champagne, and a taxi to Philipsburg.
Aside from loyalty to its customers, many of whom have become friends, Joe’s Jewelry International remains steadfast to its philanthropic values. The company works to improve the lives of the most vulnerable, particularly children, living in the world’s least-developed regions. It supports nonprofit organizations, such as Children’s Hope India, which helps children rise from poverty to prosperity by nurturing the whole child by providing education, nutrition, medical care, and career-building services.
JEWELS & BEYOND
Larimar Pendant & Earrings Set www.jewelsandbeyond.com
Sterling Silver Handmade Bali Bracelet
Canary Yellow Diamond Necklace with White Diamond Halo www.infinityjeweler.com
14k, 18k Diamond Bands Available in Eternity and Half Diamond Bands
Safi Kilima Tanzanite Ring www.diamondsinternational.com
JOE’S JEWELRY INTERNATIONAL
Movado BOLD Verso Chronograph, 44mm, Yellow Gold Ion-Plated Stainless-Steel Case and Bracelet www.joesjewelry.com
JOE’S JEWELRY
INTERNATIONAL
14k Gold Mother of Pearl Butterfly 18" Necklace www.joesjewelry.com
CARIBBEAN GEMS
GIA- Certified Natural Yellow Diamonds www.caribbeangems.com
From trending timepieces to stunning jewelry and more, you’ll find just what you need in St. Maarten/St. Martin.
CARIBBEAN GEMS
New & Hot! Flexible Diamond Bangles www.caribbeangems.com
JEWELS & BEYOND
Certified Shipwreck Coin Anchor Pendant www.jewelsandbeyond.com
ISLAND TREASURES JEWELERS
14k and 18k Two-Tone Gold Starfish Bangle with Round Brilliants www.islandjewelrysxm.com
Pre-Owned Rolex Watch www.oro-diamante.com (Oro Diamanté is an independent pre-owned watch dealer and is not affiliated with Rolex S.A., Rolex USA, or any other brands.)
BOOLCHAND’S PANDORA
Anchored Cruise Ship Charm www.boolchand.com
RADISSON JEWELS
14k Multicolor Floating Necklace www.radissonjewels.com
JOE’S JEWELRY INTERNATIONAL
Girard-Perregaux, Laureato 42mm Watch www.joesjewelry.com
INFINITY JEWELERS
18K Gold with Natural Canary Yellow and White Diamond Ring www.infinityjeweler.com
BALLERINA JEWELERS
Swatch Peace Hand Love Watch www.ballerina-jewelers.com
14K White Gold Bracelet with 3.94 CT Yellow & White Diamonds www.rcstoresxm.com
RADISSON JEWELS
Mary Frances Camera Handbag www.radissonjewels.com
Roberto Coin — Love in Verona Collection with Diamonds www.artoftimejewelers.com
Diamond Eternity Rings www.ballerina-jewelers.com
Grand Seiko — SBGK015,
Ceylon Sapphire and Diamond Rings www.ballerina-jewelers.com
BOOLCHAND’S PANDORA
Airplane, Globe, and Suitcase Dangle Charm www.boolchand.com
DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL
Gift Ring www.diamondsinternational.com
Baume & Mercier, Riviera 10688, Automatic Watch, Date Display, 42mm www.joesjewelry.com
Michel
Newport Slim Skeleton Watch www.ballerina-jewelers.com
Genuine Spanish Escudo Shipwreck Coin www.oro-diamante.com
HerbelinThis area is known as the island’s entertainment district, but it’s also a great place to shop. There’s a long road lined with shops, restaurants, activities, and more. You’ll also find a few ATMs and banks along the strip if you’re in need of cash for your retail excursion.
Simpson Bay is still a fishing village at heart. Visit the Simpson Bay Fish Market early in the day and watch the fisherfolk bringing in their catch. If you’re staying in a villa, you may consider buying some fresh fish for dinner. Fish or not, Prime Distributors is a worth a visit to stock your vacation pantry and bar.
If you’re looking for handcrafted flavored rums and spirits, look no further than Topper’s Rhum Distillery. Take home a few bottles for yourself and to share with your friends and family.
The works of island-based artists can be found at The Art Box Gallery,
where artistic treasures abound. Here you’ll find locally made fine and costume jewelry, as well as museum-quality arts and crafts and other collectibles.
Established in 2010, St. Maarten Nectar offers all-natural vegan skin care products in its Shop and Spa made on the island from high-quality ingredients. Shop their unique selection of skin care, home fragrances, and more — all made from 100 percent natural ingredients.
You’ll also find soothing products and a variety of remedies at Simpson Bay Pharmacy. They carry an international assortment of medicines, cosmetics and personal-care products. And know that Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store and Endless Summer, which offers swimwear and resort wear for the whole family, have branches in Simpson Bay.
By Alita Singh
At Carrefour Market, chefs and home cooks alike can find everything they need to create memorable meals. It’s no wonder, then, that St. Maarten/St. Martin is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.
Thilak Pillai, a longtime Carrefour manager, says the island’s largest supermarket chain prides itself in stocking shelves
with a variety of products from around the world, including the Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia. He invites shoppers to browse the aisles and seek out ways to jazz up their signature dishes or get inspired to try out a new cuisine.
Visitors as well call on Carrefour stores in Philipsburg, Cole Bay, Jordan Village, and Porto Cupecoy to provision yachts and stock the refrigerators and pantries of private villas and other vacation spots.
The increase in people opting for a plant-based lifestyle has not escaped the notice of Carrefour. The supermarket carries the island’s largest selection of plant-based products from top brands in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
The fresh market section of Carrefour is as abundant as a farmers market. Some fruits and vegetables are gathered from small local growers. Farmers from neighboring islands also contribute to the selection,
which is augmented by produce shipped from all over the world.
What’s more, the supermarket recently added a full bakery section. Breads, cakes, and pastries are available freshly made at Carrefour. The selection of breads ranges from regular sandwich slices to artisan French loaves.
When making any dish that requires the creaminess of cheese, a trip to Carrefour is all that’s called for. That’s because the dairy section is loaded with cheeses, including Dutch staples and French favorites.
Pillai says ensuring that shoppers want for nothing on their shopping lists is the goal of Carrefour. “We have fresh produce, including organic fruits and vegetables. There’s also a huge assortment of liquors, beverages, cigars and cigarettes, dairy products, a bakery section, cleaning items, and a lot more. Come shop with us.”
Maho is more than a charming village — it’s a destination unto itself that is worth visiting. You’ll find a treasure trove of shopping, dining, and entertainment options here.
Check out everything that glitters at Island Treasure Jewelers and Radisson Jewelers, both of which offer a wide array of eyecatching jewelry for yourself or that special someone. As its name implies, Jewels & Beyond carries more than just jewels. Find liquors, souvenirs, linens, and even Cuban cigars at this one-stop shop.
Add some glamor to your wardrobe at Arianna’s Boutique and Sunrise Gifts Shop. The boutique boasts chic styles for your next outing, while the gift shop offers unique trinkets, souvenirs, Cuban cigars, and more. In addition, supplements, skin care products, medicines, and more are on hand at Maho Pharmacy.
For after-hours retail therapy, you can’t go wrong at The Morgan Resort & Spa, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, and Sonesta Ocean Point, where you can browse to your heart’s content.
Did you know you can search for shopping, dining, and attractions at www.visitstmaarten.com?
Also, scan the QR code to download the Visit St. Maarten app while on the go!
FEATURING AN IMPRESSIVE ARRAY of exclusive jewelry, Swiss and German timepieces, pre-owned Rolex watches, and pre-loved Louis Vuitton bags, Radisson Jewels takes pride in helping customers choose the perfect gift for themselves or their loved ones. Radisson Jewels’ trained experts are here to make your search for the perfect accessory a once-in-alifetime experience. Located at Maho, Radisson Jewels is just 1 km (0.6 mile) from Princess Juliana International Airport and offers two locations and late-night shopping options. Scan the QR code for a free gift and complimentary drink.
Courtesy of Radisson Jewels
Radisson Jewels takes pride in helping customers choose the perfect gift for themselves or their loved ones.
BY ALITA SINGH
Island-made products are souvenirs to treasure.
Nalia Muriel, founder of St. Maarten Nectar, started out making products to treat her sensitive skin. Today her all-natural formulas are jarred and bottled for you to take home. Also, look for Mara Soaps. They’re made with ingredients to love your skin.
Created by island girl Jennifer Carty, the Aroma Island Escape collection of candles and infusers will transport you to your own private island. You can even make your own scent at Tijon Parfumerie in French St. Martin. Choose from among 300 oils to come up with your unique signature scent. Blend, bottle, and savor to relive your island vacation again and again.
In St. Maarten/St. Martin, Sir Roland Richardson is the personification of art. As the island’s preeminent artist, Richardson, a Knight in the Order of Oranje-Nassau, is known for his vibrant canvases of flamboyant trees, landscapes, and portraits. See his work at his gallery in Marigot, online, or at select art galleries and locations.
How about making your own island treasure? This is possible by visiting photographer Richard Hazel of RTGH Photography. Arrange for a family photoshoot, glamor shots, or tantalizing portraits for your someone special. A photograph is a lifelong memory.
Here’s a conversation starter you won’t find at Walmart: a Titah Frock from Our Creations Arts and Crafts Foundation. It’s a colorful figurine dressed in old-time patchwork. It’s called a “titah” after the name some island babies give an older sibling before they can pronounce “sister.” Visitors will enjoy hearing the folksy story when they see it displayed in your home.
Also, take time out to browse The Art Box Gallery. This is the home of island jewelry designer Zdenka Kiric. She captures the essence of this Caribbean isle in her selection of stones and other materials. You’ll also find works of art in numerous styles and so much more.
Guavaberries are harvested from the island’s hillsides, soaked in rum, and left to ferment into a delicious liqueur. Once available at Christmas, it’s on hand now year-round from several makers who blend their special batches and flavors.
In addition, you’ll find a variety of locally made rums from family distilleries like Topper’s Rhum, as well as small-batch craft beers from Caribbean Brewing Company. A bottle of any of these are sure to make a special island souvenir or gift.
Don’t go home without a souvenir that says St. Maarten/St. Martin. Products made on the island make one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends, and they’ll always remind you of your vacation adventures in paradise. Here are a few of our favorites.
DUTCH BLONDE WAS BORN IN EARLY 2019 when St. Maarten/ St. Martin’s Caribbean Brewing Company started with the production of local St. Maarten/St. Martin beer. The company has continued to pride itself on its consistency, palatability, and variety. Its beers are made fresh with the finest malts, hops, and natural ingredients; they’re also organic, unfiltered, and unpasteurized and don’t contain any corn syrup or preservatives. Caribbean Brewing Company offers a unique brewery tour that gets you up close and personal with the entire beer-making process. In the taproom, you can sample the various flavors. Take a video and make all your friends jealous by drinking straight out of the fermentation tank! The tour has been rated the No. 1 brewery tour on Tripadvisor.
As one of the most popular beers they brew, Dutch Blonde received the 2021 London Beer Competition Silver Medal. The jury described the brew as “fruity and spicy with honey, orange,
and clove flavors … overall very complex and refreshing.” Caribbean Brewing Company was also awarded the 2022 North, South & Central Americas Travel & Hospitality Award, an honor based on the aggregation of reviews from multiple thirdparty sources. Winners are those who can demonstrate their uniqueness, quality of services and facilities, and exceptional levels of customer care across a number of categories.
Proudly named after this “lady,” Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, located on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg, is the newest hot spot offering a great variety of entertainment and true goodies. You can have a great time enjoying the best beers, cocktails, wines, and creative mixes like the Naughty Blonde. Many gather on Friday evenings for karaoke or come to play giant Jenga. Once a week you can take part in a wine tasting of five thoughtfully selected French wines paired with five Dutch cheeses. And every day of the week, you can eat your heart out enjoying special Dutch pancakes and poffertjes, among other delicious dishes and snacks. Don’t forget to try the Dutch stroopwafel and the yummy stroopwafel cheesecake!
Also at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, you will find the Caribbean’s premier escape rooms. Experience this exciting reallife adventure game in one of four settings. Discover clues, solve puzzles, and complete tasks in order to accomplish your goal and escape the room. For more information and to make reservations, visit www.dutchblondeexperiences.com or call 721-543-3314. This hot spot has it all!
Embark on a gustatory tour of the world when you dine in St. Maarten/St. Martin. The food here is part Dutch, part French, and a whole lot of Caribbean — all influenced by the tastes and techniques of those who have settled here from around the globe.
Visit in November and enjoy St. Maarten Flavors, a month of restaurant specials to get your taste buds tingling. You can run the gamut of flavorful finds, from world-class cuisine by noted chefs to street treats like kapsalon, a Dutch snack of fries smothered in meat, cheese, and sauce. And don’t overlook the island’s French-style bakeries and supermarkets stocked with products from every corner.
Getting hungry? Come with us on an island tour that’s sure to please your palate.
The capital of the Dutch side is famous for duty-free shopping, but it’s also a culinary hot spot. Dotted with beach bars and waterfront restaurants catering to myriad tastes, this bustling little town holds its own in the culinary world.
Holland House Beach Hotel’s Ocean Lounge is the epitome of chic beach dining for lunch or dinner. Gaze at the wide expanse of Great Bay, the Boardwalk, and Port St. Maarten as you enjoy flavorful dishes with wine or crafted cocktails.
Aziana Asian Fusion Food Bar also should be at the top of your list. You have never had a poke bowl until you’ve tried it here. How about an eggplant sushi roll? Classic dishes such as fried rice and flavorful soups also populate the menu. It’s a good lunch spot to refuel for your shopping day and a place to return for drinks and dinner as the sun slips behind the boats in Great Bay.
Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store is a great place to discover the Dutch side’s link to The Netherlands. Enjoy cheese and wine tastings for a unique local treat. Another popular venue that celebrates Dutch culture is the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar on the Boardwalk. Taste island-crafted beers such as the restaurant’s namesake, as well as other delights.
Prefer to picnic on the beach or relax in your hotel room? Domino’s Pizza has you covered. This is the same famous Domino’s that you’ll find in your hometown, but with a Caribbean vibe. The pies are piping hot and always fresh.
In addition, you can stock up at one of the Carrefour Markets. The shelves are brimming with familiar and exotic ingredients that call to your inner chef — or the chef on hand at your rental villa.
Did you know you can search for shopping, dining, and attractions at www.visitstmaarten.com?
Also, scan the QR code to download the Visit St. Maarten app while on the go!
ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO SPOT top chefs on the island is among the aisles at Carrefour Market, the largest supermarket chain in St. Maarten. Carrefour Market is synonymous with comfort and offers its customers an ultimate shopping experience. They stock a huge range of fresh, thoughtfully sourced groceries from around the world.
The produce is fresh and replenished throughout the week and includes organic fruits and vegetables. The dairy section is arguably the best on the island. They carry a huge range of wines, spirits, aperitifs, and mixers to choose from and have the finest snacks. You
can also purchase duty-free liquors in singles or bulk.
Carrefour Market has two major outlets with 40,000 square feet each — one located on Bush Road and the other in Cole Bay. With Carrefour Express, the chain has expanded further with two more locations in Porto Cupecoy and Jordan Village, reaching customers in those areas.
Whether you are on the Dutch side or just across the border on the French side, you are never far from a huge assortment of quality products, ample parking, a hygienic and shopper-friendly ambience, and prompt assistance in every aisle.
79 Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4400
53 Union Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3118
Porto Cupecoy, Rhine Road Tel: +1 721-545-3162
Jordan Village, Cupecoy Tel: +1 721-545-5259
cmsxm.net email@cmsxm.net
This is the epicenter of the Dutch side’s entertainment scene. There’s more than something for everyone. Do you just want a cocktail? This stretch has you covered. Live music? Check! How about food? Yes, and a bit more.
You may want to try one of everything at Balls & Wine. The tacos and cheese balls are tempting, and the wine list covers all the bases.
It’s stuffed grape leaves and hummus at Beirut. The meats are seasoned to perfection and will transport you to the Middle Eastern city for which the restaurant is named.
Beach vibes and good food star at Buccaneer Beach Bar. Brick oven–fired pizza, sizzling burgers, and finger foods are on hand all day at this hopping corner of Kim Sha Beach. The beach parties are epic, and so is the huge fireball that awes patrons as it competes with the setting sun.
If you are looking for the best authentic Sicilian Italian food then Sale & Pepe is the place! Using fresh fish and a variety of other seafood, Chef Davide Davide is happy to work and mix directly imported Sicilian products with fresh Caribbean ingredients. Described by established customers as a convivial rallying place, you will most definitely feel like eating Grandma’s recipes in a modern and romantic atmosphere. Dining on the water at Sale & Pepe is a MUST experience with a magnificent 190º view, friendly staff and superb food. You will not be disappointed! You can enjoy your meal with exclusive Sicilian wine from the Etna mountain in Catania. Open for Lunch and Dinner.
Karakter Beach Bar/Restaurant is located on the mile long Simpson Bay Beach with the runway passing behind and the airport only a 5 minute car drive away. It makes Karakter the perfect first stop after landing and last stop before taking off. Simpson Bay Beach is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches on St.Maarten.
Complementary comfortable beach loungers are offered to the guests. The kitchen is open from 9 am till 10 pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Most nights of the week, Karakter offers live entertainment and every Sunday a beach party, starting at 2 pm until late, with multiple DJ’s.
The menu offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, meat and fish dishes. Just a selection: Tuna tartar, Coconut shrimp salad, Carpaccio sandwich, Chicken sate, Red snapper, Grilled tuna, Pork tenderloin, Buratta salad, NY striploin, Sushi and Build your own burger. The wine and cocktail lists are extensive.
Mark Meijjer can almost qualify as an international man of mystery. He’s one of the friendly faces at Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant on the picturesque Simpson Bay Beach. Repeat customers know him as the owner of this laid-back, fun beach bar, famed from its parties and New Year’s Day swim.
Meijjer can easily be mistaken for having always been an “island boy” bonded with the beach. But there’s way more to this story, and it starts on a whole other island: Curaçao. Meijjer was visiting the sister Dutch Caribbean island and stopped at Karakter Beach for a refresher. A few beers in and a lively conversation with the beach bar’s owner ensued. That’s when he learned that there was another Karakter in St. Maarten.
“The owner said in passing he’d be willing to sell Karakter in St. Maarten. A few beers later, I said ‘perhaps I want to buy,’” shares Meijjer. This was how a black toga-wearing Amsterdam lawyer became the ever-smiling man of Karakter! This was almost eight years ago, and he has not thought twice about giving up the courtroom to serve a
different kind of clientele.
“I decided to retire early,” he adds, after finding his passion for the beach and for the island. “Karakter is a place where everyone is welcomed. I believe there are two kinds of people in the world — good people and bad people. All the good people are welcome at Karakter, and all the bad ones, they should just stay away.”
“Why come to Karakter?”
I ask. Meijjer emphatically responds, “Simpson Bay Beach is the most beautiful on the island. It’s just us here in this corner with the long whitesand beach stretching along. You can stroll and meet very few people. It’s tranquility.”
After that stroll, settle in at the beach bar and choose from a diverse menu covering Caribbean tastes, Dutch flavors, and lots more in between. “We cater to and have diverse guests. Our menu reflects this. There is something for everyone,” Meijjer says. The chicken satay is one of the menu’s top sellers.
By the end of our conversation, it was clear that Meijjer is where he’s meant to be and that he doesn’t miss the days in the courtroom. “Working here on the island, on the beach, is as good as it gets,” says Meijjer. “People are always happy and in a good mood when they come to Karakter. I like dealing with happy people. As a lawyer, no one calls to share good things. There’s dissatisfaction. Here, there are smiles and maybe someone shares they won the lottery,” he says with a smile.
Want to join in on the fun? Karakter has a beach party on Sundays and live music on most nights.
He swapped a law career for food and fun at a beach bar with personality.
MARK MEIJJER: A MAN OF KARAKTERCourtesy of Mark Meijjer J. Kevin Foltz
Nothing brings more smiles than a cone topped with yummy ice cream. Discover your signature island-made ice creams and gelatos at one of the many purveyors of all things frosty, creamy, and delicious. This is an adventure itself and a perfect treat for any or all of your vacation days.
At Topper’s in Cole Bay, order made-on-the-spot gelatos and sorbets in a rainbow of flavors. Get a scoop or more to enjoy as you overlook Simpson Bay Lagoon.
A refreshing ice cream on the beach is a picture-perfect moment. Treat yourself at Gelateria Milano on the Boardwalk. Take a seat and savor or stroll up the Boardwalk together with your little one.
Get ice cream and desserts in all forms at The Sugar Mill Café on Bush Road. You can even have ice cream for breakfast! How’s that for a good time?
Sweet & Turf on Airport Road has a variety of frozen yogurts and toppings. Hang out with the little ones or get your treat to go.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is home to Etna, the Caribbean Ice Cream. Discover this island gem at restaurants and ice cream parlors. Grab a tub to share from the freezer section of the supermarket. If you take a day trip to St. Barths or Anguilla, Etna is there, too.
Mary’s Boon has increasingly become a favorite escape for charter guests and yacht crews.
SITUATED IN THE MIDDLE OF SIMPSON BAY BEACH, south of Princess Juliana International Airport, this true Caribbean-style iconic beach hotel is “St. Maarten/St. Martin’s Little Secret.” Away from the crowds but near to the action, Mary’s Boon has increasingly become a favorite escape for charter guests and yacht crews, for both the hotel and the restaurant and bar — which come equally well recommended. In the evening, the restaurant at Mary’s Boon is one of the most romantic dining locations in St. Maarten/St. Martin, with the gentle surf breaking on the beach below the open-air bar and dining deck. The
Boon is open all day for cocktails. Hotel and day guests can enjoy the beach, relaxing on comfortable beach loungers, and soaking up Mary’s Boon hospitality — attentive staff, cocktails at The Boon Beach Bar, and a delicious lunch menu at the restaurant. In the evening, an equally delicious dinner menu adds to an unforgettable romantic dining experience. On Sunday Funday, live or DJ music on the beach ups the tempo and offers a great way for crews to spend the day away from the marina, yet right on the beach. Visit www.marysboon.com or call 721-545-7000 or 1-800-497-5834 for more information.
The Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant in Simpson Bay. The Boon was built as part of Mary’s Boon Hotel, a quaint 36-room hotel that has been a fixture of Simpson Bay since the 1970’s. The bar and restaurant boast oceanfront views and inside dining as well as beach seating. Umbrellas and chaise lounges are free of charge!...
Whether you are there for a beach lunch, an elegant dinner or an afternoon of sunbathing, water sports, or cocktails and music, “The Boon” will not disappoint. And for early birds, breakfast is served starting at 7:00 a.m. Ask any of the
bartenders for a refreshing twist to the usual cocktails and their signature Bloody Mary is hand mixed and topped with bacon. The lunch menu features the usual burgers, but the chefs also create a tuna tartare with wasabi ice cream on the side! Where the dinner menu is more seafood and steaks.
“Sunday Funday” is the highlight of the week, drawing locals and visitors. The beachfront bar is open and a deejay provides afternoon and evening music on the sand.
Be sure to allow a day (or two!) to add The Boon to your list of fun memories of St. Maarten!
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Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine features specialties from the subcontinent with a hint of Caribbean flare, reflecting the heritage of the chef and crew and bringing together a blend of spices and vibes. Vibes also are predominant at Karakter Beach Bar & Restaurant, along with a diverse menu and events like Sunday parties and a New Year’s bash. In addition, the location complements the entrees at The Hideaway at La Vista Resort. Savor meals around the pool along with heavenly views of the azure Caribbean Sea.
Fresh and flown-in seafood highlights the Sicilian menu at Sale & Pepe in Simpson Bay Lagoon. Chef Davide is also renowned for his freshly made pastas, as well as vegetarian delights. In addition, Lee’s Roadside Grill, a family-run restaurant, serves up fresh seafood cooked in a variety of ways. Caribbean lobsters fill the tanks at SkipJack’s. Pick your favorite and the chef will do the rest as you enjoy the views and swap stories with friends.
Topper’s Restaurant and Bar serves up international fare along with homey dishes like your grandma made. Sample signature rums and give your vocal cords a karaoke workout. The Boon restaurant at Mary’s Boon Beach Hotel on Simpson Bay Beach has been welcoming diners for decades. It retains its charm and ambience with a menu that caters to diverse culinary pleasures. And remember to head for Zee Best for mouthwatering, just-out-of-the-oven pastries, savory crepes, and other fresh offerings for breakfast and lunch.
Courtesy of Buccaneer Beach Bar
Buccaneer Beach Bar
BY ALITA SINGH
Enjoy a taste of Sicily in St. Maarten/ St. Martin.
BORN IN CATANIA, an ancient port city at the foot of Mount Etna on Sicily’s east coast, Chef Davide Zagami of Sale & Pepe Italian Sicilian Cucina restaurant has a deep connection with the sea and the cuisine spawned from it. He captures this essence in his dishes by opting only for the freshest, top-quality ingredients. Many of his dishes feature local ingredients, notably fresh seafood.
His enthusiasm and love of cooking are reflected in the mouthwatering dishes he creates from traditional and unconventional ingredients. In the two decades Chef Davide has called this island home, he has made his name synonymous with exceptional Italian cuisine.
The success of Sale & Pepe is a labor of love Chef Davide shares with his soulmate, Scarlet. The two met in St. Maarten in 2009, and their first offspring was their restaurant in Simpson Bay. The chef wanted his diners to connect with the land and water, which he prized back home in the Old Country. Sale & Pepe has achieved that dream for Chef Davide. This standout waterfront restaurant offers outdoor seating and boasts lagoon views. If you prefer to dine indoors, there is also a well-appointed, air-conditioned dining room.
When you dine with Chef
Davide and Scarlet, you are part of the family. They combine the chef’s talent and experience in the kitchen with Scarlet’s managerial experience and front-ofhouse presence. The menu is a combination of Italian cuisine and Caribbean influence, with options such as Linguine alle Vongole (clams) and Rigatoni alla Siciliana (with Italian sausage). Also delectable are the
risottos: one with porcini mushrooms, another is a vegetarian option featuring asparagus. Gluten-free pastas are available, and there are non-pasta main courses as well.
Sale & Pepe is the epitome of a family restaurant. Here is a family adding care and love as the base ingredient in every dish, and they are happy to share that with everyone.
A short distance from the border at Cole Bay and Bellevue, Port de Plaisance is a little haven with impressive amenities, including a resort, casino, marina with multimillion-dollar yachts, and memorable restaurants.
Mélange Grill, for example, is not your typical restaurant; it’s a destination. Select a grilling table and a variety of proteins and veggies cooked to your liking. In addition, Mélange has recently
introduced Hibachi, an interactive dining show. It’s a feast for your senses! They also offer an a la carte menu featuring steak and seafood, as well as vegan and gluten-free menu options.
Mandarin Pan Asian Cuisine & Sushi also offers a fusion of flavors that are sure to satisfy every palate. From sushi to stirfries, they feature a full-fledged Pan Asian menu including Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and the not-to-be-missed ramen bowls.
There’s no shortage of dining options here on the island’s “Gold Coast.” Start your feast at Da Waterhole, the anchor restaurant on Mullet Bay Beach. This spot has grown from its humble beginnings as a tiny barbeque joint to a full-fledged beach eatery. The barbecue is still some of the juiciest, and the menu has grown along with entertainment options.
Spices of India restaurant, meanwhile, adds fiery flavor and depth to the dining scene. Fear not, you can order your favorite curry as mild or as spicy as you desire. Craving Tex-Mex? Head for 3 Amigos, a bustling restaurant on the Maho strip. Every day the place is popping with classic drinks and good eats. JAX Steakhouse , meanwhile, offers choice cuts of meat as well as offerings that will appeal even to veggie-loving members of your tribe.
The Morgan Resort is home to Salt, one of island’s premier restaurants. Sit indoors in the chic setting or claim the Caribbean air poolside and listen to the tall palm tree sway as you sip your opening cocktail. Also worth a visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner is Rendez-Vous Lounge, tucked in a corner of a Mediterranean-style plaza.
It’s the month of St. Maarten Flavors, a premier event of the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA). Throughout the month, foodies can enjoy a three-course menu at a steal-of-a-deal at participating restaurants and bars. Menus usually feature a signature dish or cocktail combination from the restaurant or bar. For more information, visit www.stmaartenflavors.com Happy eating!
French & Italian Cuisine
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner served daily
Terrace-style dining located in Porto Cupecoy Open 7 days a week • For reservations, call 1.721.545.3070
THERE’S3 Amigos
With several culinary offerings around the bay, mesmerizing ocean views, and the distant twinkle of lights from neighboring St. Barths, Oyster Pond is a must-visit.
At Oyster Bay Beach Resort are two of the best restaurants in this border region: Infinity Restaurant and Veranda Market and Bistro Infinity showcases Italian fare with some Caribbean twists. The newer Veranda Market and Bistro serves up savory barbecue, rustic handmade pizzas, and more. You can dine in or order takeaway. But there’s a benefit to dining in: You’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the ocean while satiating your palate.
No matter where you go on St. Maarten/St. Martin, irresistible global cuisine awaits you. Grab a seat and try the inventive dishes in the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.
Veranda Market & Bistro and Infinity Restaurant at Oyster Bay Beach Resort: a Sophisticated Beach Bar, Gourmet Market and Fine Dining — all with captivating ocean views overlooking St. Barth’s and Dawn Beach.
Live a little, live a lot at:
Sunday Brunch Buffet at Infinity Restaurant: 11:30am–3:00pm Call 543-6040 ext. 3825 for reservations.
FUN FACT YOU CAN DINE IN OR ORDER TAKEAWAY. BUT THERE’S A BENEFIT TO DINING IN: YOU’LL BE REWARDED WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS OF THE OCEAN WHILE SATIATING YOUR PALATE.
Raise a glass to the craft brewers of St. Maarten/St. Martin.
BEER IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S OLDEST DRINKS. It was once the cleanest source of hydration when water brought with it a host of issues. Today, beer is a refresher and a connector of people all over the world.
The duty-free status of St. Maarten/St. Martin has made it an inviting place to sample international beers, but don’t leave without sipping a craft beer made right here on the island.
In 2021, Dutch Blonde Experiences took home the prestigious 2021 London Beer Competition Silver Medal. The winning brew: Dutch Blonde, a fruity, spicy beer with honey, orange, and clove undertones. Most recently, Dutch Blonde Ale’s brewery, Caribbean Brewing Company , was named a Travel & Hospitality Award
Winner for 2022. The brewery’s international renown is coupled with regional recognition in the islands of the northeastern Caribbean. Grab your bottle of Dutch Blonde, San Martin, or Pirate’s Edition at Dutch Blonde Beach Bar and Restaurant on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg.
SXM Beer co-founder Scott Brockie first visited the island almost 30 years ago. He wanted to taste a locally brewed beer and was disappointed after being offered beers from other Caribbean islands and faraway countries. An idea fermented in his mind to brew a quality beer on St. Maarten/St. Martin. That idea manifested after he joined forces with Pascal de Lacaze. Thank your taste buds that the business partners came up with SXM
Beer, a crisp European-style lager with a mild, malty undertone highlighted by soft floral hops.
Pelikaan Brewery was also a product of longing for a beer made on the island. French creative artist Stephen Winkel partnered with Nicolas “Nico” Carlini, a computer scientist who emigrated from Argentina, and began to brew up their
dreams in Cole Bay. Now you can sip the beers of their labor: Mullet Bay, Point Blanche, Soualiga, Irma Pale Ale, and Mont Careta. You’ll be glad that Winkel and Carlini got together.
All three breweries offer tours of their operations with tasting packages. Add one or all of them to your must-do list and savor the day you did.
From sizzling casinos and lively beach bars to clubs where you can dance your shoes off, St. Maarten/ St. Martin abounds with ways to entertain you until the sun comes up again. Here’s a taste of some of the island’s must-visit entertainment venues.
A good spot to start off is Da Waterhole on Mullet Bay Beach. This beach restaurant and bar morph seamlessly from a daytime eatery to a sundown hot spot. Lounge on the beach as music wafts over you or dance with the sand between your toes.
A little way up from the beach is 3 Amigos in Maho. This is a lively spot with music, drinks, nibbles, and so much fun you may want to make it one of your home-away-from-home addresses.
Just across the street, Lady Luck lives in Casino Royale at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa. Raise the stakes in this casino, which spans over 21,000 square feet, with the largest gaming and entertainment options on the island. Take your winnings and treat your honey at one of the top-rated restaurants, bars, and lounges above or next door or across the street in Maho Village.
Want to test out your vocal cords? Then your destination must be Topper’s Restaurant & Bar in Cole Bay. This is the No. 1 place for undiscovered pop stars to get a cheer. In between tracks, enjoy a meal from Topper’s extensive menu or have the
bartender mix up a craft cocktail. There’s also delicious made-on-the-spot ice cream.
AMAsterdam on Front Street has many layers. Grab a chilled beer when taking a break from exploring Philipsburg or join the after-work crowd for some Dutch Caribbean–style socializing. Enjoy the music and a variety of beers as well as cheeses, Dutch snacks, and more.
Take a seat at the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar and Restaurant in the windmill on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg. Sip a local, award-winning beer and channel your inner Houdini in one of the island’s only escape rooms.
The Rusty Parrot has been designed to resemble a wrecked ship on the shore of Great Bay, but it’s an interactive entertainment venue that takes you back to the days when pirates roamed the sea. On deck you’ll enjoy cocktails, nibbles, and music, along with views of Philipsburg and the peninsula of Fort Amsterdam.
Located on Kim Sha Beach, Buccaneer Beach Bar is the place where visitors and locals alike come together to enjoy a tiki-style island bar, great food, live music, fireballs on the beach, and breathtaking sunsets.
Some folks say “Happy Hour” was invented on St. Maarten/St. Martin. True or not, the fun starts around 4 p.m. daily with drink specials and good eats.
Here’s an insider tip for charting an unforgettable night flight. Check The DailyHerald, the island’s main English-language newspaper, for updates about events and festivities. On Thursdays, the “Out n’ About” section showcases funfilled events for the week ahead. You also can tune in to Island 92 Radio to get the party started.
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets on St. Maarten/ St. Martin.
BY RISELLE CELESTINA
St. Maarten/St. Martin’s artists tantalize the senses, inviting you to experience this beautiful island through their creative perspective.
St. Maarten/St. Martin has always been a cultural melting pot, inspiring many to express their appreciation and love for the island through art. Over the last few years, the island has seen an explosion of colorful murals, hit songs, breathtaking canvases, and even videos by new emerging artists joining the long list of well-known local talents that have been inspiring us with their creativity for years. The pandemic surely helped many come out of their shell and express themselves creatively, and it definitively enticed one of St. Maarten/ St. Martin’s most popular bands to return home.
Named after a neighborhood on the island, Orange Grove has long been drawing huge crowds with their addictive sounds and amazing stage presence. It’s not reggae. It’s not rock. Even better, it’s a great blend of ska, reggae, rap, and rock. To keep it simple, Orange Grove performs music that’s loved by the band with lyrics centered on their favorite topics. With songs like “Easy Love,” “Right One,” and “Blessed,” the band has entertained for years with lyrics derived from their island life.
After a long stretch in The Netherlands, where they produced album after album with hit song after hit song, Orange Grove is finally back on the island, hopefully for good.
“I had been living in The Netherlands for 25 years and always knew that I’d be returning home one day, no matter what,” explains St. Maarten/St. Martin–born lead singer Michael Maidwell. “With everything that has been going on with the pandemic, I did not want to get stuck in The Netherlands and not be able to travel back home to my family.”
Download Orange Grove’s latest album, Ganja Rock, which is sure to get you into that good island vibe.
Another local artist to look out for is Tamillia. This young, beautiful, and amazingly talented singer, songwriter, and composer started her singing career at the tender age of 8, appeared on France’s The Voice Kids, and has recently signed with a record label. Like many of her generation, 19-year-old Tamillia can be found on popular social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where she posts regular videos of her singing — whenever she is not mesmerizing audiences at live events all over the island, that is.
St. Maarten’s nightlife has long been compared to that of Las Vegas, and with the many neon lights, bustling bars, and flashy casinos, it is easy to see why. But you don’t have to wait until dusk to enjoy the island’s party life. The party scene on St. Maarten starts early, usually on the beach where you can dance under the blue skies with your feet in the sand to music by international and local DJs like Outkast, Ajay Raw, King Kembe, Stov3, Maestro, and Big Boss. Take the chairlift to the elevated
deck at Rainforest Adventures to marvel at spectacular sunsets while you dance to pulsating house and techno music at the monthly Elev8 event, and when night falls, get down to music by live bands at the many pubs, clubs, and bars all around the island.
If electronic music is your vibe, then the annual SXM Festival is a must-attend event. Described as five days and nights of tropical bliss, this event pulls a large crowd of techno and house music enthusiasts from all over the world, making both sides of the island its playground. From sprawling villas to deserted beaches, this festival changes location daily, bringing to each one world-class electronic music and mindblowing art. The 2023 SXM Festival takes place from March 8–12.
For those interested in events with a more cultural aspect, carnival is an obvious must-do. The island offers not one but two Carnival celebrations. The Carnaval de St. Martin is from February 10–21, while the Dutch side Carnival starts on April 16 and continues well into the first week of May. Enjoy colorful parades, pageants, exciting calypso competitions, Caribbean Flag Fest, lots of mouthwatering food, and well-produced concerts with international, regional, and local talents. If your travel dates to St. Maarten/St. Martin do not correspond with the carnival dates, don’t worry. There are many other cultural events happening on both sides of the island throughout the year.
For those seeking a more laid-back and sensual vibe, check out monthly poetry nights at Rusty Rocket. The Poets Lounge started in 2014 when a group of young St. Maarten/St. Martin poets realized that the island was missing a sustained outlet for themselves and other poets to express their talent. The open-mic event happens the second Wednesday of every month.
One participating poet is the lovely Rochelle Ward, an awardwinning poet, teacher, and blogger who’s long been captivating audiences and readers with her work at literary festivals and events in Anguilla, Dominica, St. Maarten/St. Martin, and Nevis. She also writes under the name Faizah Tabasamu, and her latest poetry book, Tangle, has been called “haunting” and “sensual.” Her poetry can also be found along with works by other island poets in Where I See the Sun and on her blog Saltfish and Lace, where she writes on topics such as hair and beauty care, Caribbean lifestyle, the environment, and books she has reviewed. Find Rochelle at the annual St. Martin Book Fair happening every first weekend of June.
Art touches all five senses — we hear melodic music, smell handmade soaps and perfumes, experience the sense of touch during dances like Kizomba or salsa, and we taste sumptuous flavors at the many restaurants and culinary events on St. Maarten/St. Martin. But it’s the sense of sight that is most often associated with art, and St. Maarten/St. Martin has no shortage of talented visual artists who captivate and tantalize our emotions through colorful paintings, beautiful sculptures, and more.
Galleries are plentiful on the island, and The Art Café is one that’s not to be missed. Vivid canvases depicting different aspects of island life on St. Maarten/St. Martin, art made from waste, and beautiful pottery can be found at this gallery and art school, located on Front Street above Honeypot Reserve. Take the brightly colored stairs from the parking lot and walk into a world of hues. Here, you will find the artists behind the art café. Tes Verheij, a painter and longtime supporter of the art scene on St. Maarten/St. Martin, along with friend and business partner, potter Lauery-Ann Fairbairn, welcome you to unleash your inner artist by
participating in their pottery or painting classes.
Tes is also a driving force behind an initiative called Artists United SXM. Together with local talents like fashion and print designer Zillah Duzon, Recycle Art SXM founder Nascha Kagie, and art teacher Annemiek van Kerkhof-Pothuma, among others, they have launched the All You Need Is Art window exhibition, where shop owners donate window spaces to display art by some of St. Maarten/St. Martin’s artists. You can enjoy this unique exhibition in Philipsburg in and around Royal Palm Plaza, and especially at Sheer restaurant, whose owner has long been an avid supporter of local arts.
The Art Box Gallery in Simpson Bay is another gem where you can find impressive works of art by local and international artists, including gorgeous jewelry by the owner of the gallery herself, Zdenka Kiric.
If cultural art is more of what you seek, step into the St. Maarten National Heritage Museum and support their efforts to promote, protect, and study aspects of the island’s history, culture, and natural environment by purchasing a beautiful memento from their gift shop.
While on the topic of cultural art, Sir Roland Richardson has long been among St. Maarten/St. Martin’s most respected local artists. His beautiful paintings of the red flamboyant tree are a staple in many galleries across the island. Nature and the local fauna are what inspires this artist with more than 50 years of experience. A recipient of a lifetime achievement award from the French government and a Knight of the Order of Orange Nassau by the court of the then-queen of The Netherlands, Queen Beatrix, are just a few of the honors in Sir Richardson’s name. He and the brilliant Ruby Bute serve as the unofficial matriarch and patriarch of St. Maarten/St. Martin’s art world.
Founded by Clara Reyes and Arlene Newhouse, the National Institute of Arts, better known as NIA, offers classes in dance, theater, and music to adults of all ages and children as young as two months old. The institute has taught many of St. Maarten/St. Martin’s talents, some of whom have ventured outside of the Caribbean, where they have excelled in dance and other forms of art and have become well known and respected in the international art scene. NIA, located at the John Larmonie Center in Philipsburg, hosts and organizes frequent outstanding performances on the island.
When Garry Duell, Publisher of Visit SXM, asked us to be in their new 2023 Visit SXM, we wondered…our Marigot gallery museum has been closed throughout the pandemic economy. Roland was ill with double pneumonia while all the world was suffering as well. Thankfully, Roland’s health has greatly improved but our plan to not reopen our 30-year business while assessing with the French Collectivite, our local government, the viability of transitioning it into a national museum. Garry emphatically encouraged us! He said, “Sir Roland Richardson is an icon for St. Martin. His work encompasses all that is beautiful and everything most loved here. He has painted St. Martin’s natural phenomena over 50 years and created a treasure representing all its goodness.” Through the turbulence, Roland’s body of work preciously represents St. Martin’s most peaceful state and spirit of rejuvenation as an island destination.
Sir Roland Richardson is best-known for his colorful, luminescent “Plein Air”paintings created on location from life. His notoriety as a native artist has grown tremendously over his 50 year’s focus on his island’s natural beauty, customs, and people. His famous red Flamboyant trees are a recurring theme in his work, collected universally. He has had over 100 one-man international exhibitions, and articles featuring Sir Roland’s achievements have appeared in many major publications. In 2007 he was awarded the honor of Knight of the Order of Orange Nassau from the Court of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. He has also been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the French Government. Visitors can enjoy a magnificent installation of Sir Roland’s artworks at Belmond La Samanna resort, as well a lovely exhibition at the award-winning restaurant L’Auberge Gourmande in Grand Case. His website is a wonderful source to view his creations and direct contact to this exceptional artist.
www.rolandrichardson.com
BY RISELLE CELESTINA
When simply vacationing just isn’t enough to help you find your zen, turn to the island’s wellness experts to nourish your body and soul from the inside out.
or such a small island, St. Maarten/ St. Martin has a lot to offer. Whether you spend your time on the island trying your luck at the casinos, snorkeling in search of starfish and turtles, sunbathing on the many beaches, or hiking to hilltops offering the most breathtaking views, there is never a dull moment on St. Maarten/ St. Martin.
You can easily find yourself running from one activity and attraction to the next, trying to fit as many experiences as possible into just one vacation. But wouldn’t it be a shame if you got back from an amazing vacation, utterly exhausted and in need of rest, when you could have done all that destressing and relaxing when you were on the island? While here, take some time to spend on you.
A day at the beach with a cocktail in hand and a good book in the other certainly counts as taking care of your mental health, but St. Maarten/ St. Martin offers a multitude of other ways to nourish your body, mind, and spirit. Here are some ways you can take care of yourself and boost your mood while enjoying all that the island has to offer.
Both sides of the island offer amazing restaurants where you can truly indulge, many of which are catering more and more to the vegan and vegetarian crowd by offering plant-based deliciousness, proving that going meatless does not have to mean sacrificing flavor.
One such restaurant is Irie Gardens, located in the heart of Philipsburg at the Walter Plantz Square. It’s a small restaurant with just a few tables that dishes up large, mouthwatering servings of stir-fry veggie pasta, sweet polenta with plant-based meat, and a creamy vegetable soup that is just to die for, among many other options on its expansive menu. Sit outside in the Caribbean breeze while you watch passersby on their way to run errands in town or go for a walk on the adjacent Great Bay Beach while your meal is being prepared. Irie Gardens is open for breakfast and lunch.
GOOD TO KNOW ST. MAARTEN/ ST. MARTIN OFFERS A MULTITUDE OF WAYS TO NOURISH YOUR BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT.
For a unique vegan experience, head to Freedom Fighters Ital Shack where its slogan, “Ital is vital,” is taken seriously without sacrificing fun. Made fresh with local ingredients — some harvested right in its own little garden in the back — the menu changes daily but always offers a healthy and tasty meal. What started as a simple shack alongside a busy road catering mostly to Rastafarians has become the place to have lunch, whether you are vegan or not, largely thanks to the late Anthony Bourdain, who stopped here for a bite back in 2000 and helped spread the word about this colorful place. Ital Shack is open every day except Saturdays, serving breakfast, lunch, and fresh juices.
On the other side of Cole Bay Hill, you will find the island’s newest all-vegan dining option. Casa Vegan is in Maho just steps away from St. Maarten/St. Martin’s most popular attraction, Maho Beach, where visitors delight in watching incoming planes skim the beach before landing across the street at Princess Juliana International Airport. Casa Vegan offers delicious menu items made with fresh and organic ingredients sourced from local farmers and prepared by a chef with 20 years of experience. This restaurant puts quality above all else. Their 100 percent plant-based and gluten-free dishes can be enjoyed in-house or ordered online for pickup. Casa Vegan is open Tuesday through Saturday and serves up an impressive vegan brunch on Sundays.
Here’s a secret: You don’t need to head home to finally get your workout. Hit a gym or go on a hike and explore one of the many trails St. Maarten/ St. Martin has to offer, each one more beautiful and intense than the last. Now, you can combine a heart-pounding trek with a visit to the gym. Hike to the top of Naked Boy Hill and get a full-body workout, alfresco style with a killer view, at St. Maarten/St. Martin’s first and only hilltop gym. The Naked Boy Hill gym is free to use by anyone who can actually get to it.
Whether you are staying on the Dutch side or the French side of the island, chances are there is a yoga studio nearby or, better yet, a private instructor who’s willing to come to you. And just like that, you are out of excuses not to stay fit while on vacation.
Work on your chi, find your balance, and re-align your chakra under the guidance of trained instructors at studios like Island Rebel Yoga in Cole Bay, where you can start your day early and watch the sun rise over the Simpson Bay lagoon with their sunrise class. Or end your day with a restorative class in the evening. This studio has a strict policy to keep things fun while staying in shape with classes like Buti, vinyasa, and primal flow.
DID YOU KNOW?
ST. MAARTEN NECTAR HAS LONG BEEN A NAME SYNONYMOUS WITH NATURAL SKIN CARE AND AROMATHERAPY REMEDIES.J. Kevin Foltz St. Maarten Nectar
No matter the day of the week or whether you are a beginner or advanced yogi, you can hit the mat at Island Rebel Yoga or at any of the other studios around the island, like Grace Yoga Studio in Cupecoy, Joga in Cole Bay, La Plènitude in Friar’s Bay, or outdoors at the Ti Temple in Grand Case. Nurture your body with yoga, find your inner zen with meditation, or practice Contrology with Pilates. It’s all possible here in paradise.
Another easy and free way to keep yourself fit when vacationing in St. Maarten/St. Martin is to join the locals for a run or jog. Forget the treadmill and take your run to the streets, feeling the salty breeze on your skin while you get your sweat on. The Boardwalk in Philipsburg and the Simpson Bay Causeway are both excellent and safe places for joggers and runners alike. They’re also perfect for an early-morning or sunset stroll.
Breathe, disconnect, and relax at one of the island’s many spas. Experience the ultimate treatments that will heighten your senses and leave you feeling like new, ready to take on another day of island adventures.
St. Maarten Nectar has long been a name synonymous with natural skin care and aromatherapy remedies. Located at the Oyster Bay Resort, Nectar Wellness Spa is undoubtedly one of the best-known and preferred spas by both locals and visitors. Indulge in body treatments like Caribbean salt body scrub or the pineapple cilantro body polish, feel the stress drain from your body during one of the massages offered, and get your glamor on with a deluxe lemongrass manicure/pedi-
cure. Not only are you in experienced therapists’ capable hands, but also, the products used are 100 percent all natural, vegan, cruelty-free, and hand-made locally by St. Maarten Nectar.
The latest to hit St. Maarten’s spa scene is Blu Spa at The Morgan Resort. Forget your worries the second you open the double glass doors and walk inside this state-of-the-art spa, where nature meets luxury. The hair salon and manicure and pedicure area on the first floor are just an introduction to what awaits you on the second floor. Dimly lit by salt lamps, the treatment rooms exude pure zen. Leave your pre-spa life behind in the beautiful locker room — even if it’s only for a few hours — before entering the spacious sauna, where you’ll find one of the only salt walls on island. In between treatments, relax with a glass of flavored water or a mug of hot organic tea in the luxurious sitting area, decorated in calming earth tones with beautiful cushions in different shades of blue. Pamper yourself from head to toe with unique treatments like the Botanical Bounty, which starts with a scalp massage with avocado and carrot oil made from scratch and continues with a warm compression and body massage with chocolate oil before the grand finale: a mango butter foot massage.
Speaking of luxury, The Spa at La Samanna is undoubtedly one of the most heavenly spas on the island, combining indoor spaces with an outdoor element. Each suite here opens up onto your very own private lush tropical garden and comes with an outdoor shower, allowing you to feel completely in sync with nature. The serene atmosphere and exotic treatments like the Roucou pre-tanning body exfoliation and the Lomi Lomi massage keep clients coming back to this haven of relaxation year after year.
Breathe, disconnect, and relax at one of the island’s many spas.Courtesy of Blu Spa at The Morgan Resort Blu Spa at The Morgan Resort BY DEBBY LIND-STEYN AND JEFFREY LAIGN
Visiting nearby islands is a great way to extend your vacation in St. Maarten/St. Martin.
t. Maarten/St. Martin is more than a single destination. It’s a cultural hub. A Caribbean gem shared by two European nations — The Netherlands and France — it makes a great base for exploring nearby islands like Anguilla, Saba, St. Barthelemy, and St. Eustatius. They’re packed with cultural and natural attractions for an unforgettable day trip or island-hopping getaway, and you can easily reach them by plane, ferry, or private charter.
If you’re looking for more than sunny skies and fruity cocktails, devote a day or two to discovering the blissful tranquility of this British Overseas Territory. It’s just nine miles from St. Maarten/ St. Martin, and it’s easy and affordable to experience the blissful tranquility of Anguilla on a day trip. Sail cats Lambada and Tango depart daily from Aqua Mania Adventures in Simpson Bay. You don’t need to pack much, as these charter boats have everything you need on board.
SYou can also reach Anguilla via ferry from Marigot (French St. Martin). The ferry departs approximately every 45 minutes, but be sure to confirm in case of scheduling changes.
Stretching 16 miles from east to west, eel-shaped Anguilla has much to offer visitors. Diving and snorkeling are spectacular at scenic Little Bay. Learn more about the island’s history and culture on a walking tour of The Valley, Anguilla’s capital. Sample local cuisine and music at Sandy Ground and soak up serenity at Shoal Bay, Anguilla’s most famous beach.
The Territory also includes several small uninhabited islands that are well worth a visit. At Prickly Pear island, for example, you can snorkel through the outer reefs in crystal-clear water.
Once you open your senses and absorb the sights and sounds of this British jewel, you will feel a lot more relaxed. Let go of workaday worries as you stroll along pristine shores lined by fishing boats with richly painted wooden hulls. You’ll soon find yourself basking in the smiles of friendly locals on this island like no other.
This petite French isle just southeast of St. Maarten/St. Martin seamlessly blends local charm with sleek sophistication. Here you’ll find duty-free shopping, designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and hillsides dotted with stunning villas. No wonder Saint Barthélemy — St. Barths, as it is affectionately called — is known the world over as a playground for the rich and famous.
St. Barths is a short flight or ferry ride from St. Maarten/St. Martin. It takes just 55 minutes to reach St. Barths aboard the Edge. The high-speed ferry departs from Aqua Mania Adventures at Simpson Bay Resort. Great Bay Express also offers a high-speed ferry to St. Barths from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg. You can book your trip online or, if you prefer, board a plane from Princess Juliana International Airport.
The main harbor town of Gustavia is known for its French elegance and Caribbean gingerbread houses. Here you can rent a car or hire a taxi to take you on an island tour. Make your way through narrow streets while perusing name-brand boutiques and eclectic shops as you savor the smell of baguettes wafting from distinctly French bakeries.
St. Jean Beach and Shell Beach are popular spots for dining and relaxing, and you must stop at Nikki Beach, where you can feast on some of the island’s most delectable bites while rubbing shoulders with celebrities and enjoying that sweet Caribbean charm that makes this region so appealing.
Depending on what time of year you visit, you may have a chance to see the island in bloom. Frangipani and flamboyant trees color the hillsides and can be found in gardens and along the roads. The brilliant colors of the flowers stand out against the muted greens of the low brush that lines the hills and valleys.
Did You Know?
Depending on what time of year you visit, you may have a chance to see the island in bloom.
THE TRANQUIL ISLAND WELCOMES VISITORS IN SEARCH OF A CARIBBEAN PARADISE – AND THERE’S A LOT TO EXPLORE ON A DAY TRIP.
St. Eustatius, known locally as Statia (“Stay-sha”), is another special municipality of The Netherlands with appeal for nature lovers and history buffs. The island, for example, boasts several prime dive sites. Wrecks like the 328-foot-long Charles Brown are havens for schools of colorful fish and other fascinating underwater creatures. On an archaeological dive you may find pottery or glass shards, wine bottles, and maybe even an old Dutch clay pipe.
You’ll also want to seek out the island’s hiking trails. At the north end of the island are hills from the remnants of five extinct volcanoes. The Quill, a nonactive volcano, is at the south end of the island.
In addition, Statia is an island of historical significance. Once a major sea-lane stop for trade and commerce, it was a port of call for buccaneers and admirals throughout the 17th and 18th centuries.
Statia also was a vital link between the fledgling American colonies
Saba may be tiny, but this special municipality of The Netherlands offers much for ecotourists. Rocky cliffs, lush green forests, and mountains that seem to rise out of the ocean are just some of the island’s natural amenities.
Saba also boasts some of the best diving in the region. You’ll encounter a wide variety of sea life at Saba’s Marine Park. Turtles and lobsters are regular visitors to this spectacular underwater haven, and if you’re lucky, you may get to spot a whale or two.
Challenge yourself on a climb to the top of Mount Scenery, a nonactive volcano offering spectacular views. You must hike through a tropical rain forest and up hand-carved stone steps, but encounters with birds, plants, and other wildlife make this hike well worth the effort.
Visit the Saba Heritage Center in the village of Windwardside and learn more about the history and culture of this island known for charming villages, well-tended gardens, and friendly locals.
Journey to Saba aboard Edge, a high-speed ferry operated by Aqua Mania Adventures. You can book your 90-minute trip from Simpson Bay or online before you arrive. Packages include taxi tours around the island with lunch, hiking excursions with lunch and transfers, and guided adventures with local guides. With regularly scheduled service to Saba, the high-speed ferry offers competitive prices and a shuttle service.
and Europe, the first foreign entity, in fact, to officially recognize the United States of America as an independent nation.
Now, the tranquil island welcomes visitors in search of a Caribbean paradise — and there’s a lot to explore on a day trip. Oranjestad, the capital, is like a living museum with its historic, well-preserved buildings.
Getting to Statia is easy. Book a Winair flight from Princess Juliana International Airport or hop aboard a high-speed ferry. Great Bay Express and Makana offer services from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg.
St. Maarten/St. Martin appeals to international buyers looking to own a piece of paradise.
BY HARRISON DROUIN-REED
BY ALITA SINGH
Rent one of Jennifer’s Vacation Villas and enjoy luxury living with all the comforts of home.
NEVER SLEEP IN A BED WORSE THAN THE ONE YOU HAVE AT HOME is an adage many travelers live by. When traveling to St. Maarten/St. Martin, you’ll never have to feel like the titular character in the story of The Princess and the Pea because Jennifer’s Vacation Villas prides itself in offering listings that have all the hallmarks of home without the everyday stress.
Jennifer de Gonzague prides herself on matching her clients with the best location to suit their needs
and desires. Her commitment to quality is so innate, she ensures each client receives that personal touch and warm Caribbean welcome.
At 19, de Gonzague moved to sunny St. Maarten from the colder climes of New York. She went to work for White Sands Beach Club and later Mullet Bay Beach Resort. In 1990, her journey through the hospitality industry took her to Leslie’s Vacation Villas, where she stayed for about seven years before taking over the operation.
De Gonzague says she values the connections she has made with clients. “People know Jennifer’s Vacation Villas,” she says. “We give them that feeling of coming home.”
Jennifer’s Vacation Villas is a licensed management, real estate, and villa rental company specializing in luxurious private villas and condos on both the French and Dutch sides of the island. The rentals accommodate individuals and groups large and small, with all the comforts of home and then some — like privacy, breathing room, and jaw-dropping ocean views that instantly transport you to the great state of “serenity now!”
“Our goal,” de Gonzague says, “is to make your vacation stay as comfortable, accommodating, and easygoing as possible.”
DID YOU KNOW?
JENNIFER’S VACATION VILLAS IS A LICENSED MANAGEMENT, REAL ESTATE, AND VILLA RENTAL COMPANY SPECIALIZING IN LUXURIOUS PRIVATE VILLAS AND CONDOS.
That means eliminating stress by handling details, catering events, and offering up some pampering touches like massages and outings.
The boutique agency has built a reputation for meeting the individual needs of each client. “We are there to help,” says de Gonzague. “We are always reachable with whatever emergency they may have. We are there to get them a chef or to answer a simple question. It’s important we are accessible.”
Plaza Del Lago Simpson Bay Yacht Club, St. Maarten
Ph: (721) 544-3107 US Ph: (631) 546-7345 reservations@jennifersvacationvillas.com www.jennifersvacationvillas.com
The real estate sector on St. Maarten/St. Martin is experiencing a strong increase in demand from buyers looking to divest and invest as they see the island as a viable investment for the future. This is true for both commercial investors and people seeking a second home or planning a retirement in the sunshine.
As interest rates are rising in North America and Europe, investors are focusing their attention here. This is the engine driving significant construction activity on the island starting in the last two years, covering new residential construction, renovations, and new commercial developments on both sides of the island. The spin-off presents more investment opportunities for buyers looking to tap into new development projects more than in the past.
The island’s infrastructure also makes it even more attractive to home buyers. Its good regional and international air connectivity (get anywhere in the world via a direct or one-stop flight every day), shipping (air and ocean freight), and telecommunication infrastructure allow for remote work and cross-border business. The real estate offerings are diverse and attractive, spanning from a one-bedroom pied-à-terre to a family vacation villa. These factors are not easily found in other Caribbean islands, making St. Maarten/St. Martin a preferred destination for digital nomads and people looking to combine a better work/life balance.
The thriving vacation rental industry is another plus for home buyers. If a buyer decides to invest, they can tap into a mature market allowing them to profit immediately from an investment when they are off island. This is a viable option to sustain an investment over the long term, as secondary homes are often only used for a couple months of the year. While long-term rental is a possibility, this restricts property use by the owner. Thus, short-term rental is the best solution to generate revenue when a property is not in use by owners. Working with the right property management company is a serious consideration when seeking to benefit from the vacation rental market. Local professional property managers can advise on how to maximize revenue and protect the property.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed dynamics worldwide, and these changes have favored the
local real estate market. Travelers experienced St. Maarten/St. Marin in those days of limited travel, as it was one of the few islands to receive visitors, with strict protocol, in the end months of the pandemic. These travelers are returning to the island to invest. This is another factor pushing the island’s real estate market.
Each side of the island has its benefits for investing, giving home buyers many opportunities. Purchasing property on the French side presents benefits similar to buying in France, while buyers looking to capitalize on tax benefits can choose the Dutch side of the island. The Dutch side has no real estate taxes; however, rental income is subject to taxation. Additionally, there are no capital gains taxes when property is sold. Both sides of the island have an easy and safe sales process through the use of a neutral notary for both the buyer and seller.
With so much to offer in this cosmopolitan destination, St. Maarten/St. Martin is an excellent investment choice and the time to invest is now.
Harrison Drouin-Reed is the managing director and owner of St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty.
He has been in the real estate industry from a young age, as his mother, Lesley Reed, started the business in 1999. Both have guided discerning investors in the search for the perfect property, and they also provide full-scale services through their property management and vacation rental business.
Looking to experience more of the French side? La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, offers the ultimate in luxury, with dazzling white buildings that contrast beautifully against an azure sky and a platinum stretch of beach dotted with cabanas. The stylish suites are reflective of the colors of sea life, making it an ideal retreat for a memorable escape.From left: courtesy of St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty, RTGH Photography
Discover the resort where the new chapter of your life begins.
BY ALITA SINGHIF THE PANDEMIC HAS TAUGHT US ANYTHING, it is about what our homes mean to our well-being and the luxury of accessing the outdoors. Even before anyone could fathom how the world would irrevocably change, Indigo Green residential resort imagined a more balanced lifestyle that harmonized the environment with design.
The focus for many of us has now become, “How do we write the next chapter of our lives?” says Rene Lepine, Indigo Green’s developer. “We are all reevaluating our priorities about vacations, travel, work, family, and friends. At Indigo Green, we
strive to help with that reevaluation by offering a home away from home and, for some, a new take on remote work and living.”
In other words, says Lepine, the residential resort offers “a new way of looking at life and travel.”
Why invest in St. Maarten? At Indigo Green, the answers are multiple. The resort offers enticing retirement options, vacations in the sun and a solid investment — not to mention ocean views, beach access, a well-planned neighborhood, and proximity to amenities, dining, and entertainment. In addition, Dutch St. Maarten is dutyfree. There are no property taxes or capital gains taxes. Transfer taxes when you acquire property are only 4 percent.
Located in Indigo Bay, Indigo Green is St. Maarten’s only new oceanfront gated community. Its residents benefit from multiple pools and a private gym, all in a “green” resort-style setting. As a
master-planned community, deed restrictions will protect and preserve its elegant residential resort character. In fact, everything in Indigo Green has been planned and designed to offer the best possible product in residential living in all its forms.
With over four decades of experience, Lepine is especially keen on quality and resilience to local conditions such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and extended exposure to tropical sun and ocean air. This has led to the construction of all poured-in-place concrete, hurricane-resistant, insulated, modern villas and condos with high ceilings, oversized windows, and many other quality features.
“With 70 percent of our units already taken, some models and options are becoming limited, as is the time left to acquire your special corner of Indigo Green,” says Lepine. “So, take the first step and come discover what could become your own vacation or retirement home. Who knows? It might also become your life relocation destination.”
If you’re planning the next chapter in your life, ask yourself: “Don’t I deserve this?” Let the team at Indigo Green help you make it happen. Financing in US dollars is offered via international banks to qualified buyers with down payments as low as 35 percent.
For more information on Indigo Green, visit www.indigogreen.sx or call +1 721-543-7999 or toll-free +1 855-545-7999.
J. Kevin Foltz (2)DID YOU KNOW? INDIGO GREEN IS ST. MAARTEN’S ONLY NEW OCEANFRONT GATED COMMUNITY.
Pick up your own piece of the rock with the help of knowledgeable St. Maarten/ St. Martin native Harrison Drouin-Reed.
The real estate business courses through the veins of Harrison Drouin-Reed, managing director and broker at St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty. He grew up in the business, seeing his mom, Lesley Reed, make the
dream of buying a St. Maarten/St. Martin home a reality for her clients. He also experienced the way those clients, many of whom became family friends, connected with the island of his birth. DrouinReed says entering the real estate field on the island was “a natural transition” once his studies abroad were completed.
The island’s inventory is moving at a rapid pace after a bit of a slump due to Hurricane Irma in 2017. Now, properties are being sold quickly and new inventory is in the process of coming online. “This island is a viable investment,” he asserts.
Other factors that have contributed to the increased demand in real estate include ease of access from different parts of the world, the island’s geographic position in the Caribbean, and its welldeveloped infrastructure.
“St. Maarten has a lot to offer discerning clients who want a place for investment or as a vacation getaway,” Drouin-Reed says. “We are seeing more and more people from North America and Europe investing here, especially after the pandemic. We have a touch of European culture. We are accessible, and the real estate market is always on the move. This is a good time to consider the island.”
What’s more, St. Maarten/ St. Martin’s proximity to other islands offers more than a singular experience. “We offer a tri-island experience: St. Maarten/ St. Martin, St. Barths, and Anguilla,” he says. “There’s the European and Caribbean feel all in one.”
Drouin-Reed is passionate about his island. That passion and his commitment to real estate were further ignited when his real estate firm was franchised by Sotheby’s International Realty. St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty is the island’s leading full-service broker, offering sales and long-term rentals of soughtafter properties, luxury vacation rentals, and a topclass concierge service.
“I see the franchise as a way to also promote the destination and open it up more to high-net-worth individuals,” he says. “We have seen clients who only discovered the island via a friend’s recommendation or opted for a visit due to a direct flight. They come, and they fall in love with the island. The first step is getting them here; the rest falls into place.”
For those who are new to the island, Drouin-Reed has a suggestion: “Put on your swimsuit. Go to the beach — there are so many to choose from — and just soak up the sunshine.”
DID YOU KNOW? INDIGO GREEN IS ST. MAARTEN’S ONLY NEW OCEANFRONT GATED COMMUNITY.
Going out on a boat is another island must-do. “The waters off the island are incredible,” he shares. “The boating options are exceptional — from just going out on the water to see sea turtles and dolphins to taking a trip to Pinel or one of the neighboring islands, there is so much to do.”
He also encourages visitors and potential residents to sample the island’s cuisine: “This is the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. Try as many restaurants and cuisines as you can!”
From short-term vacation rentals to development opportunities, Sunshine Properties helps you find your piece of St. Maarten/St. Martin.
SUNSHINE PROPERTIES has had the great pleasure to contribute to St. Maarten/ St. Martin's real estate industry for more than 30 years with a dedicated team of professionals. Consequently, Sunshine Properties can assist you with all aspects of your real estate needs, familiarizing you with the market, ownership structures, purchasing procedures, property management, and architectural services to build your dream home or development. Sunshine Properties also offers a range of rental options from short-term vacation stays to long-term rentals if you want to extend your vacation indefinitely. The firm’s agents are very fortunate to serve an industry that did not suffer from the various financial crises, and in fact, real estate continues to boom
with more developments in all categories of properties. Buyers find a good ROI along with wellbeing and personalized comforts for their families.
Where you stay is a key part of your vacation experience — even if you don’t plan on spending that much time in your accommodations. Fortunately for you, the options throughout St. Maarten/St. Martin offer something for everyone. You can relax in a lounge chair and fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping ashore or get pampered at a luxury resort — or both. All you have to do is find the experience that most suits you.
Comprised of chic suites with dazzling white buildings, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, beckons first-time and repeat visitors. This lavish property on the French side is dotted with cabanas along the private beach. Whether you stay in for the night or head out to experience the island’s vibrant social scene, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
If you prefer to stay in a charming family-owned retreat, La Vista Resort in Simpson Bay may be just what you’re looking for. Featuring a combination of traditional Caribbean and European flair, the fully equipped luxury accommodations boast panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. What’s more, you will feel like a member of their extended family with all the personal touches.
Coming soon to the Indigo Bay shores of St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven Luxury Hotel and Residences offers guests a haven of luxury set against a lush coastal landscape, with pictureperfect sandy beaches and breathtaking views.
Take your pick among the island’s unique offerings and you’re sure to find that perfect home away from home.
Perched above Baie Longue, St Martin’s most spectacular beach, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, is a place where elegance and tranquility mingle in perfect harmony. Nurtured in the French joie de vivre and heritage, a getaway to La Samanna becomes a treasured memory. Diving into this season, La Samanna celebrates its 50 years as the sparkling gem of
encounters to an exclusive Artists in Residence Series.
Staying at La Samanna turns a trip to St. Martin into an unforgettably unique escape. Gather for a relaxing Caribbean vacation in total seclusion in some of the finest accommodations in St. Martin, each of the rooms and suites at La Samanna has its own distinct style and personality, designed to reflect the hypnotic shapes and colors of sea life. At night dress to impress and sample world-class restaurants before diving into the island’s vibrant social scene.
French side: European sockets run 220 V/60 Hz.
Dutch side: American sockets run 110 V and 220 V/50 Hz.
Both the French and Dutch side sell European and/or American appliances, adapters, and other electronics.
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 or 3:30 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to noon (some banks) There are 24-hour ATMs on both sides.
St. Maarten/St. Martin has 37 stunning beaches, all of which are public. Regulations vary according to the beach and which side of the island governs it. Make sure to check in advance regarding rules for swimming, surfing, hiking, topless sunbathing, and nude swimming.
The French side officially discourages beach nudity, though it is tolerated. Regardless of which side of the island you’re on, please be aware of other people, families with children, and private homes.
Business hours vary with the season. During high season, stores are likely to be open all day. Regular hours on the Dutch side are from 8:30 a.m. until 6
p.m., and shops are generally open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m. Large groceries are open until 8 p.m., and small groceries tend to stay open until 8 or 9 p.m. Stores on the French side open from 9 a.m. to approximately 7 p.m. but close for “extended lunch breaks,” approximately from noon to 2 p.m. Most stores close on Sunday, though some may open if there are cruise ships in port; and most groceries are open until noon.
St. Maarten/St. Martin has a subtropical climate with trade winds from the Caribbean Sea. The temperature averages around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). Hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends November 30. Sea temperature peaks at approximately 77 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 26 degrees Celsius) from August to October and is coldest around February, ranging from 72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 24 degrees Celsius).
The international dialing code to call Dutch St. Maarten is +1-721, and +590 to call French St. Martin.
Calling from Dutch St. Maarten
• To call within St. Maarten: seven-digit number
• To call French St. Martin: Landline: +590-590 + six-digit landline number
Mobile: +590-690 + six-digit mobile number
• To call USA: +1 + area code + number
• To call mainland France: +33 + 10-digit number
Calling from French St. Martin
• To call within St. Martin: Dial the number
• To call Dutch St. Maarten:
Landline: +1-721 + seven-digit landline number
Mobile: +1-721 + seven-digit mobile number
• To call United States: +1 + area code + number
• To call mainland France: 10-digit number
Free internet access is provided in most hotels, although some may charge a daily Wi-Fi fee. Check with your hotel prior to booking if internet is included. You can also rent a phone or buy a chip for your phone; contact Telem or UTS (Chippie) for current pricing.
Stay up to date with the latest protocols by visiting www.stmaartenehas.com/travel-requirements
We encourage you to shop, dine, and explore responsibly; and always follow the established protocols while traveling.
To ensure the safety and well-being of visitors, the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA), and occupational health expert company, Medwork, have launched SafeSeal, which serves as a visual recognition of a company’s commitment to the health and safety of its customers and employees. Specialized checklists have been created for businesses, lodging, retail establishments, restaurants, casinos, and various other lines of businesses. They must meet certain criteria to become certified as a SafeSeal Gold or Platinum Standard. Visit www.shta.com/safeseal for more information.
Although US dollars are accepted almost everywhere on both sides, the two official currencies are the euro on the French side and the Netherlands Antillean guilder (called NAf or florin) on the Dutch side. You can change money at banks and change points, like MoneyGram or Western Union; but be aware many places do not accept traveler’s checks, checks from foreign banks, or American Express. Most establishments will accept other major credit cards.
Although many tourist destinations claim to be duty-free, St. Maarten/St. Martin is the only destination in the West Indies that can truly claim a tax-free status; and there are no particular customs procedures. Products for personal use (tobacco, cameras, and video cameras) are permitted in small quantities without being subject to specific procedures or taxes.
With no customs duties, VAT, or other indirect taxes to pay, the island offers unbeatable prices on many items. Make sure to consult the authorities in your country to learn the conditions regarding taking items home after your visit. For EU residents: Travelers 16 years and older are allowed 200 cigarettes/50 cigars, two liters of wine and one liter of liquor (over 22 percent alcohol), or two liters of drinks (under 22 percent alcohol).
The legal drinking age on St. Maarten/St. Martin is 18 years.
Tips at restaurants are generally not included in the final bill but are welcome for good service. Tipping ranges from 10 to 20 percent, depending on the quality of service.
Vaccinations are not required when entering. St. Maarten/St. Martin tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended. High-SPF sunscreen is essential and recommended for those not used to intense sunlight. A good pair of sunglasses and a hat are strongly recommended. Protect yourself from mosquitoes by using nets, wearing long clothing, and using insect repellent.
January 1: New Year’s Day
February 10: St. Martin Carnival begins (French side)
February 21: Mardi Gras (French side)
March 2–5: Heineken Regatta
April 7: Good Friday
April 14: St. Maarten Carnival begins (Dutch side)
April 9: Easter Sunday
April 10: Easter Monday
April 27: King’s Day (Dutch side)
May 1: Labor Day Holiday
May 2: Carnival Day (Dutch side)
May 18: Ascension Day
May 28: Abolition Day
May 28: Whit Sunday
July 1: Emancipation Day
July 14: Bastille Day (French side)
October 10: Constitution Day (Dutch side)
November 11: St. Maarten Day
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Boxing Day
All visitors require a valid passport, and certain countries may also require a visa. European, US, and Canadian visitors require a valid passport and a return or continuing ticket.
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
French side: Emergency 112 SAMU (ambulance) 15
Gendarmes 17
Firefighters 18 or 911
Police (Marigot) 0590-87-88-33
Police (Grand Case) 0590-87-19-76
Firefighters (La Savane) 0590-52-30-40
Firefighters (Grand Case) 0590-87-95-01
Gendarmerie (Marigot) 0590-52-21-90 Gendarmerie (La Savane) 0590-52-30-00
Gendarmerie (Quartier d’Orléans) 0590-52-35-95
Sea Rescue 0590-29-20-46 Hospital 0590-52-25-25 Emergencies 0590-52-25-52
Dutch side: Emergency 911 Ambulance 912 or 542-2111
Get all the latest visitor information and view the digital edition of this guide at www.visitstmaarten.com.
St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation is a nonprofit organization that caters to assisting animals in Emergencies, Sterilizations, Adoptions, Transport, Aid, Consultation and Mange Treatments.
SXM AWR has sterilized over 14,794 animals, assisted with the adoption of over 3,363 animals and visited over 18,356 homes. Since 2016 over 947 mange cases have been treated.
SXM AWF also encourages interested residents to contact them for help with spaying/neutering in an effort to reduce the amount of unwanted puppies and kittens in St. Maarten. Supporting the Foundation is possible by purchasing a T-Shirt, merchandise or branded items at the “Mutt Hutt” shop located in the parking lot of “Dock Maarten”, next to Chesterfields in Point Blanche.
Online USA Tax Deductible donations can be Made through our US organization, TEAM GOLDENDOG Inc., by using the QR code.
Police 911 or 542-2222
Firefighters 919 or 542-6001
Coast Guard 913 or 545-5075
Hospital 910 or 543-1111
Collective Prevention Services (CPS) 914 Mental Health Foundation 311 or +1-721-542-1677
St. Maarten/St. Martin is a melting pot with over 100 different nationalities. On the French side, French is spoken in government departments and schools. On the Dutch side, Dutch is used in government departments and some schools; but English is widely spoken everywhere. Spanish, Creole, and Papiamento are also widely spoken on both sides.
Both sides have a variety of nature parks, protected beaches, and waters. Environmental protection and the development of commercial activities work together; dive clubs and tour companies offer excursions in the protected waters of the Réserve Naturelle (French side). All partners are committed to respecting the environment, defending environmental regulations, and educating about all the natural heritage sites. Some of these protected sites are The Tiki Hut and Seaside Nature Park, Pinel Island, Tintamarre, Orient Bay, and Creole Rock. Sea turtles are protected animals on the island, and the St. Maarten Nature Foundation Sea Turtle Watch Group has initiatives for their conservation. Both governments may forbid certain activities in certain areas (such as hiking, motorized transportation, and anchorage).
You may bring pets to the island, but first consult your hotel or host to ensure your pet is welcome. Animals are temporarily admitted with a health certificate dated no more than 10 days before visit and a record of inoculations, including a rabies shot administered no more than 30 days before travel. On the French side, small dogs on a leash are welcome in most places but are not allowed on beaches.
Approximately 43,000 people live on St. Maarten
and 39,000 on St. Martin, for a combined total of 82,000.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is a peaceful mix of Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Baptist, Anglican, Methodist, Jehovah’s Witness, Seventh-day Adventist, Rastafarian, and Hindu communities. Due to widespread immigration and the multiethnic culture of the island, many religious communities coexist side by side. Religion plays an important role in daily life, so it’s important to respect everyone.
Travelers are always advised to take safety precautions. It is discouraged to walk alone in quiet or deserted streets, especially at night. Only marked taxis booked through a reputable service should be used. Valuables should be locked in your hotel’s safe. Do not leave handbags or other valuables unattended in cars or on beaches. Although all 37 beaches are public, keep in mind there are no lifeguards present. It is ideal to use credit cards and not carry large amounts of cash.
St. Maarten Tourist Office (Dutch side) +1-721-542-2337
St. Martin Tourist Office (French side) +590-590-87-57-21 or +590-690-37-79-50 www.stmartinisland.org and www.st-martin.org
Government information service (Dutch side) +1-721-542-4119
St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) (Dutch side) +1-721-542-0108
St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) (Dutch side) +1-721-586-1514
St. Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA) (Dutch side) +1-721-522-7841
Indian Merchants Association (IMA) (Dutch side) +1-721-522-9070
Chamber of Commerce (Dutch side) +1-721-542-3595
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (French side) +590-590-27-91-51
Rotary Club (Dutch side) +1-721-526-3211 or 721-587-4193 or 721-520-3231
Lions Club (Dutch side) +1-721-542-4925 or 721-520-1053
Weather forecast (Dutch side) +1-721-545-4226
By renting a car, you can easily explore the island. Drive through mountain areas and lush tropical forests. It is easy to find your own favorite spot in the sun with a rental car.
To rent a car, you must be at least 18 years old and have held your driver’s license for at least one year. Seatbelts and child seats are mandatory. Payment must be done with a major credit card.
Town and city: 50 kmh (30 mph)
Drive on the right side of the road. Talking on cell phones and drinking are prohibited while driving. Drivers must always wear their seatbelts while driving.
There are stations throughout both sides of the island, and some are open 24 hours.
PARKING
Parking is normally easy to find, and most hotels and resorts offer secure parking.
Traffic already on the roundabout has the right of way.
Alcohol testing, especially on the French side, is very strict.
TAXIS
Taxi (Dutch side): Airport Taxi Association +1-721-542-1680/81
St. Maarten Taxi Association ..... +1-721-543-7814/15
Taxi (French side): St. Martin United Taxi Association +590-690-88-88-09
Taxis Yacht Club +590-590-87-26-07
Action Taxi Service & Tour +590-690-74-25-73
Minibuses cover most areas of the island. Although there is no fixed schedule, there are dedicated bus stops. Simply wait on the side of the road or at a bus stop and raise your hand to alert the driver when a minibus arrives. Buses generally accept euros and US dollars.
FERRIES
Depart from both the Dutch and the French side:
To Anguilla: Anguilla Link: +1-264-497-2231/3290
Calypso Charters: +1-264-584-8504
Cheers: +1-264-235-6205
Funtime: +1-264-497-6812 +1-264-497-6511 +1-264-235-8106 +1-264-235-7022
Gotcha: +1-264-497-2956
M.V. Shauna VI: +1-264-476-6275/6534
To Pinel Island: Departure from French Cul de Sac pier (US$10 round trip)
To St. Barths: St. Maarten: +1-721-542-0032
St. Martin: +590-690-71-83-01
To Saba: St. Maarten: +1-721-544-2640
Arrindell Aviation: +1-721-546-7847
Signature Flights: +1-721-546-7842
Halley Aviation: +1-721-546-7669
Winair: +1-721-545-4237
Princess Juliana International Airport: +1-721-546-7542
St. Maarten/St. Martin does not have a freshwater source; tap water comes exclusively from the desalination plant. Water has become very expensive and should be used sparingly for the sake of the environment. Spring and mineral water are available for purchase everywhere.
St. Maarten/St. Martin wedding planners, as well as many resorts, offer unique venues on the island for weddings. From the welcome party to the farewell bash, a wedding in St. Maarten/St. Martin is unforgettable. The island has no seasonal limitations and offers a large choice of activities for the entire wedding party. Certain (authorized, and in some cases translated) documents are required. The most up-to-date information is available at the St. Maarten Census Office ( www.sintmaartengov.org , tel: +1 721-542-0349) and of course with wedding planners like Sint Maarten Marry-Me (www.sintmaartenmarry-me.com , tel: +1 721-542-7140 or +1 954-889-6135/34) and Sint Maarten Weddings ( www.sintmaartenweddings.com , tel: +1 554-3389 or +1 954-903-0661).
AQUA MANIA ADVENTURES, pg. 49
Simpson Bay Resort & Divi Little Bay
Tel: +1 721-544-2640 | +1 721-544-2631 www.stmaarten-activities.com
Make your St. Maarten vacation memories with Aqua Mania Adventures. Plan unforgettable trips to Saba and St. Barths on the high-speed ferry Edge; climb aboard the Lambada, Tango, and Mambo No. 5 day-sail catamarans for snorkeling and beaching in Anguilla; scuba dive with our team at Dive Adventures; or simply plan on enjoying the best seat for a sunset green flash on our evening sails. Every day is a new adventure!
DIVE SINT MAARTEN, pg. 53
Bobby’s Marina, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-587-3483 Email: info@divesintmaarten.com www.divesintmaarten.com
Explore the island’s unique dive sites. Dive Sint Maarten is a professional dive center offering a comprehensive range of services, including fun dives and PADI dive courses and tours. With the highest quality of professional dive gear, equipment, and comfortable boats, highly experienced staff offer services in multiple languages to a high degree of customer service and professionalism but, above else, deliver friendly, personalized experiences.
ST. MAARTEN HEINEKEN REGATTA, pg. 55 March 2–5, 2023
The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta www.heinekenregatta.com
St. Maarten is a major hub in the Caribbean and one of the most easily accessible islands In the Caribbean. Direct nonstop flights are available from the United States, Canada, and Europe with connecting flights facilitating one-stop service from virtually anywhere in the world. Add crystal-clear waters and cooling northeast trade winds and it becomes clear why some of the world’s most seasoned sailors, hailing from over 35 countries, come for four days of world-class racing just off the coast of St. Maarten. This regatta is for everyone, including professional teams, Corinthian racers, chartering classes, and live-aboard families cruising the Caribbean. With Heineken as title sponsor, the racing days blend seamlessly into four nights of entertainment. Enjoy life in the Caribbean and serious fun!
DUTCH BLONDE EXPERIENCES, pg. 67, 105
CARIBBEAN BREWING COMPANY #3 Goldfinch Road, Point Blanche Tel: +1 721-543-3314
Email: info@dutchblondeexperiences.com
Facebook: Caribbean Brewing Company www.dutchblondeexperiences.com
This funky brewery is producing different craft beers made fresh with the finest malts, hops, and natural ingredients. Join the unique brewery tour that follows the entire beer-making process, from milling the ingredients and brewing the beers to bottling them with state-ofthe-art technology. To top it off, taste the island beers in their taproom.
LUCKY STABLES, pg. 41
Seaside Nature Park, Cay Bay Tel: +1 721-544-5255 | +1 721-554-9767
Email: bookings@seasidenaturepark.com www.seasidenaturepark.com
Open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lucky Stables at Seaside Nature Park offers horseback riding tours with no riding experience needed. Daily one-hour tours include a dip with your horse in the sea, or you can try the Sunset Champagne Ride — a two-hour trail ride that includes a bonfire, marshmallows, and Champagne, as well as a ride into the sea at sunset. Also located at Seaside Nature Park are miniature farm animals, a small playground, and pony rides for the little ones. Packages offered include therapeutic horseback riding, birthday
parties, team building, and activities for other special events. Horseback riding lessons for any experience level are available as well.
MULLET BAY GOLF COURSE, pg. 69
Tel: +1 721-545-2580 | +1 721-545-3069
St. Maarten offers an 18-hole, par-70, Joseph Lee–designed golf course. The once-famed Mullet Bay Beach Resort is no more, but the golf course is still here and offers a great challenge to the avid golfer. Ask your activities desk to get you set up with a round. For golf accessories, including golf club rentals, call the golf shop.
RAINFOREST ADVENTURES ST. MAARTEN, pg. 63
Rockland Estate, Dutch Cul de Sac Tel: +1 721-543-1135
Email: reservations.sxm@rainforestadventure.com www.rainforestadventuresxm.com Zip, slide, fly! The best 360-degree views on the island are from Sentry Hill. We are home to the steepest zip line in the world, The Flying Dutchman. There’s everything, from zipping from mountaintop to mountaintop to conquering the most anticipated attraction and sliding down the mountainside. At Rainforest Adventures, there’s an adventure for everyone. Real nature, real fun!
THE RUSTY PARROT, pg. 43
Sint Maarten Pirate Experience Tel: +1 721-553-8590 Email: Ahoy@therustyparrot.com www.therustyparrot.com
The Rusty Parrot is a building that looks like a pirate ship and is fun for all. Inside, you will find a unique attraction: The Sint Maarten Pirate Experience, a special-effects show about the real pirates of the Caribbean. On the top deck there’s the Tavern, a restaurant with an amazing 360-degree view of Philipsburg and lots of games for the family. Don’t forget to try the homemade rum when you go through the gift shop. Ahoy!
SOLID ATV SCOOTER RENTAL, pg. 69 2 Goldfinch Road, Point Blanche Tel: +1 721-542-4407 WhatsApp: +1 721-587-5291 Email: chintehou@gmail.com www.solidatvtour.com
Solid ATV Scooter Rental offers rentals and guided-tour options. Discover the island and its stunning views with this great outdoor adventure. The company has been servicing the cruise line industry since 2009 and currently has an inventory of more than 60 well-maintained and fully insured ATVs. Customized tours are available for special events and occasions with prior notice.
SXM BEER, pg. 65 Jobco Building # 5 Locas Tree Drive, Cole Bay (Behind PDG Restaurant Supplies) Tel/WhatsApp: +1 721-527-6186 www.sxmbeer.com
SXM Beer is the largest brewery on the island, located in Cole Bay near the hotel and restaurant areas. The brewery is open to the public for tasting and tours. Please call or text to schedule tours, or for more information. We hope to see you soon.
TOPPER’S RHUM DISTILLERY TOURS, pg. 66 60 Welfare Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-520-0008 | +1-803-767-4300 www.toppersrhumtours.com
Topper’s Rhum, the international award-winning official rum of St. Maarten, is in an iconic waterfront building that houses a distillery, restaurant, bar, and gelateria. During a hands-on tour, guests enjoy more than 20 samples of rum, rum cakes, rum-infused Italian gelato, and waffle cones and get to cook and taste food prepared with Topper’s Rhum. Learn the history of rum and get a behind-the-scenes look at how Topper’s ferments, distills, blends, ages, and expertly bottles its handcrafted
rums. Guests will find unique St. Maarten gifts, apparel, and rum for purchase. Experience this extraordinary, fun, and unforgettable destination!
TRI-SPORT, pg. 68
14B Airport Blvd., Simpson Bay
Tel: +1 721-545-4384 | +1 721-587-1234
Email: tours@trisportsxm.com www.trisportsxm.com
Facebook: @TriSportSXMTours
181 Rue de Hollande, Marigot Tel: +590 590-870891
Facebook: @Tri-SportMarigot
Let us show you our island like no one else can with bicycle tours and rentals, including electric bikes, kayak tours and rentals, SUP rentals, hiking tours, and the popular “Adventure St. Maarten — The RACE” tour. Visit our retail stores for all your bicycle and triathlon needs, as well as great souvenir T-shirts and jerseys. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
THE ART BOX GALLERY, pg. 142
Welfare Road 89a, Cole Bay
Tel: +1 721-588-5999
Email: tabgallerysxm@gmail.com
Facebook: The Art Box Gallery SXM
The Art Box Gallery is committed to supporting artists and artisans from the region and the globe. From museum-quality arts to collectibles and small gifts, the pieces are unique, exclusive, sustainable, and ethically sourced. Owner Zdenka also features an original in-housemade precious stones jewelry collection. Telling the story behind each item is our passion. Visit us!
SIR ROLAND RICHARDSON, pg. 143
Belmond La Samanna, Baie Longue L’Auberge Gourmande, Grand Case Tel/WhatsApp: +1 239-296-0339
www.rolandrichardson.com
Acclaimed for his sensitive plein air paintings and iconic symbols of his native St. Martin, Sir Roland Richardson is proud to present his new season’s exhibitions at Belmond La Samanna Hotel on beautiful Baie Longue and L’Auberge Gourmande Restaurant in historic Grand Case. Discover island treasures through this extensive portfolio of Sir Roland’s artworks.
CASINO ROYALE, pg. 139 (across from Sonesta Maho Beach Resort) Rhine Road, Maho Village www.playmaho.com
The largest gaming emporium and theater in St. Maarten/ St. Martin, Casino Royale is located in the heart of Maho Village and boasts more than 21,000 square feet of gaming tables and slot machines, a private high-roller area, VIP packages, screenings, free membership in the Players Club, and the most rewarding player’s program in the Caribbean, with free slot-play bonuses, large-value rebates, hotel stays, fine dining, and more. Casino Royale’s Saturday Night Spectacular is free and features guest jugglers and performers renowned in the US and Vegas scene, as well as stunning vocal performances by Sonesta Resorts’ resident singer. 18+ only. See VIP host desk for more info.
THE DAILY HERALD, pg. 169 22 Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-5253 | +1 721-542-5597 www.thedailyherald.sx
The Daily Herald is brought to you by a dedicated and capable staff committed to serving the public with objective and reliable information as the No. 1 source of news about St. Maarten, the surrounding islands, and the world. Both the advertisements and editorial content are prepared with the utmost professionalism, resulting in a great newspaper printed fresh every morning, Monday through Friday.
DOLLAR/THRIFTY CAR RENTAL, pg. 167
102 Airport Road, Simpson Bay
Tel: +1 721-545-2393
US: +1 866-978-0932
Canada: +1 416-628-2863
Email: customerservice@dollarthriftysxm.com www.dollarthriftysxm.com
Dollar/Thrifty Car Rental is regarded as the No. 1 car rental in St. Maarten/St. Martin, with the most beautiful facilities and an amazing selection of vehicle models to suit your every need and desire. Conveniently located near and at the airport, Dollar/Thrifty Car Rental is committed to providing great service and secure and reliable rentals at value rates.
EUROPCAR SXM, Maps #122 Airport Road, Simpson Bay
Tel: +1 721-543-5270 | +590 590-776767
Cell: +1 721-587-5270 | +596 696-375270 Assistance 24/7: 93 77
Email: Booking.Juliabam@gbh.fr
Facebook: europcarsxm
Instagram: europocar_sxm/ www.europcar-sxm.com/en
EUROPCAR is located across from Princess Juliana International Airport. A free shuttle service is provided to reach our new, fully equipped main office. You will be able to choose the car that fits with your needs from our new fleet, with a wide variety of vehicles. Our team will be pleased to welcome you and offer the best service on the island. Call us and use the code STMAARTENMAPS23 to get a 10 percent discount.
ISLAND 92, pg. 171
Tel: +1 721-544-3377 US: +1 786-693-9200 www.island92.com
Celebrating 20 years, Island 92 is the premiere “Rock, Blues, and Good Time Music Station” on the island. The station broadcasts live across the northeast Caribbean and online to 97 countries worldwide, and remains a link between the busy world out there and the laid-back, dreamy vacation land for expats who prefer flip-flops and Hawaiian shirts to wing tips. Check us out online or tune in to 91.9 FM.
RTGH PHOTOGRAPHY, pg. 173 Email: info@rtghphotography.com www.rtghphotography.com
Capture your memories in a flash with RTGH Photography. We provide detailed, professional, high-quality photo services, including family portraits, weddings and events, aviation, and much more.
ST. MAARTEN ANIMAL WELFARE FOUNDATION, pg. 170
Tel: +1 721-520-8887
Facebook: @St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation
Celebrating 30 years, the St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation is dedicated to assisting animals in emergencies, with sterilizations, adoptions, transportation, consultations, and mange treatments. Interested residents can contact the foundation for help with spaying/ neutering in an effort to reduce unwanted puppies and kittens. Support the foundation by purchasing a T-shirt or other branded items at the Mutt Hutt shop located at Dock Maarten, next to Chesterfields Restaurant in Point Blanche. Online US tax-deductible donations can be made through its US organization, TEAM GOLDENDOG Inc., by using the QR code.
THE STATIONS OF PHILIPSBURG BROADCASTING, pg. 169 Tel: +1 721-543-2200
Email: marketing@philbroad.com www.laser101.fm / www.oasis963.fm / www.tropixx.fm
The Stations of Philipsburg Broadcasting offer a listening choice for everyone with LASER 101.1 Top 40 Hit Radio; OASIS 96.3, the softer side of St. Maarten, Oldies and Easy Listening; TROPIXX 105.5, St. Maarten’s only all-Caribbean
music station, with music from Cuba to Aruba; MIX 94.7, no talk, more music, and adult contemporary; and INSPIRE 106.3 gospel and inspirational music.
SXM TALKS, pg. 171 www.sxm-talks.com
Bringing the major local news from newspapers and blogs from St. Maarten/St. Martin, SXM Talks is a news distribution platform where users can easily obtain all major local news, express their opinions, and join in (anonymously) on discussions. Download the app or visit the website and stay involved in the matters that matter.
LA SAMANNA, A BELMOND HOTEL, ST. MARTIN, pg. 165
Baie Longue, Terres Basses, St. Martin Tel: +590 590-876400
Reservations: +1 800-957-6128
Email: reservation.las@belmond.com www.belmond.com/lasamanna
Experience the ultimate St. Martin luxury resort. It’s a place where dazzling white buildings pop against an azure sky and a platinum stretch of private beach is dotted with cabanas. Sink into a chic suite designed to reflect the hypnotic shapes and colors of sea life. Then dress to impress and sample world-class restaurants before diving into the island’s vibrant social scene. Staying at La Samanna turns a trip to St. Martin into an unforgettably unique escape.
LA VISTA RESORT, pg. 164 53 Billy Folly Road, Pelican Key Estate Tel: +1 721-544-3005
Email: info@lavistaresort.com www.lavistaresort.com
La Vista Resort is a small, enchanting family-owned and -operated resort. With a tasteful combination of traditional Caribbean charm and European flavor, the result is spectacular. The fully equipped luxurious accommodations have panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. La Vista Resort epitomizes the ideal “home away from home.” The personal touch, one-on-one contact with staff and management, and the feeling of being part of an extended family are La Vista Resort’s key elements to a perfect vacation environment.
THE MORGAN RESORT & SPA, pg. 128 Beacon Hill Road 2, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-4000
Email: lyang@themorganresort.com www.themorganresort.com
St. Maarten’s newest hotel is The Morgan Resort & Spa, a 124-room luxury boutique resort featuring striking contemporary architecture and a rooftop observation deck, famous for watching those jet landings at nearby Princess Juliana International Airport. Most rooms and suites offer ocean views. The resort features a fullservice spa and salon and fitness center. It’s known for its expansive beach-style swimming pool, surrounded by palm trees, luxury cabanas, and swim-up bar with a blackjack table. There’s a waterslide, grotto, and underwater music system, too.
VIE L’VEN, pg. 21
Indigo Bay
Email: info@vielven.com
Arriving soon to the shores of Indigo Bay in St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven Luxury Hotel and Residences begins with a lush coastal landscape and pristine sandy beaches with crystal-blue waters and panoramic views. A haven of pure luxury is waiting for you to call it home.
INDIGO GREEN, pg. 159
Tel: +1 721-543-7999
US: +1 855-545-7999
www.indigogreen.sx
Located on the Dutch side in the Indigo Bay gated community, Indigo Green is the leading example of a high-end oceanfront community of modern, qualitybuilt villas and condos. Indigo Green incorporates the latest designs for elegant living in a year-round Caribbean lifestyle, with “Lock It and Leave It” benefits. Indigo Green is a unique residential resort in a spectacular location.
JENNIFER’S VACATION VILLAS, pg. 155
Plaza del Lago, Simpson Bay Yacht Club
Tel: +1 721-544-3107 |
US: +1 631-546-7345
Email: reservations@jennifersvacationvillas.com www.jennifersvacationvillas.com
Jennifer’s Vacation Villas can help you choose your perfect location, with the finest selection in exclusive private villa rentals, from casual to luxurious, and beachfront or hillside locations on the Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten/St. Martin. We specialize in sales, vacation rentals, long-term rentals, property management, and wedding and event planning.
INTERNATIONAL REALTY, pg. 161
1 Niger Road, Lowlands, St. Maarten
Tel: +1 721-545-3626 | +1 213-805-0840
Email: contact@stmartinsothebysrealty.com Facebook: stmartinsothebysrealty Instagram: SXMSIR www.stmartinsir.com
St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty offers a wide array of fine properties for the most discerning travelers — from one-bedroom condominiums to a ninebedroom beachfront estate. Our weekly rentals include full concierge service and airport pickup for a luxurious island vacation. Are you looking for a vacation home or an investment property? Our sales department has in-depth knowledge of both sides of the island, and our listings include some of the most prestigious properties in both St. Martin and St. Maarten.
SUNSHINE PROPERTIES, pg. 163
Welfare Road 93, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-544-4498 Toll-free: +1 866-978-7040
Email: info@sunshine-properties.com Facebook: SunshineProperties Instagram: sunshineproperties Twitter: realestatesxm www.sunshine-properties.com
Established in 1995, this boutique family-owned company with a wealth of knowledge and expert staff offers a large and diverse portfolio of luxury villas, beachfront homes and apartments, as well as a variety of properties with sea views that include land and investment properties islandwide. Uniquely placed to offer valuable insider advice on local tax incentives as well as recommend and provision architectural and construction facilities, Sunshine Properties is your one stop for all your real estate needs.
VIE L’VEN, pg. 21
Indigo Bay Email: info@vielven.com Arriving soon to the shores of Indigo Bay in St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven Luxury Hotel and Residences begins with a lush coastal landscape and pristine sandy beaches with crystal-blue waters and panoramic views. A haven of pure luxury waiting for you to call it home.
3 AMIGOS, pg. 130
Rhine Road, Maho Village, Maho (across from Casino Royale)
Tel: +1 721-553-7374
Facebook: @3amigosSXM
Enjoy the heartiest of Tex-Mex SXM-style at this awesome location in Maho. Enjoy the best enchiladas stuffed with Caribbean lobster, rotisserie chicken quesadillas, taco platters, pulled pork sandwiches, skirt steak fajitas, and much more. Enjoy watching all your favorite sports any time of the day. And at night, 3 Amigos is the party place to be! Try the bold and flavorful cocktails. Takeout and delivery are available.
AZIANA, pg. 110
22 Juancho Yrausquin Blvd., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-588-0022 | +1 721-542-9688
Email: hello@aziana.sx
Facebook: azianasxm
Instagram: azianabv Building on a renowned St. Maarten family tradition of Asian cuisine excellence, Aziana provides a 21st-century connoisseur haven for lovers of Indonesian and Japanese food — but as its adage “Asian Fusion” tells you, a lot more. Enjoy tasty, guilt-free lunch and dinner options based on eclectic recipes and fresh ingredients. The terrace offers a great view of the Philipsburg Marina. Open Monday through Thursday, noon to 10 p.m.; Friday, noon to 11 p.m.; and Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. Takeout is available.
BALLS & WINE, pg. 123
Paradise Mall, Welfare Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-527-6146 | +1 721-527-6145
Email: balls.wine.sxm@gmail.com
Facebook: @BallsandWine www.ballsandwine.com
This unique, cozy restaurant is a hidden gem, offering a delicious menu to mix and match. You will find a truly exceptional variety of meatballs and sauces, and also shrimp and tuna tacos, Latin-food, ceviche, truffle potatoes, meats, fish, and much, much more. All dishes are a combination of experiences and with an authentic Venezuelan creative touch complemented with an extensive variety of beers, wines, and cocktails.
BEIRUT, pg. 124
29 Airport Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-3612
Email: beirutsxm@hotmail.com
Facebook: beirut.sxm
For a memorable culinary experience, visit Beirut restaurant. The menu has a large choice of authentic Lebanese dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, as well as a wide selection of homemade desserts. Delicious hookah flavors can be enjoyed after dinner or just lounging. Catering and takeout are available.
THE BOON, pg. 121 (at Mary’s Boon)
117 Simpson Bay Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-7000
Facebook: The Boon Beach Bar & Restaurant
The Boon, located at Mary’s Boon, boasts oceanfront views and inside dining as well as beach seating. Umbrellas and chaise lounges are free. Whether you are here for a beach lunch, an elegant dinner, an afternoon of sunbathing, or cocktails and music, The Boon will not disappoint. Breakfast is served from 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. daily.
BUCCANEER BEACH BAR, pg. 125
10 Billy Folly Road
Simpson Bay
Tel: +1 721-523-0401 | 0402
Email: info@buccaneerbeachbar.com
Instagram/Facebook: buccaneerbeachbar www.buccaneerbeachbar.com
Buccaneer Beach Bar, located on Kim Sha Beach, is open daily from 8 a.m. till late. It is the place where vacationers and locals come together to enjoy an open, tiki-style island bar, barbecue, pizza, live lobster, and fresh red snapper straight from the ocean, as well as
live music, fireballs on the beach, and breathtaking sunsets. Parking is available for your boat, dinghy, car, or bike. There’s also free shuttle service. Buccaneer is a true Caribbean beach bar experience!
DA WATERHOLE, pg. 132-133
Mullet Bay Beach
Rhine Road, Mullet Bay Tel: +1 721-520-8244
Email: info@dawaterhole.com Facebook: dawaterholebeachbar
Da Waterhole is a renovated beach bar and restaurant located at St. Maarten’s most beautiful beach, Mullet Bay, steps away from the inviting ocean. With restrooms, showers, lockers, and a changing room, Da Waterhole offers a complete, worry-free beach day and is a fun place for all ages. You can enjoy barbecue, seafood, burgers, and finger foods along with exotic cocktails, frozen daiquiris, soft drinks, and live music every day of the week. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Boutique for souvenirs, ice cream, snorkeling gear, towels, toiletries, and much more.
DOMINO’S PIZZA, pg. 111
34 Bush Road, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-4397
62 Welfare Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-544-5954
PJIA (Pre & Post Security)
Tel: +1 721-546-7722
Order online: www.dominos.sx
Domino’s Pizza is open late every night and offers fast delivery, dine-in, and carryout from its three locations. Order or view the latest specials and menu online. Accepting online payments, Domino’s is a perfect option for a late arrival or after a long day at the beach. We are more than just great pizza. Try our oven-baked sandwiches, pastas, wings, stuffed cheesy bread, and desserts.
DUTCH BLONDE EXPERIENCES, pg. 67
DUTCH BLONDE BEACH BAR, pg. 105 #79 Boardwalk, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-543-3314
WhatsApp: +1 721-524-4956
Email: info@dutchblondeexperiences.com Facebook: craftbeerfromhere www.dutchblondeexperiences.com
At the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, you will always have a good time! Find the best beers (including those from its own brewery), wines, cocktails, and delicious dishes and snacks, including our special Dutch pancakes, poffertjes, and stroopwafels. Don’t miss out on Friday night karaoke. Enjoy exciting real-life adventure games in one of the six escape rooms, or visit wine-pairing events with five thoughtfully selected French wines paired with five Dutch cheeses. Offering the best of both countries, this hot spot has it all!
THE HIDEAWAY AT LA VISTA, pg. 124 53 Billy Folly Road, Pelican Key Estate Tel: +1 721-544-3005
Email: info@lavistaresort.com www.lavistaresort.com
The Hideaway was established in 1987 as a cozy little restaurant/bar perched beside an overflowing pool that ran over onto a spectacular view. The international cuisine is exquisitely presented and reasonably priced, with generous portions. This tranquil nook is the perfect setting for breakfasts, long lunches, and candlelit dinners.
INFINITY RESTAURANT, pg. 134-135
At Oyster Bay Beach Resort 10 Emerald Merit Road, Oyster Pond Tel: +1 721-543-6040
Infinity Restaurant is St. Maarten’s favorite destination for international cuisine crafted by some of the island’s best chefs. There’s indoor and outdoor oceanfront
dining, succulent dishes, including island delicacies, and traditional favorites. The Sunday Brunch Buffet (11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.) is a must for residents and visitors alike at Infinity Restaurant at Oyster Bay Beach Resort. Call for reservations.
JAI’S CONTEMPORARY FUSION CUISINE, pg. 119 Welfare Road 68, Plaza del Lago, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-526-3742
Email: info@jaissxmresto.com Instagram: @jaisrestosxm www.jaiscontemporaryfusioncuisine.com
Jai’s Contemporary Fusion Cuisine is a modern fusion restaurant, bringing Caribbean and Indian flavors to diners’ palates. By combining flavors from his heritage with his years of experience, Jai aims to redefine the dining scene on the island. It’s also open for lunch from Wednesday to Friday.
JAX STEAKHOUSE & COCKTAIL BAR, pg. 129 1 Rhine Road, Maho Village, Maho (across from Casino Royale)
Tel: +1 721-588-8884
Email: hello@jaxsxm.com Facebook: @JAXSXM www.jaxsxm.com
Experience a simple and unwavering commitment to great food, service, and a perfectly cooked steak. Consistently rated top three restaurants on island and the best steak house in St. Maarten/St. Martin and recently rated in the top five fine-dining restaurants in the Caribbean in 2022 by Tripadvisor. JAX serves prime grade steaks and fresh seafood seven days a week. JAX serves Certified Angus. Reserve online at www.jaxsxm.com.
KARAKTER BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT, pg. 116-117 121 Simpson Bay Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-523-9983
Email: info@karakterbeach.com Facebook: @karakter.sxm
Karakter is your favorite beach bar and restaurant, with complimentary beach chairs for guests. Karakter’s menu offers a variety of tasteful dishes for lunch and dinner. It’s on the mile-long Simpson Bay Beach, halfway down the runway. Follow the blue and yellow road signs. It’s open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.
LEE’S ROADSIDE GRILL & BAR, pg. 120 (across from the Atrium Resort in Pelican) Tel: +1 721-544-4233 or cell: +1 721-586-6979 email: leesfish@caribserve.net
Lee’s Roadside Grill is back with a brand-new location across from the Atrium Resort in Pelican. If you’re planning a trip to St. Maarten, Lee’s Roadside Grill is where you can find some authentic Caribbean cuisine. We serve everything from mouthwatering grilled lobster and fresh fish to barbecue ribs and chicken, all cooked on a charcoal grill, giving the food that great flavor that keeps you coming back. Our local fishermen keep us fully supplied with the best snappers, mahi-mahi, grouper, wahoo, tuna, and, of course, lobster. Open Tuesdays to Sundays for lunch and dinner from noon till... Closed Mondays. Don’t forget Happy Hour from 2 to 7 p.m. daily and live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and cash accepted.
MANDARIN, pg. 127
At Princess Port de Plaisance 155 Union Road, Cole Bay (next to Princess Casino)
Tel: +1 721-522-9159 www.mandarinsxm.com
Here’s everything for your Asian craving, from sushi to stir-fries from the wok. Mandarin features a full-fledged pan-Asian menu, including Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and the not-to-be-missed ramen bowls. With an option of air-conditioned or outside seating, this restaurant is sure to satisfy every palate.
MÉLANGE GRILLE ST. MAARTEN, BC Dining Guide
At Princess Port de Plaisance
155 Union Road, Cole Bay (next to Princess Casino)
Tel: +1 721-526-4049
Email: reservation@melangesxm.com www.melangesxm.com
Discover a must-visit restaurant in St. Maarten offering dining options such as Hibachi and Tabletop Barbecue Grill in the middle of every table. There’s also an a la carte menu featuring steaks, fish, and seafood. There are also vegan and gluten-free menu options.
OCEAN LOUNGE AT HOLLAND HOUSE
BEACH HOTEL, pg. 109
45 Front Street, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-2572 www.hhbh.com
Overlooking Great Bay, the Ocean Lounge serves awardwinning food that is a blend of European and Caribbean flavors. Chef Wendell Laurence uses the freshest ingredients available on the island to create eclectic and modern dishes. The Ocean Lounge’s wine list, awarded a Wine Spectator Award, promises a great matching wine to accompany your lunch or dinner.
RENDEZ-VOUS LOUNGE, pg. 131
At Porto Cupecoy
66 Rhine Road, Cupecoy
Tel: + 1 721-545-3070
Email: natsxm181128@gmail.com
Facebook: @rendez.vouslounge.9 www.rdvlounge.com
Featuring terrace-style dining in a Mediterranean village, Rendez-Vous Lounge at Porto Cupecoy serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. For a special treat, stop by for gelato or French pastries. Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Happy Hour is every day from 5 to 7 p.m. Jazz Lunch every Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
SALE & PEPE, pg. 115
Airport Road 40 Marina, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-0021
WhatsApp: +1 721-527-5019
Open Monday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 4 to 11 p.m.
Facebook: @saleandpepemarina www.salepepesxm.com
From its beautiful marina location, this family-style Italian restaurant offers the best authentic Sicilian food. Owner Chef Davide makes his dishes with fresh fish and a variety of other seafood mixed with imported Sicilian products and fresh Caribbean ingredients. Enjoy great Sicilian wines from the Etna Mountain of Catania that are not available in stores. Don’t miss out on the Sale & Pepe gastronomic experience from the family restaurant to your family table. Gluten-free and vegetarian dishes are available. Also visit the new Sicilian Pizza Cocktail & Tapas Bar, Don Pizza, located at The Hills in Simpson Bay.
SALT AT THE MORGAN RESORT & SPA, pg. 128
Beacon Hill Road 2, Simpson Bay
Tel: +1 721-545-4000
Email: lyang@themorganresort.com www.themorganresort.com
St. Maarten’s newest hotel is The Morgan Resort & Spa, a 124-room luxury boutique resort that is home to the SALT Restaurant + Bar, which is helmed by Executive Chef David Seeman, who serves up French Caribbean cuisine. The all-day dining venue also offers craft cocktails and rum flights.
SKIPJACK’S SEAFOOD GRILL, BAR, & FISH MARKET, pg. 119
Welfare Road, Simpson Bay
Tel: +1 721-544-2313
Facebook: Skip Jacks SXM
Located on the lagoon in Simpson Bay, SkipJack’s offers
a unique waterfront dining ambience with spectacular views. The restaurant features live Maine and Caribbean lobsters and is known for seafood, which is so fresh it operates its own fish market. Landlubbers should not despair, because SkipJack’s also serves great steaks, ribs, chicken, pastas, salads, and homemade desserts.
SPICES OF INDIA, pg. 131 Maho Plaza #14 Rhine Road, Maho Tel: +1 721-545-5522 WhatsApp: +1 721-553-4449 Email: spicesofindia.sxm@gmail.com
Facebook: Spices of India SXM Instagram: spicesofindiastmaarten www.spicesofindiasxm.com
Spices of India brings an authentic taste of India to St. Maarten and the Caribbean. Enjoy Indian recipes using natural herbs and spices that are packed with flavor in every serving. Dishes combine the ancient with the modern. Lose yourself in the exotic flavors!
TOPPER’S RESTAURANT & BAR, pg. 124 60 Welfare Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3500 | +1 721-520-6760 www.sxmtoppers.com
Topper’s Restaurant & Bar, voted No. 1 international restaurant, is set in a gorgeous landmark waterfront location. This famed eatery has been serving guests for more than 15 years. The renowned owner is always present to make sure guests have a great time. The vast menu focuses on locally caught lobster, comfort food, fresh salads, pasta, and Certified Angus Beef® cuts cooked to perfection. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy daily happy-hour specials and a Thursday night Broadway dance show. The bar is a local hangout well known for nightly karaoke, where guests stay to sing and dance the night away. Enjoy this unique destination!
VERANDA MARKET AND BISTRO, pg. 134-135
At Oyster Bay Beach Resort 10 Emerald Merit Road, Oyster Pond Tel: +1 721-543-6040
Veranda Market and Bistro is a chic, spacious market with an irresistible bistro and outdoor bar that features incredible views of the ocean, Dawn Beach, and dramatic sunsets. Offering lighter fare, beer, wine, and spirits served inside and on the expansive oceanfront deck, the Veranda welcomes you.
ZEE BEST, pg. 122
Simpson Bay Yacht Club, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-544-2477 | +1 721-522-1030 www.zeebestrestaurant.com
Established in 1983, Zee Best is a household name for vacationers and residents, serving freshly made French patisseries, coffee, tea, juices, delicious crepes, and everything you could imagine made with eggs. Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Zee Best Bakeshop on Airport Road serves pastries, sandwiches, brownies, muffins, smoothies, lattes, and more. Zee Best is “zee” best place for breakfast and lunch.
AMASTERDAM, 82, 83, 84-85, Calendar 24 Front Street, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-6935
WhatsApp: +1 721-581-2222
Email: gold@sintmaarten.net
Facebook/Instagram: @amasterdam.sxm
Don’t miss the “Delightfully Dutch” experience at AMAsterdam! It’s the only bar that serves real diamonds along with cold beers, wines, and cocktails. The shop offers a vast selection of jewelry, watches, Dutch cheeses, chocolates, Delft Blue porcelain, T-shirts, souvenirs, alcohol, cigarettes, Cuban cigars, and much more. AMAsterdam is a must-visit when you are in St. Maarten. Free shopping
tour available from your resort. Call, WhatsApp, or email for pickup days and times.
AMSTERDAM CHEESE & LIQUOR STORE, pg. 88-89
26 Juancho Yrausquin Blvd., Philipsburg (next to Chesterfields Restaurant, on the way to the cruise ship terminal) 119A Welfare Road, Cole Bay (next to the Kim Sha Beach parking lot, before Simpson Bay Bridge)
Tel: +1 721-520-1944
Email: acssxm@gmail.com Facebook: @ACSSXM2
This is the only “official” Dutch store on the island with a large variety of Dutch cheeses, pastries, souvenirs, and gifts. Reserve cheese and wine tastings daily.
ARIANNA’S BOUTIQUE, pg. 97
#5 Maho Plaza, Rhine Road, Maho Tel: +1 721-545-6900 | 526-6997 556-4605
Email: shopping-ariannas@outlook.com Facebook: @Ariannas-Boutique
Arianna’s Boutique offers elegant, affordable fashions for the discerning shopper. Feel free to browse for the latest styles in island and cruise wear coupled with tasteful accessories to enhance any outfit.
ART OF TIME, Inside Front Cover, pg. 1, Back Cover 26 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-2180
US: +1 234-542-8838
Facebook: @Artistic.ArtofTime www.artoftimejewelers.com
Art of Time is centrally located on Front Street. Prestigious designers and brands of international renown are symbols of excellence in watchmaking and jewelry. You will find luxury watches, including Omega, David Yurman, Panerai, Chanel, IWC Schaffhausen, Oris, Grand Seiko, Chopard, Breitling, Montblanc, Movado, Gucci, Hamilton, Rado, Tissot, and Longines. The jewelry collection includes David Yurman, Roberto Coin, John Hardy, Chopard, Mikimoto, Marco Bicego, Pomellato, and Gucci, as well as accessories from Montblanc.
BALLERINA JEWELERS, pg. 4-5, 6-7, 8, 9, 22, 23, 24, 87, Calendar
Exquisite Jewelry and Fine Timepieces 56 Front Street, Philipsburg 6 Harbour Point Village, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4399
Email: infosxm@ballerina-jewelers.com www.ballerina-jewelers.com
Celebrating 35 years of milestones, from engagements to weddings, anniversaries, and more, Ballerina Jewelers and sister stores are known as the “Favorite Jeweler in the Caribbean.” Top watchmakers and jewelers include brands such as Roger Dubuis, Franck Muller, Longines, Montblanc, Bell & Ross, Oris, Frédérique Constant, Corum, Tacori, Simon G., FOPE, Baraka, Leo Pizzo, Vahan, and more. Ballerina Jewelers is an icon in the Caribbean where all purchases are guaranteed with certified appraisals and US service centers.
Pandora began designing its charms in the 2000s. Each charm has a meaning, sometimes many meanings, for the person who wears it. Whether it’s a celebration of color or pattern or a tribute to a country, occasion, activity, or a person, each charm is designed to tell the personal story of its wearer while showcasing their unique style. Pandora charms are worn on bracelets and necklaces, created especially to be worn in ways unique to those who wear them.
This is an Italian goldsmith, an international jewelry brand, and a tradition that of innovation since 1929. Its patented 18k gold Flex’it collections have become a trademark of the brand. Every jewel is created in-house, and the FOPE collections have evolved through the decades but have always remained true to the founders’ values: attention to detail, top-notch quality, and unmistakable elegance.
Discover a unique and luxurious brand known for its design, quality, and comfort. Starting from handdrawn sketches, each piece of jewelry is designed and produced in the United States.
This is the only company to make trendsetting designer jewelry with Chocolate Diamonds®, natural color brown diamonds. Le Vian jewelry has become a regular on the Red Carpet, worn by celebrities and style icons around the world. Le Vian is known for its exquisite chocolate diamond collections.
For the woman who embraces each opportunity the day brings, Michele watches offer a bold, yet feminine appeal. Their women’s watches feature handset diamonds, mother-of-pearl dials, and signature Michele touches that create a fabulous watch that she can live in, share, and make her own.
This watch brand, based in Italy, has produced for almost 20 years handcrafted and limited-edition pieces designed by Italo Fontana. Discover unique, tailor-made watches guaranteed by the finest Italian craftsmanship. Each U-BOAT creation is an expression of the values of “Made in Tuscany.”
BOOLCHAND’S, pg. 25, 50 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-2245
Email: boolchand.sxm@boolchand.com www.boolchand.com
You may know Boolchand’s as one of the most enjoyable travel-shopping experiences anywhere. It’s a destination within your destination, where you’ll find the highest-quality cameras, electronics, computers, watches, and jewelry from brands known the world over, including Apple, Bose, Canon, Casio, GoPro, Samsung, and Pandora, to name a few. Family owned and operated for four generations, Boolchand’s provides a retail experience like no other. With Caribbean hospitality and tax- and dutyfree pricing, Boolchand’s aims to help you improve your quality of life through technology.
THE CAPTAIN’S DUTY-FREE SHOP, pg. 29
Captain Hodge Pier on the Boardwalk, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-3999
The Captain’s Duty-Free Shop is the No. 1 location for duty-free items in St. Maarten. Located in the heart of Philipsburg, the store offers a great selection of liquor, tobacco, sunglasses, souvenirs, and much more. The on-the-spot bottle-engraving station turns any bottle into a unique gift or memory.
CARIBBEAN GEMS, pg. 10-11
22 Front Street, Philipsburg 40 Front Street, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-2176
Toll-free: +1 800-848-7925 www.caribbeangems.com
Consistently voted St. Maarten’s No. 1 jewelry store, Caribbean Gems, with two locations on Front Street, has the widest selection of GIA-certified loose diamonds, engagement ring settings, tennis bracelets, fine colored stone jewelry, and so much more at
the most competitive prices possible. You can buy a diamond and watch it set in the in-house workshop. Custom-made jewelry, top-quality service, lifetime upgrades, and service centers in North America make this one of the best stops on the island if you’re shopping for jewelry or watches.
CARREFOUR MARKET, pg. 113
79 Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4400
53 Union Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3118
Porto Cupecoy Rhine Road, Cupecoy Tel: +1 721-545-3162
Jordan Village, Cupecoy Tel: +1 721-545-5259
Email: email@cmsxm.net www.cmsxm.net
Carrefour Market, the largest supermarket chain in St. Maarten, offers its customers the ultimate shopping experience. With four locations, the supermarket is known for its fresh produce, including organic fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, it features a huge assortment of liquors, beverages, cigars and cigarettes, dairy products, a bakery section, cleaning items, and a lot more.
COST.U.LESS, pg. 91 Warehouse Club Store 72 Bush Road Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: + 1-721-542-9860
Facebook @CULStMaarten Instagram @CUL.StMaarten www.CostULess.com
Located less than five miles from Princess Juliana International Airport and minutes from downtown Philipsburg, Cost.U.Less is St. Maarten’s “go to” warehouse retailer, offering a wide variety of fresh grocery and general merchandise products, and a large selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Tourists and visitors are always welcome with free membership. Open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL, pg. 16-17, 19 59 Front Street, Philipsburg Cyrus Wathey Square, Philipsburg Tel: +721-542-7990 www.diamondsinternational.com
Looking for the finest designer jewelry brands? Then make Diamonds International your only stop while on holiday. Celebrated as the Caribbean’s most recommended jeweler, Diamonds International has dominated the region for over a quarter century by offering exquisite Swiss timepieces, luxury-grade tanzanite jewelry, and much more. Its wide inventory of loose diamonds and couture brands keeps shoppers coming back. Exclusive brands like the Crown of Light 90-facet premium diamond enjoyed by sophisticated collectors are available only at Diamonds International. Discover the exquisite Safi Kilima tanzanite jewelry collection and fine timepieces. Watch brands include Breitling, Bremont, Hamilton, Movado, Bulova, and Philip Stein. In jewelry you will also find Forevermark diamonds and John Hardy. With over 130 retail locations, Diamonds International has enormous buying power that translates into tremendous values on every item offered. Ask the experts for a VIP preview of extraordinary diamonds and experience luxury shopping at its best.
ENDLESS SUMMER SWIMWEAR, pg. 59
16-C Front Street, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-1510
3 Travel Inn, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-2618
www.endlesssummerswimwear.com
With over 20 years in business and specialized lines
from Israel, Spain, Germany, the United States, and Canada, Endless Summer boasts a classy, affordable swimwear collection. Catering to men and women of all shapes and sizes, this quaint boutique offers a variety of styles and colors for the buyer to choose from. To complete your look, coverups, beach bags, and other accessories are also available. Endless Summer is your one-stop swim apparel store.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHOP SXM, pg. 78
At Bobby’s Marina
22H Juancho Yrausquin Blvd, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-5880
Email: contact@harleysxm.com www.harleysxm.com
Harley-Davidson is a renowned brand among motorcyclists, with its iconic style and rock ’n’ roll spirit. Whether you’re an enthusiast or simply enjoy the design, this is the place where you can find authentic, high-quality, and custom Harley-Davidson SXM T-shirts. You are welcome to explore its exclusive men’s and women’s apparel, collectibles, and accessories. The store is inside Bobby’s Marina.
INFINITY JEWELERS, pg. 79
Front Street 55, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-542-1944 | +1 262-244-7586
Toll free: +1 888-823-9169
Email: infinity@caribserve.net
Facebook: infinityjewelerssxm www.infinityjeweler.com
At Infinity Jewelers, you will find excellent quality and a phenomenal selection of jewelry. Experience service as customer service should be by a knowledgeable, attentive, and genuine staff who are committed to making sure you leave happy. Offering unique jewelry and watches, Infinity Jewelers is a must-visit.
ISLAND TREASURES JEWELERS, pg. 99
#11 Maho Shopping Plaza, Maho
Email: info@islandjewelrysxm.com Tel: +1 721-588-4382
Facebook: @IslandTreasuresSXM Twitter: @island_sxm Instagram: @islandtreasures.sxm www.islandjewelrysxm.com
This jewelry store is voted No. 1 for family, trust, and loyalty. We specialize in creating unique custommade jewelry and can even melt your old gold into a brand-new design. Our team of design consultants guides you through each step of designing the perfect piece. Get expert advice and guidance on your diamond or gemstone choice and jewelry design. Island Treasures Jewelers offers 100 percent duty-free shopping, has an in-house workshop, and offers a lifetime diamond upgrade policy.
JEWELS & BEYOND, pg. 98, 101, 182, Inside Back Cover 3 Cinnamon Grove, Maho (next to Maho Pharmacy)
Tel: +1 721-545-3078
US: +1 305-508-5949
Email: info@jnjewelers.com www.jnjewelers.com
Looking to have your jewelry repaired, your ring resized, or your diamond reset? Would you like to upgrade your diamond or simply have a watch battery replaced? Jewels & Beyond (formerly Jewels & Linens) has it all! Jewels & Beyond is part of a second-generation family business established in 1987. Along with its sister operation, J.N. Jewelers (8 Cinnamon Grove, Maho, next to Hole In The Wall), these establishments have consistently received fivestar ratings on Tripadvisor, Facebook, and Google. Both locations are within walking distance from the world-famous Princess Juliana International Airport and away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Philipsburg. The experienced, friendly sales team with a trademark sense of humor will assist you in
the purchase of loose diamonds, branded watches, diamond jewelry, 18k-gold jewelry, sterling silver, and fine jewelry with natural yellow canary diamonds, blue diamonds, opals, dancing diamonds, and more. Designed for one-stop shopping, Jewels & Beyond also has a wide selection of souvenirs, local rums, international liquors, Cuban cigars, cigarettes, beach goods, and sunglasses. Jewels & Beyond offers free, easy parking and is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day.
INTERNATIONAL, pg. 2-3, 12-13, 15
Front Street 40, 60, and 66, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-543-7020 Toll-free: +1 866-313-2123 Email: sales@joesjewelry.com www.joesjewelry.com
While you explore our beautiful island of St. Maarten, visit Joe’s Jewelry International for a luxury jewelry shopping experience and gifts for your loved ones. Joe’s Jewelry offers the highest-quality designer pieces, fine jewelry, Swiss timepieces, and certified loose diamonds, as well as other rare, exotic precious gems — all at duty-free prices. Joe’s carries fine brands, such as De Beers, Gucci, Rado, Mémoire, Bulova, Movado, Tissot, Michele, Frédérique Constant, and Baume & Mercier. There are also fashion brands, such as Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and Swatch. Joe’s Jewelry International is ranked No. 1 on Tripadvisor, with 2,000+ five-star reviews. Joe’s Jewelry is your destination for luxury shopping in the Caribbean.
MAHO PHARMACY, pg. 98
14 Maho Plaza
Rhine Road, Maho Village
Tel: +1 721-545-3200 WhatsApp: +1 721-526-6602 Email: mahopharmacysxm@gmail.com www.philipsburgpharmacy.com
Maho Pharmacy offers a wide assortment of over-thecounter medications, French skin care products, and prescription medicine from Europe and the United States. The knowledgeable staff is happy to assist. Get your prescriptions filled with big savings versus US prices. Call, WhatsApp, or email for a price quote. Located in Maho Village with customer parking. Open daily until 9 p.m.
OCEAN JEWELERS, pg. 27
47C Front Street, Philipsburg (next to Holland House)
Tel: +1 721-542-2625 | +1 721-543-0434
Email: oceanjewelers@hotmail.com
Ocean Jewelers is a family-owned business retailing certified fine jewelry. Its biggest success comes from being highly recommended by customers. The store sells designer gold jewelry, GIA | EGL-USA-certified diamonds, branded watches, and more. If you want to appreciate the quality of merchandise running parallel to price, Ocean Jewelers is the store to visit.
ORO DIAMANTÉ, pg. 74, 75
62 B Front Street, Philipsburg
Tel: +1 721-543-0342 | +1 800-764-0884
Email: sales@oro-diamante.com
Facebook: Oro Diamanté - Fine Jewelers of Distinction Instagram: orodiamante_sxm www.oro-diamante.com
Oro Diamanté was established in St. Maarten in 1986 with the aim of providing a consistent long-term level of quality and service. Oro Diamanté has consistently ranked as one of the best jewelry stores in St. Maarten for over three decades. Owned by second-generation jewelers Jenny and Raju Budhrani, the store prides itself on first-rate quality and service. The store carries a large inventory of GIA-certified loose diamonds, including natural fancy-colored diamonds, the most extensive selection of certified pre-owned Rolex and
other brand-name watches, and the largest selection of genuine shipwreck coins from the Atocha and other famous shipwrecks. In addition, they have the unique creations of world-renowned designers like Hidalgo, Gabriel & Co., Jorg Heinz, Thomas Sabo, and Phillip Gavriel. Trade-ins are welcome. All prices are dutyand tax-free. Open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and seasonally on Sundays.
PACIFIC AVENUE, pg. 80
14 Front Street, Philipsburg Email: pacificavenue.sxm@gmail.com Facebook: Pacific Avenue
Aloha from Paradise at Pacific Avenue, where you’ll find quality and service. With brands such as Tommy Bahama, Au Noir, and Lilly Pulitzer, Pacific Avenue has something trendy for everyone. The store is opposite The Yoda Guy.
PANDORA, pg. 76-77
12-2 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-1109
5 Harbour Point Village, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-9364 www.boolchand.com/pandora
The world of Pandora jewelry is unique. Discover detailed design and craftsmanship brought to life with stories told by the wearer. Pandora jewelry is all about expressing who you are through your style. Give a voice to your loves through pieces that remind you of everything you are and everything you love, whether those are places, people, or passions. Discover our island charms and take a piece of St. Maarten home with you!
PAVILLION JEWELLERS, pg. 72
Front Street 47B, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-556-4981 WhatsApp: +1 721-556-4578
Facebook: @pavillionjewelers.sxm Pavillion Jewellers welcomes you to The Friendly Island. This jewelry store has something for everyone! You will find a large variety of quality diamond jewelry as well as a wide range of silver, gold, Larimar, opal, and much more.
POLO AT JL, Calendar
41 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-543-0196
Opened in 1993, the store, formerly a Polo Ralph Lauren boutique, has now seen the addition of top Italian designer Giorgio Armani. We offer a large selection for men, women, and children in the best that America and Italy have to offer. Visit this boutique and enjoy your shopping experience.
PRIME DISTRIBUTORS, pg. 31
Orange Grove Road #10, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3700
+1 721-586-2718 (also WhatsApp) Facebook: @PrimeCashAndCarry Instagram: @primedistributorssxm www.ezshop.primesxm.com
With 40+ years of service in quality products and a professional reputation, Prime Distributors is the largest distributor in St. Maarten and nearby islands, with exclusive rights to more than 200 brands. Prime Distributors is your one-stop shop for all food and beverage products, fresh and frozen foods, and cleaning products. Visit us online for convenient shopping.
RADISSON JEWELS, pg. 100
42 La Terrasse, Rhine Road 1, Maho Tel: +1 721-581-4804 | +1 718-618-5121 WhatsApp: +1 721-581-4804
Email: sales@radissonjewels.com Facebook/Instagram: @RadissonJewelsSXM www.radissonjewels.com
Featuring an impressive array of exclusive jewelry,
German timepieces, and pre-owned watches and bags, Radisson Jewels takes pride in helping customers choose the perfect gift for themselves or their loved ones. You will not be disappointed in the quality, prices, and excellent service.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN STORE, pg. 81
86B Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-8250
Email: rcstore@hotmail.com
At Royal Caribbean Store you will find high-quality, trending jewelry designs at the lowest prices, including diamonds and fine diamond jewelry in all shapes and sizes. Each purchase comes with a guarantee and evaluation papers. We also carry a wide range of silver and Larimar jewelry unique to the Caribbean for its magnificent turquoise-blue colors.
SIMPSON BAY PHARMACY, pg. 94
68 Welfare Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3653
Facebook: @simpsonbaypharmacy www.sxmpharmacy.com
Simpson Bay Pharmacy is located in Simpson Bay Yacht Club, within walking distance of a medical center and dentist. The pharmacy has a large selection of European and American prescription drugs, overthe-counter medications, and a wide assortment of beauty and personal care products. Simpson Bay Pharmacy was voted “Best Pharmacy in St. Maarten” by The Daily Herald 10 years in a row.
ST. MAARTEN NECTAR, pg. 95
HEADQUARTERS
15 Wellington Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544 2337
Email: info@stmaartennectar.com
MARIGOT BOUTIQUE
18 Rue de la Republique, Marigot Tel: 0690709956
Email: info@stmaartennectar.com
WELLNESS SPA
Oyster Bay Beach Resort
10 Emerald Merit Road, Oyster Pond Tel: +1 721-543-6849
Email: Spa@StMaartenNectar.com
LA SAMANNA BOUTIQUE
Baie Longue, Terres Basses, 97064 St. Martin Tel: +590 690-709956
HARBOUR KIOSK
Harbour Village, Point Blanche Tel: +1 721-544 2337
(open when cruise ships are in port) www.stmaartennectar.com
Facebook/Instagram: @StMaartenNectar
Nectar Skincare from Plants is 100 percent natural, vegan, organic, pure, and handmade in St. Maarten. Our collections of handmade products include skin and hair care, pure essential oils, self-care items, ready-to-go gift sets, and home-cleaning products, all chemical-free. At Nectar, we strive to produce healthy plant-based products. Switching to allnatural skin care is easy with Nectar Skincare from Plants. Visit any of the locations listed above for a true botanical experience. Natural Living Every Day!
SUNRISE GIFTS SHOP, pg. 97
#10 Maho Plaza, Rhine Road, Maho Tel: +1 721-545-4165
Sunrise Gifts Shop is the place to find something for everyone on your list, from T-shirts, sweatshirts, and caps to fun jewelry and accessories. Make sure to visit its unique in-house cigar shop, where you can enjoy a fine selection of Cuban cigars at affordable prices.
Adonis Cupecoy Hotel +1 721 545 0007 www.adonis-saintmartin.com
Alicia’s Inn +1 721 542 2403 www.aliciasinn.com
Atrium Beach Resort & Spa +1 721 544 2126 www.theatriumresort.com
The Azure Hotel +1 721 581 3858 www.azurehotelsxm.com
Belair Beach Hotel +1 721 542 3366 www.belairbeach.com
Carl’s Unique Inn +1 721 544 2812 www.carlsinn.com
Commodore Suites +1 721 544 3110 www.commodoresuites.com
Coral Beach Club +1 721 543 6308 www.coralbeach-club.com
Dawn Beach Club +1 721 546 9300 www.dawnbeachclub.com
Divi Little Bay Beach Resort +1 721 542 2333 www.diviresorts.com/divi-littlebay-beach-resort-st-maarten
Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten +1 721 544 3900 www.hilton.com
Hilton Vacation Club Royal Palm St. Maarten +1 721 544 3737 www.hilton.com
Holland House Beach Hotel +1 721 542 2572 www.hhbh.com
Horizon View Beach Hotel +1 721 543 2120 / +1 721 543 2121 www.horizonviewhotel.com
The Horny Toad Guesthouse +1 721 545 4323 www.thtgh.com
La Vista +1 721 544 3005 www.lavistaresort.com
L’Espérance Hotel +1 721 542 5355 / +1 721 542 5718 www.lesperancehotel.com
The Morgan Resort & Spa +1 721 545 4000 www.themorganresort.com
Oyster Beach Resort +1 721 543 6040 www.oysterbaybeachresort.com
Pasanggrahan Boutique Hotel +1 721 542 3588 www.pasanhotel.net
Pasture Piece Bed & Breakfast +1 721 554 8373 www.pasturepiecesxm.com
Princess Heights +1 721 543 6858 www.princessheights.com
Princess Port de Plaisance Resort +1 721 544 5222 www.saint-martin.com/princessport-deplaisance-resort
Royal Islander Club La Plage +1 721 545 2388 www.royalislander.com
Royal Island Club La Terrasse +1 721 545 2388 www.royalislander.com
Sapphire Beach Club & Resort +1 721 545 2179 www.sbcwi.com
Simpson Bay Resort +1 721 544 2503 www.simpsonbayresort.com
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa +1 721 545 2115 www.sonesta.com
Sonesta Ocean Point Resort +1 721 545 3100 www.sonesta.com
ACCOUNTING, CONSULTING & LEGAL SERVICES
Baker Tilly SXM +1 721 542 0448 bakertillydutchcaribbean
BZSE Law +1 721 542 7550 www.bzselaw.com
Compliance & Forensic Caribbean +1 721 580 4555 www.forensic-caribbean.com
Grant Thornton in the Dutch Caribbean +1 721 542 2379 www.grantthornton-dc.com
HBN Law SXM +1 721 542 2272 www.hbnlaw.com
Lexwell Attorneys +1 721 542 4670 www.lexwell.net
Magnis N.V. +1 721 544 3973 info@magnis.com
VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne +1 721 542 2902 www.ekvandoorne.com
Aqua Mania Adventures +1 721 544 2640 www.stmaarten-activities.com
Dive Sint Maarten +1 721 587 3483 www.divesintmaarten.com
Eagle Tours +1 721 542 3323 www.sailingsxm.com
Gamemaster Escape Solutions +1 204 781 9995 www.gamemastersescapes.com
Pyratz Gourmet Sailing +590 690 88 8111 www.pyratzsxm.com
Rainforest Adventures +1 721 543 1135 www.rainforestadventure.com
The Rusty Parrot — Sint Maarten Pirate Experience +1 721 553 8590 www.stmaartenpirates.com
Seaside Nature Park +1 721 544 5255 / +1 721 526 5238 www.seasidenaturepark.com
Sint Maarten Yacht Club +1 721 544 2079 www.smyc.com
Starz Casino +1 721 545 4601 www.starzsxm.com
Tri-Sport +1 721 545 4384 www.trisportsxm.com
Vacation Store www.instagram.com/vacationstore/ www.facebook.com/vacationstore.net
AIR TRAVEL
Princess Juliana International Airport +1 721 546 7542 www.sxmairport.com
Signature Flight Support +1 721 546 7842 www.signatureflight.com/locations/sxm
ASSOCIATIONS & FOUNDATIONS
Indian Merchants Associations (IMA) imasxm@gmail.com K1 Britannia Foundation +1 721 553 8186 www.k1britanniafoundation.org
Sint Maarten National Heritage Foundation +1 721 542 4917
St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) +1 721 586 1514 www.yachtingstmaarten.com St. Maarten Sea Rescue Foundation +1 721 520 4133 www.facebook.com/St-Maarten-Sea-Rescue
St. Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA) info@timesharestmaarten.com
Wildflowers Centre Foundation +1 721 587 6477
BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES
Caribbean Credit Bureau +1 721 587 8746 www.caribbeancreditbureau.com
ORCO Bank +1 721 544 4744 www.orcobank.com/sint-maarten
RBC Royal Bank +1 721 546 7252 www.rbcroyalbank.com/caribbean
CONSTRUCTION INFRASTRUCTURE
Central Mix Concrete +1 721 542 7520 / +1 721 520 1141 www.centralmixconcrete.com
DOMUS Windows & Doors Ltd. +1 868 235 3700 or WhatsApp: +1 868-295-7936 www.domuswindows.com
Liccom +1 721 543 7168 www.liccom.net
Windward Roads +1 721 542 7520 / +1 721 542 7528 www.windwardroads.com
DINING, LUNCH & NIGHTLIFE
3 Amigos +1 721 588 8884
Al Pasha +1 721 545 2588
Amasterdam Bar +1 721 581 2222 www.facebook.com/Amasterdam-Sxm
Aziana +1 721 542 6988 www.aziana.sx
Beirut +1 721 545 3612 www.beirutsxm.com
Bovin Steak House +1 721 544 2503 simpsonbayresort.com/bovin.asp#
Carl & Sons Bakery/Café +1 721 544 2812 www.facebook.com/carlnsons
Coffee Lounge 1 721 523 2119 www.facebook.com/sxmcoffeelounge
Domino’s Pizza +1 721 542 4397 www.dominos.sx
Dutch Blonde Beach Bar +1 721 522 5591 www.facebook.com/craftbeerfromhere
Emilio’s +1 721 522 1848 www.emilios-sxm.com/
Fort Amsterdam Café +1 721 542 2333 www.diviresorts.com/little-bay-dining
Gizmo’s Bar & Grill +1 721 542 2333 ext. 3705 www.diviresorts.com/little-bay-dining
The Hideaway Restaurant +1 721 544 3005 www.lavistaresort.com
Infinity Restaurant +1 721 543 6040
www.oysterbaybeachresort.com/stmaarten/restaurants/infinity-restaurant
Juliette’s Bistro +1 721 544 2503 ext. 5520 www.juliettesbistro.com
Karakter St. Maarten
+1 721 523 9983 www.karakterstmaarten.com
Kingsman +1 721 588 6662 www.facebook.com/Kingsmansxm
La Patrona Restaurant +1 721 544-2503 ext. 5500 www.facebook.com/lapatronasintmaarten
Ocean Lounge +1 721 542 2572 www.oceanloungesxm.com
Pineapple Pete Restaurant and Bar +1 721 544 6030 headpineapple@gmail.com
Pure Ocean +1 721 542 2333 ext. 3477 www.pureoceanrestaurant.com
Replay Restaurant & Bar +1 721 544 2503 www.facebook.com/ReplayRestaurant
Sale & Pepe +1 721 545 0021 www.salepepesxm.com
Spices of India +1 721 545 5522 info@spicesofindiasxm.com www.spicesofindiasxm.com
St. Rose Café +1 721 546 6799
Topper’s Restaurant +1 721 544 3500 www.sxmtoppers.com
Veranda Market and Bistro +1 721 543 6040 www.oysterbaybeachresort.com
EDUCATION
Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School +1 721 543 1650 www.ashastevenscampus.net
Milton Peters College +1 721 548 3190 mpc@svobe.org
Philipsburg Jubilee Library +1 721 542 2970 www.stmaartenlibrary.org
Sundial School +1 721 542 2910 sundialschool@svobe.org
University of St. Martin (USM) +1 721 542 5171 www.usm.sx
ENERGY
Dynaf +1 721 543 6785 www.dynaf.com
GB Energy Texaco +1 721 544 5209 www.gbgroup.com
Sol St. Maarten +1 721 544 5361 www.solpetroleum.com
ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS
Epic Foundation +1 721 545 3009 www.epicislands.org
Nature Foundation St. Maarten +1 721 544 4267 www.naturefoundationsxm.org
HR & LABOR SERVICES
FWG Progressional People +1 721 523 8191 www.fwg.nl
Global Resourcing +1 721 542 0542 www.globalresourcing.nl
Sint Maarten Consulting Group +1 721 542 4709 www.sxmconsulting.com
INSURANCE
AON Insurance Brokers and Risk Consultants +1 721 553 2234 www.aon.com
Atlas Risk Solutions +1 721 542 0216 www.atlasrisksolutions.com
Ennia +1 721 543 2232 www.ennia.com/en
Guardian Group — Fatum +1 721 542 2248 www.dutchcaribbean.myguardiangroup.com
Gulf Insurance Limited +1 721 54 25206 www.gulfinsuranceltd.com
Nagico Insurance +1 721 542 2739 www.nagico.com
Navigator Insurance Consultants +1 721 581 8735 www.navigator-insuranceconsultants.com
IT SERVICES
Carib Work — IT +1 721 545 2504 www.caribwork.com
Keijzer Computers +1 721 544 3166 www.keijzercomputersxm.com
MADE IN ST. MAARTEN
Caribbean Brewing Company +1 721 524 4956 www.sanmartinbeer.com
Nectar +1 721 544 2337 www.stmaartennectar.com
SXM Beer +1 721 527 6186 www.sxmbeer.com
Topper’s Rhum +1 721 520 0008 www.toppersrhumtours.com
MEDIA & MARKETING
360° of Innovation +297 592 8922 bianca@360innovation.xyz
Antonio Media +31 40 202 50 69 www.antoniomedia.com
Faxinfo +590 690 29 2222 www.faxinfo.sx
Inspire | Focus www.inspire-focus.com
Marketing and Co Associés +590 690 88 69 69 / +1 721 556 7641 www.passtime.eu/sectors/228-978-977saintbarth-saint-martin-sint-maarten
North South Net www.northsouthnet.com
ShowMe Caribbean +599 9 789 4908 / +599 9 660 9075 www.showmecaribbean.com
The Daily Herald +1 721 542 5253 www.thedailyherald.sx
MEDICAL & HEALTH CARE Medwork +1 721 544 8428 / +1 721 580 2498 www.medwork.aw
Philipsburg Pharmacy +1 721 542 3001 www.philipsburgpharmacy.com
Simpson Bay Pharmacy +1 721 544 3653 www.sxmpharmacy.com
St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) +1 721 543 1111 www.smmc.sx
NAUTICAL & SHIPPING AGS Meyer +1 721 527 4232 / +1 721 588 4270 www.meyermoving.com
Island Global Yachting +1 721 544 2408 www.igymarinas.com/marinas/ yacht-club-islede-sol/
Port St. Maarten +1 721 542 8504 / +1 721 542 8503 www.portstmaarten.com
Safe Cargo +1 721 542 3506 www.safe.sx
REAL ESTATE/ VACATION RENTALS Antilles Realty +1 721 542 4946 www.antillesrealty.com
Indigo Green +1 721 543 7999 www.indigogreen.sx Info@IndigoGreen.SX
RE/MAX Island Properties +1 721 544 4580 www.remaxislandproperties.com
St. Martin Sotheby’s Realty +1 213 805 0840 www.sxmsir.com
RENTALS EUROPCAR +1 721 543 5270 www.europcar-sxm.com/en
RETAIL
Ballerina Jewelers +1 721 542 4399 www.ballerina-jewelers.com
Between the Palms www.facebook.com/BetweenPalms
Caribbean Palms +1 721 584 2538 www.caribbean-palms.com
Carrefour +1 721 542 4400 www.cmsxm.net
Cost U less +1 721 542 9860 www.costuless.com
Diamonds International +1 721 542 0238 www.diamondsinternational.com
Electec N.V. +1 721 544 2051 www.electec.info
Firgos Paper St. Maarten NV +1 721 542 4147 www.firgospaper.com
Joe’s Jewelry +1 721 543 7020 www.joesjewelry.com
Kooyman BV +1 721 543 3333 www.kooymanbv.com
Napa Auto Truck & Marine Parts +1 721 544 3355 www.napaonline.com/en/ isx/cole-bay-stmaarten
Obersi Electronics +1 721 542 2785
Zhaveri Jewelers +1 721 543 1075 www.zhaveri.com
TELECOMMUNICATION
Critical Communication Caribbean +1 721 542 5414 www.c3.cw
TelEm Group +1 721 548 4357 www.telemgroup.sx
TRAVEL AGENTS & OTA’S Expedia +1 721 520 1211 www.expedia.com
S.E.L. Maduro & Sons +1 721 543 0796 srichardson@maduro-sxm.com
WHOLESALERS
CC1 St. Maarten +1 721 542 2283 ordersxm@cc1sxm.com
Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco B.V (CLT) +1 721 542 2140 www.cltbv.com
International Liquor & Tobacco Trading (ILTT) +1 721 543 7721 / +1 721 543 7723 www.iltt-sxm.com
PDG Supplies +1721 544 2134 www.pdgsupplies.com
Prime Distributors +1 721 544 3700 www.ezshop.primesxm.com
OTHER US Laundry
+1 721 544 4169 www.us-laundry.com/main
