Experience Sint Maarten | Saint Martin 2015 by Sole Sastre

EXPERIENCE Sint Maar ten

Saint Mar t in 2 015

Breguet, the innovator. Classique Hora Mundi - 5717 An invitation to travel across the continents and oceans illustrated on three versions of the hand-guillochĂŠ lacquered dial, the Classique Hora Mundi is the first mechanical watch with an instant-jump time-zone display. Thanks to a patented mechanical memory based on two heart-shaped cams, it instantly indicates the date and the time of day or night in a given city selected using the dedicated pushpiece. History is still being written...

7 Rue du General de Gaulle - Marigot - St. Martin (Flagship Location) - Tel (590) 590 87 25 50 - USA Tel: 1 917 546 0902 69B Front Street - Philipsburg - St. Maarten (New Location) - Tel: (1) 721 542 6808 - USA Tel: 1 917 463 4319

mbodying far more than a mere watch, the Patrimony ultra-thin calibre

www.vacheron-constantin.com - www.thehourlounge.com

1731 is a creation with a slender movement, perfect design, and pure sound dedicated to the ultimate complication: the Minute Repeater. <PM Ã&#x2026;Z[\ [\ZQSQVO _I\KPM[ _PQKP [MZ^ML \W \MTT \PM \QUM MUMZOML QV \PM \P KMV\]Za They were capable of sounding the hours, quarters, and minutes on demand. <PM ! UU PQOP KI[M WN \PQ[ \]VMN]T \QUMXQMKM PW][M[ I PIVL _W]VL KITQJZM \PI\ Q[ K]ZZMV\Ta \PM [TQUUM[\ QV \PM _WZTL WN .QVM ?I\KPUISQVO I\ R][\ ! UU \PQV IVL VI\]ZITTa JMIZ[ \PM XZM[\QOQW][ 0ITTUIZS WN /MVM^I

7 RUE DU GENERAL DE GAULLE 8 MARIGOT 8 ST. MARTIN (FLAGSHIP LOCATION) TEL: (59)0590 87 25 50 8 USA TEL: 1 917 546 0902 8 E-MAIL: JBL1@JEWELSBYLOVE.COM 69B FRONT STREET 8 PHILIPSBURG 8 ST. MAARTEN (NEW LOCATION) TEL: (1 721)542 6808 8 USA TEL: 1 917 463 4319 8 E-MAIL: JBL2@JEWELSBYLOVE.COM WWW.JEWELSBYLOVE.COM

Patrimony ultra-thin calibre 1731

We perfect this watch by hand.

Even though you will probably never see many of the levers, wheels,

a s p e c i f i c ty p e o f f i n i s s a g e a n d m u s t c o m p l y w i t h t h e m o s t

and springs in the movement of the 6ǗǮǥǤǟǗ $ǤǤǫǗǢ &ǗǢǛǤǚǗǨ,

stringent artisanal and aesthetic standards. ,n all $. Lange & Söhne

Lange’s master watchmakers meticulously ref ine them by hand.

timepieces, the movement components are decorated, polished,

No matter how tiny or hidden a part may be, each one is endowed with

and engraved according to venerable traditions. $ll the edges

7 Rue du General De Gaulle · Marigot · St. Martin (Flagship Location) · Tel: (59) 0590 87 25 50 · USA Tel: 1 917 546 0902 · Email: jbl1@jewelsbylove.com 69B Front Street · Philipsburg · St. Maarten (New Location) · Tel: (1 721) 542 6808 · USA Tel: 1 917 463 4319 · Email: jbl2@jewelsbylove.com www.jewelsbylove.com

Even the parts that you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see.

of plates, bridges, and levers are chamfered, which means they

watch unique. To make sure the lavish decorations and the precise

are bevelled at a constant angle and then polished. Some bridges

interaction of several hundred individual parts do not remain

a n d p a r t i c u l a rl y t h e b a l a n c e c o c k a re a d o r n e d i n a s p e c i a l

totally concealed, each Lange watch is fitted with a sapphire-crystal

way: with a hand-engraved f loral pattern that makes each Lange

caseback. Treat yourself to a closer look. www.alange-soehne.com

All you need is Love! We specialize in ideal cut GIA certified diamonds

Not all brands available in both locations

How do you judge the caliber of a jeweler?

by the company he keeps...

The Big Four! Patek Philippe, a name synonymous with superlative watchmaking, was established in 1839. Among their distinguished clients have been Albert Einstein, Madame Marie Curie, Rudyard Kipling, Queen Victoria, Tchaikovsky... and a plethora of royalty, past and present. Patek Philippe is the undisputed king at watch auctions and holds more world records than all others combined! "You never actually own a Patek Philippe; you merely take care of it for the next generation."

Founded in 1775, the legendary watchmaker Breguet, is unrivaled in the realm of inventions the most famous being the magical tourbillon! Acknowledged by the cognoscenti as the greatest watchmaker of all time, Breguet’s client list is the most impressive of any watchmaker in the history of watchmaking; it includes the likes of Queen Marie-Antoinette, Emperor Napoleon, Sir Winston Churchill, Ettore Bugatti, George Washington, Tsar Alexander the list is endless...

Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watch manufacturer, uninterrupted since 1755. This patriarch of legendary watchmaking has been the benchmark of ‘haute horlogerie’ and the finest craftsmanship for generations. Vacheron Constantin timepieces are the gift of choice by governments to mark momentous events in history to royalty, world leaders and celebrities. Their client list reads like the blue book of the greatest leaders of all time.

A. Lange & Söhne has been creating fine timepieces since 1845 and is the only non-Swiss watchmaker who commands a position at the pinnacle of watchmaking. The youngest of the “Big Four” has rightfully earned the reputation of “making the impossible, possible” among connoisseurs! A prodigious innovator, A. Lange & Söhne timepieces are highly sought-after by uncompromising aficionados. Every Lange watch is made to last a lifetime...

The Big Four are widely recognized as the greatest watchmakers of all time - often referred to as the ‘Four Pillars’ of fine watchmaking! In what is at once a tribute and a testimonial to their reputation, their unrivaled quality and their timeless value, virtually all the world records at auctions are held by the ‘Magnificent Four’ testifying that they are 'art', 'heirloom' and 'investment' all rolled in one. Not only are they easily portable and extremely 'liquid' investments but very discreetly 'under-the-radar' as well. A mere handful of jewelers in the entire world have the privilege of being invited by ALL of the BIG FOUR to showcase their collections under one roof. Jewels by Love has the unique privilege of being chosen and being honored with this distinction.

7 Rue du Général de Gaulle - Marigot - St. Martin (Flagship Location) - Tel: (590) 590 87 25 50 USA Tel: 1 917 546 0902 - Email: jbl1@jewelsbylove.com 69B Front Street - Philipsburg - St. Maarten (New Location) - Tel: (1) 721 542 6808 USA Tel: 1 917 463 4319 - Email: jbl2@jewelsbylove.com www.jewelsbylove.com

All you need is Love! We specialize in ideal cut GIA certified diamonds

Marine Chronometer Manufacture Manufacture chronometer movement with Silicium technology. Self-winding. Water-resistant to 200 m. 18 ct rose gold case. Available also on rubber strap or gold bracelet. Limited Edition to 350 pieces.

W W W . U LY S S E - N A R D I N . C O M

All you need is Love! We specialize in ideal cut GIA certified diamonds

Pioneering in the most beautiful way: Metro with the new in-house NOMOS swing system

SXM2015

Welcome

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EXPERIENCE Sint Maar ten

Saint Mar t in 2 015

Dear Reader,

rom the bustling bars along Great Bay and the striking cliffs of Cupecoy to the world-class cuisine of Grand Case and the tranquility of Tintamarre, St. Maarten/St. Martin is a uniquely spectacular destination. Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin has been showcasing the best the island has to offer for more than nine years. For the 2015 edition, we’ve partnered with travel writers and journalists from both the Dutch and French sides to capture the island’s distinctive voice. Inside Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin — or Experience SXM, for short — you’ll find informative and interesting stories about local attractions, shopping and dining options. You’ll also read about the vibrant nightlife and captivating cultural scene that thrive here. This year, we’re also profiling several local personalities that embody the diversity of island life. Our award-winning photographer, Thierry Dehove, has once again provided Experience with the breathtaking pictures that fill the book’s pages, from the portraits of local personalities to the awe-inspiring images of the island’s natural wonders. Speaking of breathtaking: We trekked to an isolated natural pool tucked along a remote shoreline near Point Blanche in order to get the shot you see on the cover (For more on our cover girl, model and digital media entrepreneur Laeticia Gentil, turn to page 38). Photography buffs will be interested to know that Thierry shot more than 200 images with his Canon 5D Mark II — with an assist from Experience SXM art director Ethan Duran — to capture the perfect frame. “She didn’t need makeup, just this beautiful expression,” said Thierry. “It was just us, far away from everything. A perfect day.” “We wanted something edgy and sexy, but also natural and beautiful,” said Ethan. It’s a description that describes not only Laeticia, but the island she calls home. On behalf of the Experience SXM team, we hope you enjoy reading our publication as much as we enjoyed producing it. Thanks, merci and dank je,

am Experience SXM Te

Keep it Going: Stay up-to-date and chime in using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

EXPERIENCE Sint Maar ten

Saint Mar t in 2 015

Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is written, designed and produced by

A subsidiary of The McClatchy Company 3511 NW 91 Ave., Miami, FL 33172 Tel: 305.376.2686, Fax: 305.995.8108 Copyright ©2014 by HCP/Aboard Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only.

President & Publisher ERIN ZILIS WHAT WAS YOUR SXM EXPERIENCE? Food in SXM is amazing: Satays and gazpacho at Ocean Lounge, croissants at Zee Best and anything and everything in Grand Case!

Chief Operating Ofﬁcer GIOVANNA SANCHEZ EDITORIAL Editorial Director DESIRÉE BLANCO Managing Editor ROSA CALDERÓN Senior Editor CAROLINA CARDONA Editor SOLE SASTRE Associate Editors JENNY ACOSTA-HORTA CHRISTINE BORGES Editorial Assistant SONIA PÉREZ DESIGN Design Director ALFREDO AÑEZ Art Director ETHAN DURAN Senior Graphic Designer CARLOS MARTÍN Graphic Designers JESSICA BECERRA-ORTIZ EDWIN CRUZ RODRIGO NUÑO RUIZ Staff Photographer J. KEVIN FOLTZ

Atop the mountains you get sweeping views of the ocean below, truly a stunning sight.

engaged Â® LOV E B E YO N D PA S S I O N

www.oro-diamante.com 62-B Front Street & Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort St. Maarten (Dutch Caribbean) 721.543.0342 | 800.764.0884

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION Production Director LUISA ZELAYA-MORILLO Advertising Services Coordinators DAYAN STEPHANI AGUDELO dagudelo@hcpaboard.com CLAUDIA STAEBLEIN cstaeblein@hcpaboard.com

Nothing beats an early morning swim at Great Bay Beach.

I love breakfast in St. Martin. They have great crĂŞpes.

Distribution Manager WALTER FRANCO ACCOUNTING Director of Finance THOMAS BARDON Accounting Supervisor CECILIA ROCA SALES Senior Vice President of Advertising EWALD FUCHS efuchs@hcpaboard.com

SXMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SFAVORITE BREAKFAST

Business Developers ANDREW BERMAN MARC RUEHLE JOHN TRABANCO Sales Operations Manager JEANIE SCHOONMAKER jschoonmaker@hcpaboard.com

SINCE 1983!

Administrative Assistant MELINDA WALKER

Breakfast until 2pm! EVERYDAY

LUNCH STARTS @ 11:30-2PM (EXCEPT SUNDAYS)

3 LOCATIONS: Â&#x2021; YDFKW &OXE 6LPSVRQ %D\ (Behind Scotia Bank) Â&#x2021; =HH%HVW %DNHVKRS, Airport Rd (Between Budget & Thifty Car Rental) Â&#x2021; 3RUW DH 3ODLVDQFH (Princess Casino)

=EE%E67RE67A8RA17 &20 Â&#x2021; 7E/

The airplanes landing and taking off are pretty amazing.

My favorite thing to do is hit Le Galion for a good surďŹ ng session.

ADVERTISING Regional Sales MEDIA MARKETING, INC. ST. THOMAS, USVI 340.774.0920 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER THIERRY DEHOVE

ExperienceStMaarten.com U ExperienceDestinations.com @ExperienceSXM U

@ExperienceSXM

Scan this QR code with your smartphone to see the digital edition of Experience St. Maarten/St. Martin in a flash at experiencestmaarten.customtravelmags.com.

o ocean lounge o bar & restaurant

WELCOME TO THE OCEAN LOUNGE RESTAURANT FOR AN INSPIRING AND CULINARY HAPPENING

Call us for reservations; T: 1-721-5422572 or email oceanlounge@hollandhousehotel.com

Located in the Holland House Beach Hotel Frontstreet 43 Philipsburg PARKING AVAILABLE!

Beautiful Location Outdoor Lounge Caribbean Lobsters Signature “Fruit de Mer” USDA Steaks Great Service Excellent wines ...Not to be missed!

SXM2015

Table of Contents

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BEACHES

Sheer bliss on golden shores

Â©T&CO. 2014

INTRODUCING TIFFANY T ST. MAARTEN 52 FRONT STREET PHILLIPSBURG 721 542 3530 TIFFANY.COM

Table of Contents

ARTS & CULTURE Dive into the colors and rhythms of island life

EAT & DRINK Treats and sweets that taste of paradise

NIGHTLIFE Barhop, dance and gamble the night away

102

SHOPPING Great finds at market stalls and high-end malls

112

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Rest and relax or work up a sweat

UP FRONT Spend a day on each side of the island

118

USEFUL INFORMATION

SNAPSHOTS

Tips and facts to help you navigate the friendly island

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about our people

126

MAP

ATTRACTIONS

Look around, sights abound

ADVENTURES Get in the action, on land and in the sea

ISLAND HOPPING

From one vacation, many discoveries

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ATHENS BEIJING BERLIN DUBAI DÜSSELDORF HONG KONG LONDON NEW YORK SEOUL SHANGHAI ZÜRICH MCMWORLDWIDE.COM

SXM2015

Cont ributors

THIERRY DEHOVE PHOTOGRAPHER

DIGS: Anguilla; originally from Paris

AS SEEN IN: The Wall Street Journal, Yachts International, Condé Nast Traveler, Professional Photographer UK and Kiteboarding magazine, among many others. BEST-KEPT SECRET IN SXM: Loterie Farm TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: My Canon 5D and my MacBook Pro. Can you guess why? FAVORITE SPOT TO UNWIND: Bamboo Bernie’s, then head upstairs to Sky Bar. IDEAL DAY IN SXM: Kitesurﬁng in Le Galion.

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TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER DIGS: Miami, Florida AS SEEN IN: Award-winning journalist and editor, formerly of The Miami Herald; contributor to National Public Radio and publications ranging from Indulge magazine to Boys' Life; former editor of Experience SXM. FAVORITE SXM MOMENT: Climbing the rocky trail near Pointe Blanche. TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Sensible footwear. I learned this the hard way! BEST-KEPT SXM SECRET: Go to experiencestmaarten.com to download a digital version of Experience SXM so you can take us wherever you go.

LUCINDA FRYE WRITER

DIGS: SXM, by way of South Africa AS SEEN IN: Travel and food articles published abroad and on the island, including forThe Daily Herald. BEST-KEPT SECRET IN SXM: Le Trou de David/David’s Hole, which is slightly inaccessible. FAVORITE SXM MEAL: Ethnic Mediterranean at Byblos Lounge; alternatively, anywhere that serves a good rosé and seared foie gras. IDEAL SXM DAY: Harvest from the garden at dawn, followed by a day on the water with lunch or picnic at Isle Pinel or Flat Island. Then, wind down with a light meal and a swim in the pool.

Cont ributors

MONTAGUE KOBBÉ

ALITA SINGH

LANNIG STERVINOU

MARIANNE TEFFT

DIGS: Anguilla and London

DIGS: SXM; born in Guyana

DIGS: SXM; born in Brittany

AS SEEN IN: Writes a literary column in the Weekender supplement of The Daily Herald. His novel, The Night of the Rambler, and a bilingual collection of micro stories, Tales of Bed Sheets and Departure Lounges/Historias de camas y aeropuertos, were published in 2013.

AS SEEN IN: Senior journalist at The Daily Herald newspaper in St. Maarten. She is also in an episode of HGTV’s House Hunters International and the I Love My Island Dog calendar (she’s Miss November). BEST-KEPT SECRET IN SXM: It’s the safest place if you are a celebrity. Here, you are just one of us! TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: My dragonﬂy necklace to remind me of possibilities, M.A.C. mascara for longer lashes and a book for adventure while on an adventure! IDEAL DAY IN SXM: A day with my eclectic group of friends who hail from various countries and speak different languages but all choose SXM as their home.

AS SEEN IN: Fomer editor-in-chief of Trendy’s magazine; writes for the daily St. Martin newspaper Le Pélican. BEST-KEPT SECRET IN SXM: The secluded beach named Happy Bay. TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Music on my iPod, my camera and my toothbrush — obviously. FAVORITE SPOT TO UNWIND: Riding my horse at the Colombier equestrian center. IDEAL DAY IN SXM: A day at the beach: swimming, drinking cocktails and chatting with friends.

DIGS: SXM, by way of the United States and Canada

WRITER

TRAVEL ESSENTIAL: Take it easy. FAVORITE SXM SPOT TO UNWIND: Anand’s Indian restaurant in Philipsburg, followed by a sunset drink at the bar of the Holland House.

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WRITER

AS SEEN IN: She’s a teacher, writer and poet who frequently appears at SXM spoken word events. BEST-KEPT SECRET IN SXM: The trail to the natural pools between Pointe Blanche and Guana Bay. TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Running shoes, bathing suit and one really nice pareo — in a serious pinch, it ﬁlls in for everything from pajamas to a cocktail dress! FAVORITE SXM MEAL: Any table where the number of languages spoken equals or exceeds the number of guests. FAVORITE SPOT TO UNWIND: Poolside at Hotel L’Esplanade in Grand Case.

SXM2015

Up Front

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Lovely

DAY

A single day in St. Maarten/ St. Martin will catch your eye, tantalize your senses and leave you breathless.

Grand Case

Up Front

Orirent Bay

BELLE JOURNÉE BY LANNIG STERVINOU

here are many ways to appreciate St. Martin’s white-sand beaches and turquoise shores, as well as its French style with a Creole twist. Start by getting out early. Not only is the light fantastic, but the weather is divine. Head to Marigot for a Parisian breakfast: freshly squeezed orange juice, croissant and black coffee at a terrace café, watching the island slowly come to life.

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In the nearby open-air market, the fishermen are just returning from sea, as ladies in brightly colored dresses sell tropical fruits, vegetables, spices and rum. Walk down the streets of Marigot where luxurious dutyfree boutiques sell designer clothing, fragrances, precious jewels and many other items. Farther down, Marina Fort Louis harbors an armada of

impressive yachts. Stroll down to the far end of the pier, where you might spot a leopard ray gliding by. If you are limber and energetic, climb up the steps to the eponymous Fort Louis, where you can revel in amazing 360-degree views of the island. Otherwise, just take a leisurely stroll around Marina Port La Royale, perusing its many shops and restaurants.

Farther down, Marina Fort-Louis harbors an armada of impressive yachts. Stroll down to the far end of the pier where you might spot a leopard ray gliding by.

At about noon it’s time to go to one of the most breathtaking beaches on the island: Orient Bay. Enjoy a light lunch sitting in the shade of a large umbrella, feet in the sand, looking out toward the horizon, and then spend the day either lying on a beach chair, working on your tan or sailing, parasailing, ﬁshing, snorkeling or diving. Walking the strand is a good idea, too. Pick up a cool cocktail along the beach and enjoy it to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. As the sun sets, Grand Case is the place to be. This charming Creole village wakes up just as night falls. Pick up a tropical drink at one of the cafés there and have it right on the beach while watching the sun disappear into the Caribbean.

If you’re lucky, you might even see the green ﬂash — the day’s last ray of light. Some say that if you’re swimming when it ﬂashes, the sun will bathe you in all of its positive energy. It wouldn’t hurt to give it a try. Come dinnertime, Boulevard de Grand Case’s long line of French restaurants have earned the village a reputation for having the best French cuisine in the Caribbean. Lobster, oysters, fresh fish, foie gras, escargots, truffles, chanterelles, squab, frog and a host of other offerings invite you to be bold and adventurous. Depending on the restaurant, you can have dishes made in the traditional fashion or be treated to contemporary takes on recipes, with rare

spices offering surprising flavors. You will also have the best wines and Champagnes to go with your dinner, and the enticing desserts are a delightful way to indulge in the island’s French heritage. Since the night is not over yet, it’s a good thing you are already in Grand Case, as you won’t need to go anywhere to party. Some venues host live bands, and there are plenty of places to dance, too. Depending on your musical tastes, you can go for a night of reggae, salsa or just about anything else you can imagine, hopping from one bar to the next, meeting friendly locals and practicing your French. After a few cocktails, you’ll get the hang of it and start to declare, “Vive St. Martin!”

L’Effet Mer

Up Front

Cupecoy

GOING DUTCH BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

ven the most laid-back travelers want to make the most of their holiday — especially when vacationing in St. Maarten, where diversions are aplenty. From morning to midnight the Dutch side of the island has a lot to offer. Here are just a few ideas on how to spend your day. Ready to rise and shine? While the hilly cliffs of Cupecoy are a well-known spot for a sunset cocktail, they’re also a great place to start your day. Other neighborhoods may be easing gently into the morning, but Cupecoy offers early risers a jump start. The gently sloping roads offer beautiful views, along with a chance to stretch your legs. A Tuesday morning walking club leads visitors on a brisk tour of the area that ends with breakfast at Fig, a French-

inspired restaurant (fitting, as Cupecoy is just over the border from the partie Français). For a less strenuous start to your morning, the Rendezvous Lounge at the Porto Cupecoy complex offers free Wi-Fi for visitors hoping to catch up on their e-mails with an idyllic view of yachts bobbing in the marina. You can enjoy the traditional Dutch breakfast of Uijtsmiter, two pieces of toast with ham, cheese and sunny-side up eggs. Dog lovers will be delighted to meet the owner’s pooch, who is the café’s unofficial mascot and a frequent visitor. As you wind up your morning in Cupecoy, be sure to stop by the nearby Blue Mall, which offers duty-free shopping at such stores as Adidas, Anne Klein and Coach. If you still haven’t gotten your shopping fix after that, head west

Share the Magic: Check in throughout your stay using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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to Philipsburg, famous for its duty-free shops with a rich array of offerings that include jewelry, cosmetics, electronics, leather goods, liquor and designer clothing. Looking to take home a piece of St. Maarten’s Dutch heritage? Stop at the Dutch Delft Blue Gallery in the Sint Rose Arcade. The tradition of making and collecting the distinctive blue-and-white pottery dates back to the 16th century. You’ll probably be peckish after a few hours of shopping, so head over to Chesterfield’s for a cold brew and some tasty bites. The restaurant, located right on the docks of the Great Bay Marina, has been a neighborhood fixture for decades. As the afternoon draws to a close, take the short walk along the dock to the Lord Sheffield, a 72-foot square-rigged brigantine. The ship’s “sunset soiree” begins at 4:30 p.m. with cocktails on the dock. Then the party sets sail, so passengers can enjoy a view of the sunset along with an open bar, romantic music and a dinner that includes barbecue ribs and chicken. You’ll return just after nightfall, refreshed and ready to start exploring St. Maarten’s nightlife. Keep the party going in Maho. Known for Maho Beach — where the low-flying jumbo jets landing at Princess Juliana airport are a famed tourist draw — the area also has plenty of casinos, dance clubs and late-night lounges. Enjoy a cocktail at Bamboo Bernie’s, a sophisticated Asianinspired bar and restaurant that is also home to the nightclub Tantra. Cap off the evening by heading upstairs to the Sky Beach rooftop lounge, where you can dance with your toes in the sand while under the stars — a picturesque ending to a perfect St. Maarten day.

FRONT DININ G WATER

Park in

Simpson Bay Lagoon

Paradise Casino

FOR THE LOVE OF THAI

Wel fa

re R d

Megaplex Cinema

Reservation recommended: +1-721-559-2811 Located on Welfare Rd in Simpson Bay (Behind First Caribbean Bank)

01&/ &7&3:%": t -6/$) %*//&3 For our menu, visit www.panlaansxm.com

SXM2015

Snapsho ts

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Faces &

VOICES Even with its rich heritage and wealth in natural beauty, SXMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest asset is still its people.

Snapsho ts

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COVER GIRL BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

aetitia Gentil, who grew up in the Montmartre area of Paris, is the co-founder of iosxm.tv, which produces videos that capture and document all aspects of life on SXM, from local politics and personalities to carnival celebrations and concerts. The company began as a provider of online content, available on the Web and on mobile devices; but the co-founders plan on launching a cable television version in 2015. After studying fashion photography in Paris, she left for an internship in Toronto, where a stint shooting a hip-hop festival inspired her to become a videographer. Q: What brought you to SXM? A: My visa in Canada was expiring, and I had a friend who was getting married in SXM. She asked me to come, so I did and I never left! Now its been three years. Something about this beautiful island caught me. Q: Tell us about iosxm.tv. A: www.iosxm.tv was born in October 2012. We do

everything, from creating shows, shooting, selling advertising, editing the videos and maintaining the Web site on a daily basis. The main purpose was to give a voice to the people of St. Martin and have them involved in the community through the different events and news going on on the island. We want to develop the videography field on the island by teaching the youth, creating live programs where people will have the opportunity to debate and raise their voices and cover all types of events on the island. It’s the beginning of a big adventure, and it’s really exciting! Q: What inspires you about SXM? A: The landscapes and always beautiful weather, of course, as anybody who grew up in a city would say. But there is something else about SXM that catches you: The multicultural aspect of SXM’s citizens is like a treasure of opportunities; you can meet a lot of interesting people coming

from all over the world. There is so much to do and develop on the island. It gives you the power and freedom to create, like everything is possible. It is the best feeling for me. Q: What do you do when you’re not working? A: I am ALWAYS working. It keeps me going. I live my passion 24/7. Sometimes I have to battle to take breaks. But when I do, I enjoy spending a Sunday relaxing at the beach. A good restaurant and a movie at night are always nice, too. Q: Tell us about your experience shooting for Experience SXM: A: The shooting for Experience SXM was amazing! We had that walk to go to the location and it’s always magical when you ﬁnally get to the natural pools. Thierry Dehove,the photographer, is a really sweet person, he guided me and the shoot went quick! Meeting him and Experience SXM team was great and I hope we will have the occasions to work again together.

There is something else about SXM that catches you: The multicultural aspect of SXM’s citizens is like a treasure of opportunities.

Snapsho ts

host poets and writers from around the world in a series of public readings, workshops and discussions. On the Saturday of the fair, hundreds of bibliophiles converge on Philipsburg’s University of St. Martin to stock up on books, meet the writers, enjoy open-air readings and join wide-ranging literary and social discussions. The most recent edition of the fair drew authors from throughout the Caribbean and as far as Turkey and Sudan. The next fair is scheduled for June 4–6, 2015. For more information, visit houseofnehesipublish.com. Q: What inspired you to start a radio program? A: I have learned a lot of what I know through the radio. I remember that ’79 coup in Grenada, Maurice Bishop coming on Radio Antilles speaking about progressive things. Radio is a way to educate the masses, and I am the greatest student in my program.

MAN OF LETTERS BY MONTAGUE KOBBÉ AND MARIANNE TEFFT

pivotal ﬁgure in the island’s cultural landscape, Shujah Reiph has employed the wisdom of words — both his own and that of others — to cast a light on the history and heritage of St. Maarten/ St. Martin. He was among the founding members of the St. Martin Educational and Cultural Organization, and he also established the Martin Luther King and Black History lecture series (both of which are still running). In 1992, Reiph broadcast his ﬁrst installment of “Conscious Lyrics,” a weekly radio program

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that includes topical discussions as well as music; and he hasn’t missed a show yet. In the past two decades, Reiph’s Conscious Lyrics Foundation has grown beyond the radio program, which airs on SOS Radio, 95.9 FM. He also organizes lectures and writes columns and op-eds for local and regional publications. In 2003, the foundation collaborated with the House of Nehesi Publishers and launched the ﬁrst St. Martin Book Fair. The event has become a writerly jewel. Over a long weekend, the French and Dutch sides of the island

Q: Who is your favorite artist? A: All time? Bob Marley. I love calypso too, though. Q: And in SXM? A: Lasana Sekou and the poetry of Drisana Jack. Also, as an upcoming writer, Faizah/ Rochelle Ward. Q: When you come back from a trip abroad, when do you know you are back home? A: I tell you, when you’re in the plane and you hit Maho, you get a feeling like, “Boy, it’s good to be back.” Every St. Martin person will tell you the same thing. I can’t see myself living anywhere else.

PUPPY LOVE BY MARIANNE TEFFT

ounder of Association I Love My Island Dog and manager of I Love My Island Dog Shelter and the Adoption Center in Orient Beach, St. Martin, Ursula Oppikofer weighs in on the future of the shelter. Q: What brought you to SXM? A: I’m half Norwegian and half French, and I’d been in Paris for 16 years working for different events, such as the Festival du Cinéma Francophone. I came to St. Martin 22 years ago, and I stayed. Q: What prompted you into your current line of work? A: My whole family loves animals — snakes, rats, cats, birds — and I was always an

animal lover. That’s something you have in your blood, or you’ll never have it. Q: What are your proudest moments in St. Martin? A: Starting the I Love My Island Dog association in 2006 and the shelter and adoption center in 2009, and each animal I can rescue — at least one a day. Q: What is the future of the shelter? A: To start, we got a building subsidy and this piece of land from the government, but we depend totally on tourists and local fundraising events. We shelter about 150 dogs a year, and about 15 percent of them are adopted to the United States. We’re open for visits and adoptions from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and it works. Some people come to the island every year, and they stop to see us every day after the beach. People miss their dogs; they come with treats and toys. Q: What one practice would make the greatest difference in the lives of pets? A: Here, there are people from 100 different cultures, and too many people think “nature must do.” For now, we’re the only shelter on the island, and I don’t see an end to this sad passion because people won’t spay and neuter their pets. That’s the most important thing anyone can do. For more information, contact Ursula Oppikofer or Francisco “Tito” Webster at ilovemyislanddog.org.

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Sand &

SURF With 37 gorgeous beachesÂ lining its shores, SXM offers plenty of sand-filled, sun-drenched fun for all beachgoers.

by Tere Figueras Negrete

SXM2015

Beaches

Baie Longue

Beaches

Best Beach for Peace and Quiet:

BAIE LONGUE LOCATION: On the west end of the island in the lowlands, this is the first beach you come across on the French side when traveling from the Dutch side. WHY WE LIKE IT: The island’s longest beach is also one of the quietest. It’s great for a long walk along the shore or a snorkel in the reef-protected waters. GOOD TO KNOW: Although blissfully undeveloped, there are very few amenities. Also, because of its rather secluded location,

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visitors are advised to take all their valuables with them. DON’T MISS: A cocktail at the elegant Belmond La Samanna resort while watching the sun set over the horizon — the perfect way to end the day. Best Beach for People Watching:

GREAT BAY LOCATION: Right in the heart of Philipsburg, Great Bay Beach is lined with bars and restaurants that spill out onto the boardwalk.

Great Bay

WHY WE LIKE IT: You can stretch out on the beach for a great view of the cruise ships coming into port. Or you can turn your chairs around to watch the promenade of tourists and locals as they walk — or in some cases, scoot on their Segways — along the stretch of eateries and shops. GOOD TO KNOW: Need to catch up on e-mails or check in on your social media accounts? Many restaurants and bars will let you access their Wi-Fi if you are a paying customer. And many of these same

places offer beach chair rentals, so you can stretch out under the sun while catching up with all the latest updates. DON’T MISS: Cool off with an iced coffee or a frozen treat at Gelateria Milano. If you duck down the adjacent alleyway, you’ll find a shaded patio area tucked among the white wicker benches and bougainvillea. Lined with potted plants and trees, the sweet spot is also a favorite hangout for the island’s chirpy le sucrier — black-and-yellow sugar birds.

Beaches

Best Beach for Family Fun:

LE GALION BEACH

Maho Bay

Best Beach for Selfies:

MAHO BEACH Be sure to share your Maho selfies with us! Tweet or Instagram your favorites using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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LOCATION: It’s near — like, really near — the Princess Juliana International Airport. WHY WE LIKE IT: Just a few yards from the main runway of the airport, Maho is famous for the low-flying jets that must touch down as close as possible to the beginning of Runway 10 due to its limited length. The jumbo jets swoop in to the delight of beachgoers who scramble to shore to pose for an only-in-SXM photo op. GOOD TO KNOW: Hang on to your hat — and everything else for that matter. The blasts of jet air can be strong, especially if you are standing by the fence surrounding the airport. Posted signs warn that the blasts can cause “physical harm resulting in extreme bodily harm and/or death,” but plenty of thrill seekers hang on to the fence to experience the hurricane-force winds. DON’T MISS: Savvy plane spotters know that timing is everything. Maho’s Sunset Bar & Grill posts the flight schedule on the blackboard near the beachside bar, as well as on their Web site (sunsetsxm.com). And you can always order up a shrimp-topped pizza and an ice-cold beer while you wait.

LOCATION: On the east side of St. Martin, just below Orient Bay, you’ll pass by the popular Butterfly Farm on your way to the beach. WHY WE LIKE IT: The calm, shallow waters are perfect for kids to romp and splash, while older teens and adults take up more adventurous pursuits like windsurfing. This crescent-shaped beach is encircled and protected by a reef, making it an ideal place to learn a new sport. GOOD TO KNOW: The grassy areas just off the sandy shore can often have nettle-like bristles, so make sure you — and especially the little ones — wear sandals. DON’T MISS: Horseback riding. Several companies offer tours on horseback through the nature preserve and along the beach, including Bayside Stables (baysideranch.com), located on the beach’s access road.

Le Galion

“We love that we can come with the kids to Le Galion and it’s not too crowded, and you’re not worried about the surf. And we love the friendly people and beautiful scenery,” – Carrie Welch, Phoenix, Arizona

JET SET

Orient Bay

BY MONTAGUE KOBBÉ

Best Beach for Sports:

ORIENT BAY LOCATION: On the northeast part of the French side, this beach features lovely views of Green Cay and other neighboring islands. WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re looking for adventure on the water, Orient Bay offers everything from water trampolines and banana boats to Jet Skis, parasailing and kitesurfing. GOOD TO KNOW: Although all beaches in St. Martin are public, beachfront establishments often require you to rent a

beach chair if you want to hang out on the sand in front of their eateries. Also, the south end of the beach, in front of Club Orient, is a popular spot for nude sunbathers. DON’T MISS: Although famed for its water sports, Orient Bay is also known for its bustling beach bar scene. Popular places include Kontiki, Kakao and Bikini Beach, where you can order up lunch from your beach chair — or wait until sunset, when the dancing begins, especially during the highseason months.

acationing — the growing addiction of postmodern life — is all about breaking with routine, often by traveling somewhere exotic in search of the extraordinary. Resting, the original purpose of taking a getaway, has long played second fiddle to the search for something unique or at least uncommon. Josef and Jakob Hoflehner set out on the proverbial pilgrimage toward the surreal to experience it and record it. “I don’t think I would have ever visited the island if there wasn’t this beach right next to the runway,” Josef, Jakob’s father, confesses. Maho Beach, the landscape so many locals associate with the explosive joy of homecoming, was the bait that first attracted this pair of Austrian photographers in 2009. Three more visits over the next two years for three weeks at a time resulted in a singular project: Jet Airliner is a warm and candid photographic compendium of jets approaching Princess Juliana International Airport. A daily occurrence (several times a day), these landings served as inspiration for the Hoflehners. Making use of a pair of gloriously antiquated medium format 6x6 Hasselblad SWC cameras, father and son produced a book that is almost as much about the planes as it is about the people who — wittingly or otherwise — find themselves in the middle of a rather bizarre scene.

Beaches

Pinel Island

SHORE THING BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

Grand Case

ooking for more fun in the sun? Here’s a list of a few more local beaches that are worth checking out.

Galisbay Beach: Located right below Fort Louis, there has been a shipwreck at this beach since Hurricane Lenny in 1999.

ST. MARTIN Plum Bay: In the lowlands. This secluded strand is good for snorkeling and it’s also fun for seasoned surfers.

Friar’s Bay Beach: In the northwest of the island. Known in French as Anse des Pères, this family-friendly beach also offers nighttime fun, like the full-moon parties at Kali’s Beach Bar.

Red Bay (Baie Rouge): Near Marigot. Experienced swimmers can try going through the small rock arch. Nettle Bay: Near Marigot. The Caribbean side is rocky, but the palm-shaded beach along Simpson Bay Lagoon is quite pretty. Grand Ilet: In the middle of Simpson Bay Lagoon. Accessible only by boat, this is a great place for a picnic.

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Grand Case Beach: In the heart of Grand Case. This beach is famous for its gourmet restaurants and quaint lolos (beachside food stalls). Children — and many adults, too — get their kicks jumping off the pier. Anse Marcel: In the north of the island. The calm waters off this beach are protected on both sides, making them popular with families. The nearby marina and shops also draw visitors.

“We travel to Guadeloupe, Paris, Brazil, and I can’t wait to come back home. St. Martin is an island where it’s easy to work and easy to live. And the diversity of the people on the island is special.” – Max Bibrac, owner of Max’s Place, a juice and snack bar in Grand Case

Grandes Cayes: Facing Tintamarre Island. The large beach here is popular with those looking to go coral reef diving. Tintamarre Island: Off the northeast coast. The nowuninhabited island is home to the remains of an airstrip, a small railroad track and a cotton plantation. Pinel Island: Just off the east coast. This beach is right in the heart of the nature reserve. Green Cay: Just across Orient Bay. This is a perfectly secluded spot. ST. MAARTEN Dawn Beach: Near the Oyster Pond Marina. A few hotels have recently been constructed on its shores, but this area is otherwise refreshingly undeveloped. Guana Bay: Facing St. Barths. This spot is popular with watersport aﬁcionados. Geneve Bay: It is only accessible via an hour-long hike from Guana Bay.

Little Bay: Separated from Great Bay by Fort Amsterdam. This is a haven for local birds. Cay Bay: Near Little Bay. This cove is particularly popular with hikers and mountain bikers. Pelican Cay: Facing Simpson Bay. In the southwest corner of the island, this spot is popular with tourists. Simpson Bay: This picturesque ﬁshing village is near the Princess Juliana International Airport. Mullet Bay: On the southwest coast. This beach is next to the island’s only golf course. The soft sand and surfer-ready waves make it popular with tourists and locals alike. Cupecoy: On the west. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, this scenic beach lies just outside the French side of the island. Indigo Bay: On the south coast. This peaceful strand is home to the Kokomo beach bar and restaurant.

Indigo Bay

Little Bay

Get Social: Tweet or Instagram your picks for best SXM beach or waterfront hangout using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Island

SIGHTS Now that you have finally made it to paradise, take a look around. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty to do.

by Montague KobbĂŠ

SXM2015

Att ract ions

Butterï¬&#x201A;y Farm

Att ract ions

ou’re on an island, so first and foremost, relax. Go with the flow. There are plenty of places to go, regardless of what you or the other members in your group seek to explore. St. Maarten/St. Martin offers activities and attractions for all visitors, no matter where their interests lie.

HISTORY BUFFS Proudly symbolizing the treaty that in 1648 split the island between the French and the Dutch, the obelisk marking the fluid border is little more than a curiosity; but it might be worth visiting just to hear the legend about the peculiar race that led to the French keeping the larger “half” of the island. A richer heritage is found in Marigot, the capital of French St. Martin, with its

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picturesque Fort Louis quietly overlooking the People’s Market. The fort was built as a defense against invading forces from British Anguilla, after the French were again granted control of their half of the island by the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748. Notice the old prison on the road leading up to the fort. Both the fort and the prison were commissioned by Governor JeanSébastien de Durat (1785–1794), who was also responsible for the building of the stone bridge to Grand Case. For a more pastoral view, Mont Vernon Plantation, on the way to Orient Bay, opens a window to the island’s rural heritage. Tactfully renovated, the plantation provides a glimpse of colonial history and the agrarian economy. The focal point of St. Maarten’s Dutch historical legacy is Philipsburg, the busiest port of call in the Caribbean and the Valhalla

Fort Louis

St. Maarten/St. Martin offers activities and attractions for all visitors, no matter where their interests lie.

Courthouse, Front Street

Att ract ions Cupecoy Beach

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OFF THE GRID BY SOLE SASTRE

Loterie Farm

of duty-free shopping. Front Street’s famous jewelry and fashion boutiques are flanked on one end by the remarkable Methodist church — arguably one of the island’s prettiest buildings — and by the courthouse on the other. Fort Amsterdam in the distance presides over Great Bay from the lip of land that splits it from Little Bay. Although the structure that currently stands in that location dates from 1737, the Dutch first built a fort in that exact same spot in 1631.

NATURE LOVERS The island is defined by the range of hills that rise well over 1,300 feet in the north and center before leading to the lowlands of the south. Pic Paradis is the highest peak on the island, an oasis of uncharacteristically lush vegetation that is often favored by experienced hikers. On the way to Pic Paradis, the Loterie Farm is a beautifully converted plantation that offers anything from the exhilaration of zip-lining to the comforts of a delicious traditional meal. Less conventional is the Butterfly Farm in Le Galion Beach, which, as its name suggests,

features an extraordinary collection of butterflies from around the world.

LOCAL EXPLORER For all the buzz surrounding the island’s nightlife and shopping, its main draw is still its collection of 37 spotless, whitesand beaches. Orient Bay remains the flagship, but if you are looking for a unique experience of seclusion and beauty, Cupecoy Beach is well worth a visit. Alternatively, the offshore reaches of Tintamarre Island, just five miles from St. Martin, offer a rare combination of sublime seascape and rich history. Day trips to the flat cay can be organized through a number of local charters. If you do decide to go, be certain to take comfortable shoes, as a brief but rugged excursion inland can bring you close to the ruins of the estate that belonged to the one-time “King of Tintamare,” D.C. van Romondt. Along the way, you will also come across the wreckage of several planes that at one point formed the fleet of one of the first local airlines in the region: Remy de Haenen’s Compagnie Aerienne Antillaise.

hile the freedom to unplug from your daily routine is part of the allure of an island getaway, sometimes we don’t even get the choice to forgo our smartphones; the connection is just not there. Because hit-or-miss signals are part of life in laid-back, tropical destinations, we’ve compiled a list of apps that will work even when you are far outside the protective bubble of a wireless connection. Just make sure you download them before you head out of your hotel! Pocket is a great free app that allows you to save articles for future reading. Whether that’s an interesting piece on the wildlife at the National Nature Reserve in St. Martin or a shortlist of the best new restaurants in Philipsburg, it can certainly come in handy. The St. Maarten/St. Martin Essential Guide will only set you back $1.99, and in return will provide a wealth of information on local beaches, attractions, dining options, accommodations and more.

Sometimes working ofﬂine can only go so far; when you need a network, WiFi Map is the free app that lets you know exactly where to plug in. Billing itself as the world’s “largest Wi-Fi community,” members have crowdsourced tips on hot-spots and passwords, as well as reviews on the service at various locations. All of these apps are available for both iPhone/iPad and Android.

Step Outside: Try something new and then throw in your two cents using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Natural

HIGH Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re zipping through treetops or soaring above the waves, SXM will set your spirit free.

by Marianne Tefft

SXM2015

A dventures

Le Galion

A dventures

Loterie Farm

hether it’s forever-blue ocean views, swaths of spotless sand, cooking that melds Europe and the Caribbean or entertainment options that blur night and day, the friendly island of St. Maarten/ St. Martin has what it takes to make every visitor smile and say, “Ahhh.” Impressive? Very! But to be truly swept off your feet, you might have to step just outside your comfort zone as you discover our fun-inthe-air attractions.

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DAREDEVIL DISCOVERY At the private LOTERIE FARM nature reserve on Pic Paradis, you can swim, dine, hike or glide through the treetop canopy on one of three adrenaline-boosting adventure courses: Tartan, Fly Zone and the new and improved Fly Zone Extreme, which features more than 20 horizontal and vertical obstacles. Just latch your harness to the cable and prepare for two hours of zip-lining, climbing and hiking at up to 131 feet (40 meters) above ground. loteriefarm.com

FALLING WITH STYLE Is skydiving on your bucket list? Earn that check mark with SXM PARACHUTE in St. Martin. Based at Grand Case Airport, their tandem skydiving experience is just for you, your instructor and a wing-shaped parachute. Enjoy panoramic views as you ascend 10,000 feet above Tintamarre and Anguillaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Scrub Island. Then delight in the thrill of plummeting at speeds of up to 124 mph (200 kph) before you coast to a soft landing. sxmparachute.com

At the private Loterie Farm nature reserve on Pic Paradis, you can swim, dine, hike or glide through the treetop canopy.

A dventures

FREQUENT FLYERS Channel your inner Superman as you “erupt” from the waters of balmy Orient Bay on a flyboard from FLYBOARD ROBERTO SXM. Located at La Playa Watersport, Flyboard Roberto will offer you a 20-minute initiation into the art of flyboarding. With your feet firmly anchored to the board, you’ll be propelled nine feet (three meters) or more from the sea by the exhaust blast of a Jet Ski. After the first tumble, we guarantee you’ll be chortling for more. flyboardrobertosxm.com

FRIENDLY SKIES For those who prefer a more leisurely cruise over land and sea, parasailing with Philipsburg-based NO. 1 SXM WATERSPORTS CENTER may be just right. Find the company right on the beach at 165 Front Street. Then step onto the boat that will pull you and a partner to heights of 400–800 feet above Great Bay. Every 10-minute flight offers spectular panoramic photo opportunities, and higher flights also feature a water touch and a freefall. no1SXM.com

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Le Galion

A dventures

Orient Bay

READY FOR LIFTOFF Thrill seekers looking to fly through the air with the greatest of ease can take off on an extreme flyboard, the latest entry to the island’s watersport offerings. The flyboards are tethered to a small boat that pumps seawater into the attached hose, propelling the contraption — and the person wearing it — skyward. The experience can be decidedly James Bond — or for those less coordinated, Inspector Gadget. But not to worry: With some basic instruction, most people get the hang of the flyboard and embrace their inner rocketeer, if only for an afternoon. jetextreme-stmartin.com; flyboardstmaarten.com

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Tim Wright

SERIOUSLY FUN BY MARIANNE TEFFT

very March, this twonation island takes on a single identity as sailboat central, when more than 200 racing sailboats and 2,500 sailors from over 25 countries descend upon it for the four-day whirlwind known as the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. Founded in 1980 with a mere dozen entries under the aegis of “Serious Fun,” the event has grown exponentially but has never lost track of its founding principle. Sponsored by the Dutch brewer Heineken since 1983, the regatta brings together world-class skippers, water lovers and party hounds for nonstop sea, sun, music and adrenaline.

This year’s race, which takes place from March 5–8, marks the regatta’s 35th anniversary. By day, round-the-island competition has the ﬂeet racing from Simpson Bay to Marigot and on to Philipsburg before returning to Simpson Bay once again. The exhilarating days turn into chill nights, as a number of parties spring up under the stars at Port de Plaisance, the Marigot waterfront and Philipburg’s boardwalk. On Sunday night, the regatta wraps up with a blowout concert on the seaside stage at Kim Sha Beach in Simpson Bay for locals

and visitors to enjoy. Featured performers have included international superstars such as The Black Eyed Peas, Carimi, Wyclef Jean and Maxi Priest. For a front-row view of the action, grab a seat on a party boat in Simpson Bay or Marigot. If you would rather be on land, simply ﬁnd a hillside vantage point where you can see the ﬂeet set sail each morning. Regatta parties are open to the public, and yes, they are indeed seriously fun. Visit heinekenregatta.com for more information on the event.

A dventures

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Colombier Centre Equestre The equestrian center, afﬁliated with the FFE (Fédération Française d’Equitation), offers trail rides, lessons for adults and children and pony rides for visitors as young as 3 years old. The center also serves as a training ground for the island’s best riders, who have racked up awards at international equestrian competitions. The center is located in the hilly Colombier region in the interior of the island, near Pic Paradis and Loterie Farm. Rue de Colombier Tel: 590.690.61.08.97 Web: facebook.com/ ColombierCentreEquestre

HAPPY TRAILS BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

inston Churchill famously said that “no hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle.” Make the most of your time in St. Maarten/St. Martin by experiencing the island on horseback. Offerings on both the Dutch and French side are designed to indulge your inner equestrian. Lucky Stables Located inside Seaside Nature Park, on the Dutch side, the stable offers horseback tours on trails through rolling hills, along the shore — and even into the water astride your horse. The park is located in Caybay, just past the industrial area (though that shouldn’t deter you, as

the scenery inside the park is quite picturesque). The horses are rotated into service and are given free rein of the park during their off days, according the park’s Web site. Be sure to ask about the sunset rides, which end with a glass of Champagne and a marshmallow roast around a bonﬁre. You don’t have to be on horseback to enjoy the park, of course. Visitors can feed the roaming horses treats like carrots or apples, and the park is also home to a multitude of other animals such as rabbits, miniature horses, goats and peacocks. Caybay Road #64 Tel: 721.544.5255 / 721.526.5238 Email: info@seasidenaturepark.com Web: seasidenaturepark.com

Bayside Riding Club Ranch Located on the access road to Le Galion Beach, on the French side, the Bayside Riding Club offers a tour of the National Nature Reserve, including a ride down the white-sand beaches. The stables are next to the Butterﬂy Farm and a short hop from the bars and restaurants of Orient Beach. The nature reserve on the east side of the island is a noted haven for the island’s fauna, including iguanas, sea turtles and mongoose. The horseback tours also give riders a glimpse of the protected mangrove swamps, which host a thriving ecosystem for the local ﬁsh, crustaceans and other wildlife. Riders have an opportunity for a bareback dip in the ocean atop their horses, so be sure to bring clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. Cadet Cotton Baie de L’Embouchure Tel: 590.690.62.36.18 (French side) Tel: 721.581.0206 (Dutch side) Email: baysidesxm@hotmail.com Web: baysideranch.com

Be a Daredevil: Show off your adventurous nature. Post your best action shots using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM!

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Day

TRIP A number of nearby islands ensure that endless adventure is just a short trip away.

by Tere Figueras Negrete

SXM2015

Island Hopping

PRICKLY PE AR CAYS

ANGUILL A

Mar igold F RENCH SIDE

ST. MARTIN DU TCH SIDE

ST. MA ARTEN O yster Pond

Philipsburg Ph

SABA ST. BARTHS

ST. EUSTATIUS

Island Hopping

ST. BARTHS ISLAND INFO: Located a mere 11 miles southeast of St. Martin, this 10-mile French island is officially called St. Barthélemy and is unofficially known as the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean.” KNOWN FOR: Serving as a playground for the jet-setters, celebrities and tycoons that frequent its chic eateries and luxury boutiques — including Hermès and Cartier. DON’T FORGET: Your wallet! St. Barths has rightfully earned a reputation for being a pricey destination. GOOD TO KNOW: Most shops are only open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays and are closed for a two-hour lunch break on weekdays, as well as all of Sunday. Need a good place to spend the free time? Head to the shell museum in Corossol, where 187

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varieties of Caribbean shells and specimens from across the globe are on display. HOW TO GET THERE: The Voyager ferry departs from either Marigot (one-hour crossing time) or Oyster Pond (30-minute crossing time) regularly. The Great Bay Express offers ferry service from Philipsburg.

SABA ISLAND INFO: The smallest special municipality in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Saba is roughly five square miles in size. KNOWN FOR: Being a diver’s paradise. More than 150 species of fish have been found in Saba’s waters, which are also home to the pinnacle of dive sites: underwater towers of volcanic rock. These are created when magma pushes through the sea floor.

St. Barths

DON’T FORGET: A good pair of hiking shoes. Mount Scenery is the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, hence its name. It is also home to one of the last known elﬁn rain forests in the world. GOOD TO KNOW: Since 1991 the Saba Conservation Foundation has operated a hyperbaric chamber for diving emergencies. HOW TO GET THERE: Take the hour-long boat trip on The Edge or Dawn II, or fly into Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, where the steep landing is a thrill in itself.

ST. EUSTATIUS ISLAND INFO: This saddle-shaped island, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and known affectionately to the locals as “Statia,” is home to a dormant volcano: the Quill (from the Dutch word kuil, meaning “pit”).

KNOWN FOR: Its unspoiled beauty. Hikers can tackle the trail to the top of the 1,968-foot crater of the Quill, while divers can explore the coral reefs and numerous shipwrecks off the island’s coast. DON’T FORGET: To say hello! Statians pride themselves on their friendly demeanor. Don’t be surprised if the locals wave or honk their car horns as they pass by. GOOD TO KNOW: The island was the first nation to formally recognize U.S. independence in 1776, when the cannons of Fort Oranje acknowledged the American warship Andrew Doria — which was flying the new country’s flag — with an 11-gun salute. HOW TO GET THERE: Winair operates five daily flights from St. Maarten. Flight time is approximately 20 minutes. There is also regular ferry service aboard the Voyager One.

Island Hopping

Anguilla

ANGUILLA

PRICKLY PEAR CAYS

ISLAND INFO: A 35-square-mile British Overseas Territory (thus English is spoken and vehicles are driven on the left side of the road), it’s the northern-most island in the leeward chain. KNOWN FOR: A string of pristine beaches, as well as a range of dining options and water sports, including windsurﬁng, parasailing, scuba diving and, of course, sailing — the national sport. DON’T FORGET: Your bathing suit. The powdery white sands of Anguilla’s Meads Bay and Shoal Bay beaches are not to be missed. You should also check out Cheddie’s Carving Studio. This master wood-carver turns driftwood into striking sculptural pieces at his studio along the West End’s main road, near the turnoff to Cove Bay. GOOD TO KNOW: All of Anguilla’s beaches are open to the public. HOW TO GET THERE: Ferries leave Marigot every 30 minutes, and the crossing is convenient and relatively inexpensive.

ISLAND INFO: This small pair of cays are part of the British Virgin Islands, and they lie about six miles from Anguilla. A narrow boat channel divides Prickly Pear East from Prickly Pear West. KNOWN FOR: Being completely uninhabited. There are two restaurants and a bar which are serviced by staff who travel to and from the islands every day. DON’T FORGET: The sunscreen. Prickly Pear’s sandy shore and shallow waters are perfect for a day at the beach — especially for families with younger children. GOOD TO KNOW: Nesting seabirds are a common sight along the rocky coastline, and canaries and finches have been known to eat out of visitors’ hands. HOW TO GET THERE: Head to Sandy Ground in Anguilla and then take the six-mile boat ride. Snorkeling, diving and day-trip tour boats leave daily.

Dare to Explore: Record your journey and offer your insight using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Art &

SOUL

Local artists and musicians capture the essence of the friendly island.

by Montague KobbĂŠ

SXM2015

Arts & Culture

Manuel Diego

Ras Mosera

Arts & Culture

Antoine Chapon

THEODORE BONEV Perhaps the island’s most recognizable work of art is Theodore Bonev’s Lady Liberty statue, unveiled in 2007 on the Agrément roundabout in Marigot. Born in Bulgaria, Bonev studied Fine Arts in Sofia before traveling to St. Martin — more out of coincidence than with any true intent. An adoptive son of the island for more than 25 years, he primarily works as a sculptor in stone and bronze, though his watercolors and drawings are also on display at the Tropismes Gallery in Grand Case.

LADY RUBY BUTE More than a painter, Lady Ruby is the local raconteur extraordinaire who exploits all

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modes of expression to chronicle the island’s culture. Born in Aruba to St. Martin parents in 1943, she has been living on the island since the 1970s. Quaint, vivacious and deeply narrative, her paintings evoke memories of days past and are displayed at her Silk Cotton Grove Art Gallery in Friar’s Bay.

ANTOINE CHAPON When Chapon arrived in St. Martin in 1983, he was a photographer, not a painter. Born in Bordeaux, France, in 1952, he organized his first exhibition in 1990 and has been working since 1995 from his beautiful Cul de Sac home, where he also exhibits his pieces. Over the last two decades Chapon has cemented his reputation as one of the most

J. Kevin Foltz

Sir Roland Richardson

PENCIL IT IN BY CHRISTINE BORGES

t. Maarten/St. Martin has plenty of arts-related activities to keep you busy year-round. January s St. Martin Carnival s Harmony Nights February s St. Martin Carnival s Arrowroot Festival s Harmony Nights s We Agree with Culture March s Art Lovers Open Doors s Harmony Nights

lyrically soothing and aesthetically pleasant creators in the region.

FRANCIS ECK A trained teacher in physical education, Eck was born in the Alsatian town of Dannemarie, France, in 1949. He came to the Caribbean via St. Barths and Guadeloupe in the mid-1980s and finally settled in St. Martin, where he is based much of the year. Rich textures, colorful scenes and the marriage of the figurative and abstract tend to characterize his paintings. His home/ gallery at 47-2 Les Jardins d’Orient Bay can be visited by appointment. Otherwise his work is on display at the Bistro Nu and Mario’s Bistro in Marigot and at Bistro

April s St. Maarten Carnival May s St. Maarten Carnival s Festival of Laughter s EcoTourism Days s Fête du Nautisme s QuickSilver King of the Groms June s 13th Annual St. Maarten Book Fair s Summer Heat Music Festival s Laugh Till Belly Burst Festival

July s Fête de Victor Schœlcher à Grand Case, St. Martin s St. Martin Caribbean Festival s St. Maarten/St. Martin Summer Fest s St. Martin Open-Air Film Festival s Colombier Day August s Sandy Ground Village Celebration Day s August Film Festival s Summer Vybz Festival September s St. Martin Open-Air Film Festival s Artists’ Corner Opening s Patrimony Day Weekend October s Soup Festival s Antillean Day November s Miss Caraïbes Hibiscus Pageant s Art Lovers Exhibition s Beaujolais Nouveau December s Miss Caraïbes Hibiscus Pageant s Pan in Paradise — Steel Pan Festival s Maison du Père Noël s Réveillon de la Saint Sylvestre

Theodore Bonev

Lady Ruby Bute

Caraïbes, La Villa Restaurant and Restaurant Le Soleil in Grand Case.

CYNRIC GRIFFITH “Griff,” as he is commonly known, was born in St. Kitts but came to St. Martin in the late 1950s. Though he graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in New York in 1972, he has been exhibiting his art since 1955. A singular portraitist and landscapist, his work is sober and attentive, relying not so much on color as in mood to convey meaning. In 2013 he was awarded the Culture Prize by the Prince Bernard Culture Fund. His paintings can be seen at the Art Line Framers Gallery in Cole Bay.

RAS MOSERA Born in St. Lucia in 1955, Ras Mosera is an eclectic artist and musician who taught himself painting as a means to earn a living. In the process he has become one of the

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Courtesy of Ruby Bute

Arts & Culture

most respected and distinctive painters on the island. Complex compositions caught halfway between the lushness of the Caribbean and the intensity of expressionism can be admired at his own Axum Art Café in Philipsburg.

SIR ROLAND RICHARDSON The word “art” in St. Martin is synonymous with the name Roland Richardson. The maestro of outdoor painting is a true native son, with his family’s Caribbean roots dating back more than 200 years. Born in 1944, he has been cultivating his colorful impressionistic style for more than 45 years. He was knighted for his artistic contributions by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands in 2007, and his work is aptly displayed in a gallery/museum that’s housed within an absolutely stunning historical 18th-century building located at #6 Rue de la République in Marigot.

A MIGHTY TALENT BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

sidore York holds the sound of the island in his hands. Known as the “Might Dow,” York is not only passionate about the sounds he creates but devoted to preserving the musical culture of his native land. His instrument of choice: the steel pan, with which he conjures up the quintessential music of the island with the wondrous ease of a magician. A recipient of a Lifetime Achievement/Hall of Fame Award from the International Reggae and World Music Awards

(IRAWMA), York’s career took off in the 1980s with his ﬁrst hit, “St. Maarten Rumba.” York is actually steel pan royalty. His father, Chester York, is a famous steel pan musician in his own right. The family tradition carries on with the Mighty Dows’ children as well. He worked with his sons Erno York (known as Young Dow) and Jabari York on his song, “You Make Me Feel So,” released in 2014. The Mighty Dow’s commitment to the next generation of steel pan musicians extends well beyond his immediate family. York, who

performs with the Ebony Steel Orchestra, also founded Dow’s Musical Foundation. The foundation, created in 2005, is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of local music. Thanks to its programs, hundreds of children have learned the art of the steel pan through activities such as a popular summer steel pan workshop and annual recitals. To ﬁnd out more about Dow’s Musical Foundation and see videos of the the Mighty Dow performing, visit the organization’s Facebook page.

Be Artsy: Discover fantastic artwork around town and inspire others to follow suit, using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Going

GLOBAL Flavors from around the globe combine to give the island its unique flair.

by Lucinda Frye

SXM2015

Eat & Drink

Zee Best

Eat & Drink

Courtesy of L’Estaminet

L’Estaminet

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lobal cuisine in the smallest dual nation island in the Caribbean takes on a special character. Numerous international eateries offer everything from full-on American and typical Continental breakfasts to mid-morning teas (with French pastries and cakes) and Dutch luncheons (bitterballe and satays). Mid-afternoon Italian ice cream, a happy hour margarita and to-die-for dinners will have you savoring St. Maarten/ St. Martin throughout your stay.

Early birds can sip on fresh coffee, read their newspapers and then take French artisanal pastries back to sleepy loved ones. The almond croissant is sublime — an excellent way to start a perfect Caribbean day. Stop off at Zee Best on the Airport Road and pick up a picnic — soups, salads and sandwiches are just some of the delights on the menu. Plaza del Lago, Simpson Bay Princess Casino, Port de Plaisance Tel: 721.526.3097 Web: zeebestrestaurant.com

Whether you go to ZEE BEST for breakfast or lunch, you can’t go wrong at this delightful establishment. Enjoying fresh juice with eggs Benedict or any other great option on the menu has long been a favorite pasttime for visitors and locals.

Offering one of the most exquisite menus on either side of the island, L’ESTAMINET is situated in a charming cottage on the main street of what is considered to be the gourmet capital of the Caribbean. The fanciful goat cheese mousse starter with a

Eat & Drink

Byblos Lounge

Byblos Lounge is a tapas/mezze bar that offers good food, good music and a fun atmosphere.

Basilico International

small squirt bottle of pesto is a must-try. The setting is restful and refined, and the menu is not overwhelming, with a decent wine list. The shot served at the end of the meal is a heavenly send-off. This is top-class dining. 139 Boulevard de Grand Case Tel: 590.29.00.25 A great Lebanese tapas/mezze bar that offers good food, good music and a fun atmosphere, BYBLOS LOUNGE is all about authentic home cooking made to order by the owner/chef, who’s kebabs are particularly worth trying. The lounge also offers a hookah/

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shisha, as well as live belly dancing on Friday evenings for a true Middle Eastern vibe. Simpson Bay Yacht Club Marina Tel: 721.587.1732 Web: Byblossxm.com If you are craving Italian fare with an American twist, try BASILICO INTERNATIONAL. Seating — both indoors and out — is a draw that many cannot resist. The glass-fronted wine cellar is a pleasure to admire while dining. The thoughtful menu offers interesting flavor combinations — think: lobster with mango sauce, followed by

Eat & Drink

EAT LIKE A LOCAL BY LUCINDA FRYE

a platter of assorted Italian cheeses. Being located within the Atlantis World Casino complex provides an added dimension, as visitors can enjoy a stand-out dining experience followed by high-stakes games. Atlantis World Casino, Cupecoy Tel: 721.550.7779 Web: facebook.com/basilico.international The entire experience at KONTIKI BEACH BAR AND RESTAURANT — from the outdoor lounge seating and delicious meals to the drinks at the bar, sitting on swings — brings a European Riviera feel right to the Caribbean. The big difference here is that the air is as consistently warm as the sea. Try the carpaccio with mesclun salad; the dressing is perfect. The elixir of passion fruit they offer at the end of the meal makes it worth returning. Orient Bay Beach Tel: 590.690.74.27.11 Web: lekontiki.com At JIMBO’S ROCK & BLUES CAFÉ, you’ll experience open-air Tex-Mex dining in an atmosphere that is awesomely tropical. The food is delicious and the portions are substantial. Be sure to try the fajitas. Drinks are served in handblown Mexican glassware. You can’t go wrong ordering a jug of their fantastic margaritas. Imported peppers from New Mexico are used in the homemade sauces and marinades. The restaurant is kidfriendly, and vegetarians are welcome, too. Plaza del Lago, Simpson Bay Tel: 214.717.4284 Web: jimboscafe.com

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Ital Shack Freedom Fighters The warm welcome and simple wholesome vegetarian menu of the day epitomize this authentic mom, pop and son local eatery. The steep hill behind the establishment is where they grow as much of the food as they can. Stop in for lunch at this wonderful restaurant painted in Rasta colors. Bush Road #7, Philipsburg Tel: 721.542.0055

Aglio e Olio A home-built wood-burning oven produces authentic tasty fare that calls to mind the Puglia region of Southern Italy. Almost everything on the menu is cooked in this oven. This corner eatery is near the pharmacy

on the main road leading out of Grand Case. Try their homemade ice cream. Rue Franklin Lauren, Grand Case Tel: 590.690.51.66.54

Quality Snacks Great Guyanese/Caribbean food is found at this very local establishment, which specializes in perfect takeout picnic fare. The food displayed in a glass countertop offers numerous dishes, including stews — meat, ﬁsh and chicken; a number of salads like potato, curry chickpea and lentils; and even barbecued meats. The Scotch egg wannabes (boiled eggs in a casing of mashed cassava) are quite unique. Try the excellent chicken rotis — no other version can compare. Pondﬁll #81, Philipsburg Tel: 721.554.7034

Aglio e Olio

Lucinda Frye

Kontiki Beach Bar and Restaurant

ood food at very reasonable prices is available from a number of different venues.

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Eat & Drink

MODERN TRADITIONS BY LANNIG STERVINOU

hef and owner of Le Pressoir, Franck Mear, adds Creole and Caribbean inﬂuences to traditional French cuisine. Q: What made you decide to make your way to St. Martin? A: I wanted to come and work under the sun while in France for visa issues but also to have the feeling of being in a foreign country. St. Martin was the perfect place for me. Its exceptional situation with two countries on the same territory

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intrigued me. And also my cousin lived here before. Q: Did you already have in mind St. Martin, and were you aware especially of Grand Case’s reputation in the Caribbean for French cuisine? A: Not really. I had heard a bit about Grand Case’s restaurants, but I was far from imagining they would be of such good quality. Q: Did you open your restaurant when you arrived? A: The restaurant existed since

1995 and was already well known. I worked here ﬁrst as an employee. Then I partnered with the former owner in 2005, and ﬁnally in 2010 my wife and I bought the restaurant. Q: Does the Creole house where the restaurant is established have a history? A: It was built in 1871. It’s now one of the oldest on the island. Everything is original. If wood is well maintained, it lasts a long time. I do it following the traditional way, either for painting

or construction work. I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change a beam. I will remove it, repair it [and] then put it back.

who want to eat typically French cuisine but like to be surprised by some different ďŹ&#x201A;avors.

Q: How would you describe your cuisine? A: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional French cuisine with a Creole touch. I will lay emphasis on this more this year. I like to work on the old traditional French recipes, adding a fruit or spices from here. I try to cook more and more with regional products. This is my green side coming back. Why buy products in Japan while there are plenty of interesting ones here that nobody uses anymore? Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about sapodilla for example; no one cooks this fruit on the island. Everybody puts it in the trash. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the same for the mangoes. There are plenty of them on the side of the road, and people drive over them.

Q: What are your signature dishes? A: Beef tenderloin with Camembert is a classic I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remove from the menu. The scallops rosette with mango is also one of the favorites. However, I like to change from the classical recipes. For example, I cook the frogs, but differently. I cook them at low temperatures. I like to cook iconic products but in a modern way. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like the snails; the dish is typically French, but rather than cooking them with garlic butter, I do it differently.

Q:Your customers come for the French traditional cuisine then? A: Right. We have customers

Q: Do you make an effort to use seasonal produce? A: Of course I do. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difďŹ cult to make people understand that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have strawberries for Christmas because now you

ďŹ nd anything anytime. But those winter strawberriesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they have no taste! In winter, I suggest the white trufďŹ&#x201A;e in a special menu, for example. I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to follow the seasons, although here, they are not the same as in France. For the ďŹ sh, I prefer to work with local ďŹ shermen â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or at least from the area. I cook the wild shrimp from Guyana or the ouassou from Guadeloupe. Q: Your wine list seems impressive, too. A: Yes, we are among the only ones to offer wines of Domaine de la RomanĂŠe-Conti. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often the rarity that dictates the price. We have, for example, a client who comes every year to drink his white Montrachet wine for 5,000 euros a bottle. But we can propose much more affordable wines from small producers who are really good also.

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Eat & Drink

before the island became a tourist destination. These days, visitors can find guavaberry liqueur right on Philipsurg’s Front Street at the Guavaberry Emporium, which occupies a historic white-and-red building. There, you can sample the traditional guavaberry, try flavored versions such as Vaanilla, Island Almond, Passion Fruit and Mango and also sample the company’s top-shelf Republic Rum. Once you’ve taken your bottle home, you can concoct a few cocktails for a taste of SXM. The following recipes are all from the guavaberry.com site.

Lime Kir Ingredients: s 1 ounce Wild Lime Liqueur s 5 ounces Champagne

A TASTE OF TRADITION BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

ooking for an authentic — and portable — expression of the island’s unique culinary character? While both St. Maarten and St. Martin have certainly been influenced by international food and drink traditions, the island’s guavaberry trees offer a distinct opportunity to experience a libation liberally steeped in local history. Sometimes known as rumberry, the scientiﬁc name for guavaberry is Myrciaria ﬂoribunda. The trees, which can grow up to 60 feet high, should

not be confused with those of the popular guava fruit. When in bloom, they are awash with small pink and white flowers, which later bear the guavaberry fruit — smaller than cherries and either dark orange, dark red or black. While the trees can be found throughout the Caribbean, Latin America and as far away as the Philippines, the fruit has a storied past on this island in particular. Homemade versions of its namesake liqueur became the traditional drink of Christmas celebrations long

Eat Up: Tempt family, friends and followers with virtual samples using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Directions: Pour pre-chilled SM Wild Lime Liqueur into a frozen Champagne glass. Top with chilled Champagne. Dress with a small curl of orange skin.

Maho Reefer Ingredients: s 2 ounces Island Almond Liqueur s 2 ounces fresh orange juice s 3 ounces cranberry juice s 1 lime, quartered Directions: Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour into a high ball glass. Squeeze the lime and drop into the glass. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Guavaberry Sunrise

Ingredients: s 2 ounces Guavaberry Liqueur s 2 ounces grapefruit juice s 2 ounces orange juice s ½ ounce grenadine s 1 cinnamon stick

Directions: Fill a tall glass with ice and then pour the Guavaberry Liqueur. Add fresh grapefruit and orange juice. Carefully pour in the grenadine. Garnish with grapefruit and orange slices and ﬂowers. Grate cinnamon on top.

Shark Dancer

Oranjestad Margarita

Ingredients: s 2 ounces Republic Rum s 5 ounces pomegranate juice s fresh basil leaves s 1 lime, quartered s 1 teaspoon sugar s ice

Ingredients: s 1 ounce SM Oranjestad Rum Liqueur s 1 ounce tequila s 1 ounce lime juice s 1 ripe orange s ice

Directions: Muddle three quarters of sweet local lime, three basil leaves and sugar in a high ball glass. Add ice and Republic Rum. Fill with pomegranate juice, stir and garnish with a lime wedge and a basil leaf.

Directions: Muddle three orange sections with ice. Add tequila, Oranjestad Rum Liqueur, half the lime juice and shake well. Use salt-rimmed glass. This drink can also be made in the blender. Garnish with lime.

Vaanilla Banada

Ingredients: s 2 ounces Vaanilla Rum Liqueur s 1 ounce coconut cream s 3 ounces pineapple juice or pieces s ½ chopped banana s ice s toasted coconut s nutmeg

Vaanilla Banada Recipes from guavaberry.com.

Directions: In a blender, put ice, Vaanilla Rum Liqueur, cream of coconut, chopped banana and pineapple pieces or juice. Blend well and serve. Garnish with pineapple, toasted coconut and fresh nutmeg.

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Electric

NIGHTS Revel in the never-ending Caribbean party that takes place on this island.

by Alita Singh

SXM2015

Night life

Tantra

Night life

Skybeach

ith nighttime options ranging from salsa dancing and live music to rooftop cocktails and chic beachside lounges, there’s plenty to choose from on this island. Here’s our seven-day plan for a week’s worth of nighttime entertainment.

WEDNESDAYS ARE FOR THE LADIES

Who says Mondays are no fun? Definitely not the folks at The Red Piano in Pelican Key, Simpson Bay. “Church on Mondays” gets the bar rocking with classic tunes from the 1970s through the 1990s. The rest of the week a talented pianist tickles the ivories and belts out tunes.

Ladies typically have the run of the island on Wednesdays. Several clubs and bars offer Ladies Night specials that run the gamut from featured cocktails to theme parties. Head to Skybeach Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Maho for a night of great music and all-night drink specials under the stars. Privé Hookah & Sky Lounge in Simpson Bay also offers nightly theme parties, drink specials and quick bites that can satisfy anyone’s appetite.

LATIN TUESDAYS

LOCO THURSDAYS

La Bamba Beach Bar on Kim Sha Beach in Simpson Bay is the place to perfect your

Calmos Café in the quaint village of Grand Case is famous for its cuisine and for

MELLOW MONDAYS

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salsa moves under the moonlight with a backdrop of rolling waves. The bar is also open throughout the week for more beachside fun.

IN IT TO WIN IT incredible live salsa on Thursday nights. Dubbed “Loco Salsa” night, the café right on the beach comes alive with sizzling sounds and beautiful people. If you get hooked on the vibe at Calmos, head back on Sunday for more live music and fun during “Sunset Reggae.”

FREAKY FRIDAYS Fridays are no-holds-barred nights throughout SXM. There is a party in every corner, bar, restaurant and nightclub. Your biggest challenge is choosing which one will suit your desire. The best option is to party hop through Simpson Bay and Maho. A must-stop spot is the Soggy Dollar Bar in Palapa Marina. What started out as an unassuming yacht crew bar is now one of the most happening party spots on the island and a great place to mingle with the locals.

SWELTERING SATURDAYS Like Fridays, Saturdays have a lot to offer, starting from early in the afternoon and continuing way into the wee hours of the following morning. The party can start on one of the island’s fabulous beaches and graduate to a nightclub, bar or world-famous restaurant. If you are looking for a true nightclub experience, Tantra in Maho Village features two-for-one drinks along with one of the island’s rocking DJs or one of several rotating international guest DJs.

BY SOLE SASTRE

hose looking for a highstakes evening of European gaming in a tropical setting have hit the jackpot. SXM is home to a range of casinos, each with a distinct ambience and set of offerings. Whether you are hitting the tables for some blackjack, roulette or craps, trying your luck at the slot machines or heading to the private gaming rooms with the well-heeled clientele, the casinos on the island are open to everyone — as long as you are 18 or over, of course. Here is a short guide to gaming in SXM: Casino Royale: Located in Maho Bay, this is the largest casino in St. Maarten. It has hosted the World Poker Tour and is also the place to watch and play any number of poker tournaments held there every week, including the Caribbean Poker Tour and the Casino Royale Texas Hold ’em Invitational Tournament. Atlantis World Casino: Head to the tables for various forms of

poker — including Texas Hold ’em and Caribbean — play roulette or try one of the more than 400 slot machines at this nautically themed casino. Plasma screens playing a number of sports will have you on the edge of your seat as you place your bets on any of the matches or races in their extensive sports book. Princess Casino: You can stay where you play at the Port de Plaisance Resort & Casino. Here, the main attraction may be the 25,000 square feet of gaming; but the country club, spa, gym, sporting grounds and four restaurants won’t hamper your experience. Diamond Casino: Right on Front Street in Philipsburg, the Diamond is in the middle of all the action. It features more than 140 slot machines and seven tables for games that range from blackjack and roulette to Caribbean poker.

SUPER SUNDAYS Orient Bay Beach on the French side is the place to be on Sundays. Start the festivities off with brunch at any of the top-rated beachside restaurants and stay for the live music and popping DJs. Kontiki, with its chic outdoor lounge area just a few paces from the shore, is a great place for a romantic interlude. Check out their trademark swings, which allow for a much more relaxing perch than your standard barstool. Another muststop spot is Palm Beach restaurant and bar. This trendy spot has everything for the perfect beach party all day long. And, should it get too hot to handle, the cool waters of Orient Bay are just steps away.

Night life

REGGAE MAN BY LANNIG STERVINOU

ocal reggae musician Ras Biko reﬂects on how music has shaped his life.

Q: How did you become a reggae singer? A: I was born in Dominica. I’m Rastafarian. Music, and especially reggae music, were part of me since I was a kid. In 1999, I left for Guadeloupe. With a couple of friends we formed a band named Crucial Family. For 10 years we performed in concerts there and, step by step, we became more and more famous. I worked with well-known artists such

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as Dominik Coco, Sugar Moss and Jah Mino. But it was really Swadjah, the bassist, who taught me music. He made me the musician I am today. Q: Why did you decide to come to St. Martin? A: There was a general strike in Guadeloupe in 2009. There were no more jobs, less and less money. And the music was not enough to put food on the table. I had to do something. I heard that, in St. Martin, there were job opportunities; so I came here with my family and it worked. I

found a job, and I found people to make music with. Q: Describe the kind of music you like. A: I listen to a little bit of everything, but I love reggae for its values. It is an authentic, real music with a lot of sense. This is music that can help others. I make music for sharing thoughts and love. Q: Do you think you could play other kinds of music? A: Music is music. For me it’s the message that’s important. I play

reggae because I feel that’s what I do best. But I’m ready to sing R&B or rock, if I have the opportunity and if I can.

make people know more about Carry On. It is a very important album for me. It’s the music that I love to do.

Q: Who are your greatest inﬂuences? A: I am very inﬂuenced by the classics like Morgan Heritage or Third World.

Q: Do you perform at live concerts on the island? A: I have not booked any dates with the different places where there is live music for the coming season. But I can already say that we will give a concert every Friday night at Satchey’s in French Cul de Sac. There are six musicians in the band. I sing and play piano. But at our shows, there are guests passing by who like to play with us. It’s a family spirit.

Q: What are you currently working on? A: My last studio album Carry On was released [a] few months ago. With my group Uprising Band, we are already working on new songs. But before releasing new songs, I want to

Q: Where on the island can we buy your latest album? A: At Satchey’s in Cul de Sac, but also at Saadji’s in Low Town, Marigot. Q: Do you plan to stay in St. Martin for the rest of your life? A: I won’t. Although I think it’s the perfect place to mix business with music, I feel a little bit cramped. It is a small island anyway. For now, I do not plan to leave for good, but with the group, we have the desire to do more concerts in the rest of the Caribbean.

Q: What are your plans for the future? A: We went to Guadeloupe in July with the group and did some concerts there. We have been contacted again for other concerts there this winter [2014]. That’s what we try to do now. We have possibilities to play music in festivals in France, too. As soon as we have the opportunity, we leave. And then there are the new songs we are working on. I try this time to add different musical touches, like a little bit of rock with the use of an electric guitar, for example.

Up All Night: Let everyone know where the party’s at using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Retail

THERAPY Shop at our boutiques and malls to get a hold of some of the best buys in the Caribbean.

by Lucinda Frye

SXM2015

Shopping

Nataly Dannenberg

The Art Box Gallery

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Shopping

Ma Doudou

he unbelievable range of duty-free items available to the discerning shopper throughout St. Maarten/St. Martin is an incredible incentive to give in to a great bargain or pick up that special something you have had your eye on for some time. From jewelry, cosmetics, designer clothing and high-end leather goods to locally made crafts, liquor and electronics, retail therapy has never felt quite so good.

AMSTERDAM CHEESE & LIQUOR STORE Given St. Maartenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong Dutch influence, a wheel of genuine Dutch

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cheese makes a great gift. You will also find a selection of cheese-related items, as well as other small gifts. J.E. Yrausquin Blvd. #26, Pointe Blanche Tel: 721.543.7161 Web: facebook.com/acssxm

THE ART BOX GALLERY Beautiful pieces made on the island make for the perfect mementos and gifts. Pearls, leather, silver and gold are crafted into unique, easy-to-wear jewelry and elegant home decorations, paintings and exquisite objets dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;art. 28 Otter Road, Belair Tel: 721.543.0866 Web: theartboxsxm.com

Woo your loved ones with a selection of tasty morsels from the Belgian Chocolate Box.

BELGIAN CHOCOLATE BOX

DUTCH DELFT BLUE GALLERY

Seventy-five different chocolate flavors are made fresh daily right on the premises from the best Belgian chocolates and other fine ingredients. Woo your loved ones with a selection of these tasty morsels. 109 Old Street, Philipsburg Tel: 721.542.8863 Web: thebelgianchocolatebox.com

The only licensed dealer of Royal Porceleyne Fles outside of the Netherlands offers a collection of blue-and-white pottery that is unmatched. In addition to the expected pieces, the store also carries the Japanese Delft Imari and the multicolor Delft Polychrome. 37 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: 721.542.5204

BLUE MALL Blending the openness of island lifestyle with a wide array of well-known products and services, you can enjoy a unique shopping experience within the largest mall in the northeast Caribbean. 162 Rhine Road, Cupecoy Tel: 721.545.2418 Web: bluemallsxm.com

GUAVABERRY EMPORIUM Tantalize your guests with the essence of the island when you offer them a taste of guavaberry rum. This aged liqueur — which boasts a flavor all its own — is made from berries grown in the hills and has a storied relationship with island celebrations. If you’re looking for a little spice to add to your cuisine, that’s also on offer at this shop, whose hot sauces range from jerk and jalapeño to GB BBQ and Creole chipotle. 8–10 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: 721.542.2965 Web: guavaberry.com

JEWELS BY LOVE

Jewels By Love

Treat your loved one to a brand-name Swiss watch. The world’s most prestigious and exclusive watchmakers have granted Jewels by Love an Official Agent Status. If exquisite handcrafted diamond jewelry is at the top of your list, this is where you will find it; they specialize in idealcut GIA-certified diamonds. The present owners of Jewels by Love stores are the fifth and sixth generation of an illustrious

Shopping

line of jewelers and diamond mavens with roots that date back to the 1800s. Thanks to consistent standards, their name has become the benchmark for quality, prestige, integrity and value. 69B Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: 917.546.0902 Web: jewelsbylove.com

LE GRAND MARCHÉ Want to take home something that’s distinctly Dutch? A bottle of the Conimex brand soy sauce is perfect for marinating before roasting or barbecuing. A bottle of Kecap Manis, can also add a sweet dimension to your meat or fish when you are looking for a special flavor. Union Road #53, Cole Bay Tel: 721.544.3118 Web: legrandmarche.net

LE WEST INDIES Set right in the rock of Fort Louis Hill overlooking Marigot Bay, this threelevel complex delights shoppers with its 25 high-end shops and the gourmet delicatessen, Hédiard. Front de Mer, Marigot Tel: 590.590.52.84.84 Web: lewestindiesmall.blogspot.com

LINEN GALORE This delightful store has a lovely selection of tablecloths, place mats and other fine lines, and many are suitable for common holiday celebrations, including Christmas and Easter. 45D Front Street, Philipsburg (at the Holland House Hotel) Tel: 721.542.4590 Web: linengalore-sxm.com

MA DOUDOU Guavaberry Emporium

Specializing in homemade jams, as well as an array of bottled local spices, the delicious goods at this shop make for great gifts to take back home. Surprise your favorite cooks and inspire them to make authentic Caribbean-flavored dishes. 97 150 Street, Philipsburg Tel: 590.590.87.30.43 Web: rhummadoudou.com

SINT ROSE ARCADE Carrying brands such as Cartier, Lalique and Penha French cosmetics, this shopping destination is right on the Philipsburg boardwalk. The arcade also serves as a venue for concerts and shows on the beach. Philipsburg Boardwalk

THE SCUBA SHOP The Scuba Shop offers a large selection of name-brand, quality snorkel and dive gear. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced diver, get fitted and use your equipment right in SXM; then take it home with you for your next vacation. La Palapa Marina #16 Airport Blvd., Simpson Bay Tel: 721.545.3213 Web: thescubashop.net

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SWEET DREAMS BY TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

tep inside and you’ll ﬁnd a dizzying array of childhood classics familiar to shoppers on both sides of the Atlantic: Dutch Schoolkrijt, licorice that resembles classroom chalk, British favorites like Cadbury Flakes and Curly Wurly and American goodies like Skittles and Hershey bars. There are plenty of local treats, too, like coconut drops and peanut brittle. “I’ve liked candy all of my life,” says the Candy Man, who prefers not to share his real name in order to maintain his Wonkaesque mystique. “But not as much as I do now.” He spent more than 20 years in the restaurant business in his native Toronto. About six years ago, his mother — worried

that he hadn’t taken a proper vacation in years — convinced him to go on a cruise. One of the stops: St. Maarten. He fell in love with the island and departed with visions of sugar plums — and much, much more — dancing in his head. A Caribbean candy shop seemed, however unlikely, a natural fit. “I figured if it didn’t work out, I’d eat my merchandise and leave,” he says. He settled on a dilapidated wooden structure near Bobby’s Marina. No bigger than a typical garden shed, it nonetheless took him weeks to fix. He also settled on the right color scheme — blue and yellow to match the sun and sky of his new home. The Candy Man’s shop also traffics in treats of another sort:

Crew members passing through the marina often leave love letters in the care of the Candy Man, to be picked up by their sweethearts. Photos of customers, stretching up into the rafters, line the top of one wall at the shop. One shows his nieces and nephew, who often come from Toronto to visit. Their father, the Candy Man’s brother, is a dentist (go ﬁgure). He points to another, which shows his mom, Ruthe. He misses her but Skypes with her at least once a week. “If it wasn’t for my mom bugging me to take a vacation,” he says, “I would never have had this new life.” Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to “8:30-ish.” Cash only. E-mail: stmaartyn@yahoo.ca

Hot Buys: Flaunt your bargain-hunting skills and let others know where to go using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Shopping \ Timepieces

02 ULYSSE NARDIN CIRCUS ADVENTURINE MINUTE REPEATER A richly animated circus scene decorates a genuine aventurine dial. Each of the six ﬁgures is hand-carved in 18-karat gold. When the minute repeater lever is activated, the monkey begins interfering in the clown’s ballgame; this movement indicates the hour chiming. The trainer with the whip reaches out to the tiger, indicating the quarters. The tiger stretches its paw, indicating the minutes. The bear bows in front of the ballet dancer while the chiming mechanism is activated. This is a Limited Edition of 30 pieces.

01 JAEGER-LECOULTRE REVERSO SQUADRA LADY A Jaeger-LeCoultre invention that has been unique since 1931, the “Reversible” case is a timeless symbol of Art Deco. When the case is turned over, the Reverso is transformed into a jewel that can be personalized with an engraving.

04 NOMOS ZÜRICH – WELTZEIT WORLD TIMER Not just a watch, but rather 24 watches in one. Travel the world with the push of a button, keeping track of time wherever you go: Sydney, Denver, Alaska or New York. A complication that keeps things simple and is even helpful when you don’t leave the house — but go online or call friends in Honolulu. In a couple of clicks you can be away and back again.

03 BREGUET HAUTE JOAILLERIE MARIE-ANTOINETTE DENTELLE This high-jewelry timepiece encompasses hundreds of internally ﬂawless to VVS clarity diamonds and a 1.3–carat ruby. With just a few highly skilled jewelry artisans, Breguet was able to include various techniques such as lacework decoration, sphered pavé and circular-grained mother of pearl. The timepiece is presented on a red satin strap and makes for the ultimate ladies dress watch.

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06 IWC AQUATIMER CHRONOGRAPH EDITION “GALAPAGOS ISLANDS” This striking piece commemorates the partnership established in 2009 with the Charles Darwin Foundation. Hundreds of scientists, students, teachers and volunteers from all over the world work at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Part of the proceeds from sales of the Galapagos edition watch go to support the foundation’s work.

05 VACHERON CONSTANTIN PATRIMONY CONTEMPORAINE RETROGRADE DAY AND DATE Strength, instancy and precision: These three key elements, perfected by Vacheron Constantin’s master watchmakers, make the combination of the two retrograde displays of Day and Date appear deceptively simple. An aesthetically clean and contemporary exterior belies its complex inner workings.

07 A. LANGE & SÖHNE RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “POUR LE MERITE” In this magniﬁcent timepiece, a rounded cut-out in the seconds dial reveals the tourbillon cage — but the tourbillon can be admired in its entirety from 12 to six o’clock. At six, a dial segment with Roman numerals instantaneously pivots into the aperture to make the hour scale complete.

08 PATEK PHILIPPE 5990/1A NAUTILUS TRAVEL TIME CHRONOGRAPH For nearly 40 years now, the casually elegant Nautilus has enjoyed iconic status. In 2006, when Patek Philippe presented the ﬁrst Nautilus chronograph, it was instantly clear that this was what physically active watch connoisseurs had been awaiting. Now, the coveted chronograph has been enriched with the useful Travel Time function as reﬂected in the name.

With roots dating back to the 1800s, the present owners of the eponymous JEWELS BY LOVE stores are the ﬁfth and sixth generation in an illustrious line of jewelers and diamond mavens. Thanks to consistent standards, their name has become the benchmark for quality, prestige, integrity and value. • 7 Rue du Général de Gaulle, Marigot • 3 Front Street, Philipsburg • Tel: 721.542.6808 • U.S. Direct: 917.546.0902 • Web: jewelsbylove.com • E-mail: info@jewelsbylove.com

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Shopping \ Great Finds

01 CHRYSALIS STACKABLE BRACELETS CARIBBEAN GEMS

Bracelets with spiritual energy reﬂect your story with a vast array of expandable bangles, charms and stones.

02 FESTINA TOUR DE FRANCE 2014 CARIBBEAN GEMS

A limited-edition timepiece with a cycling spirit, the 2014 Festina is sporty, rugged and attractive. 03 FREIDA ROTHMAN STACKABLE BRACELETS CARIBBEAN GEMS

Incredibly sophisticated and unbelievable reasonable, the combination of white enamel and gold embodies classic style.

04 ORO DIAMANTÉ

With the largest inventory of GIA–certiﬁed loose diamonds in St. Maarten, you are sure to ﬁnd the piece of jewelry that’s right for you.

SXM JEWELRY SHOPS 01–03 CARIBBEAN GEMS: 22 Front Street (across from Sint Rose Arcade), Philipsburg • Tel: 721.542.8313 • Fax: 721.542.9957 • U.S. Tel: 212.537.6094 • Web: caribbeangems.com / 40 Front Street (across from Holland House Hotel), Philipsburg • Tel: 721.542.2176 • Fax: 721.542.5862 • U.S. Tel: 646.472.7996 • Web: caribbeangems.com 04–05 ORO DIAMANTÉ: 62B Front Street, Philipsburg • Tel: 721.543.0342 • Toll-Free: 800.764.0884 • Web: oro-diamante.com

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05 ORO DIAMANTÉ

Take your pick at one of the largest selections of rare gemstones anywhere.

06 JOHN HARDY’S NAGA SILVER AND GOLD COLLECTION LITTLE SWITZERLAND

Invoke the legend of the Balinese dragon with John Hardy’s Naga Silver and Gold Collection, made of sterling silver and 18-karat gold.

07 MUSEUM CHRONOMAT WATCH BY MOVADO LITTLE SWITZERLAND

Sleek, modern and striking in all black, the men’s Museum Chronomat embodies the bold design of legendary Swiss watchmaker Movado.

08 THE ORIGINAL WILD GUAVABERRY ISLAND FOLK LIQUEUR GUAVABERRY EMPORIUM

Insiders have a special way of drinking SM Guavaberry Liqueur. Try the Guavaberry Kir Royale. To enjoy it at its best, put the bottle in the freezer. The liqueur will thicken, but it will not actually freeze. Pour half a shot into a frosty tulip Champagne glass and then ﬁll the rest with topquality dry Champagne. Sit back and enjoy!

E-mail: sales@oro-diamante.com / Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino 06–07 LITTLE SWITZERLAND: 52 Front Street, Philipsburg • Tel: 248.809.5560 • Web: littleswitzerland.com / Cyrus Wathey Square #5, Philipsburg / Harbor Village, Point Blanche 08. GUAVABERRY EMPORIUM: 8–10 Front Street, Philipsburg • Tel: 721.542.2965 • Web: guavaberry.com • E-mail: manager@guavaberry.com

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Breathe

EASY With all the spas, salons and studios in SXM, achieving balance is as easy as island living.

by Tere Figueras Negrete

SXM2015

Beauty & Wellness

Breathe Yoga

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Beauty & Wellness

Baie Nettle

TEL: 721.554.3662 WEB: breathesxm.com VIDEO: To see a behind-the-scenes footage of our Breathe Yoga photo shoot, go to youtube/i48XplA6sS0

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rica Danielle, founder of Breathe Yoga, has been helping vacationers and locals stay fit, relaxed and focused on SXM since 2012. But she wasn’t always such a paragon of peaceful living: Danielle started out as a hard-charging corporate lawyer based in Washington D.C. In 2011, she quit her job, packed her bags and moved to Amsterdam. While she had been a fan of yoga since taking her first class — a free session in New York’s Central Park — she decided to turn her passion into a business. “That year, I received my yoga teaching certification from a yoga school

in Rishikesh, India,” says Danielle, who is also a meditation instructor and life coach. “I started Breathe the very next year, and I haven’t looked back.” When her husband landed a job in St. Maarten just a year later, Danielle decided to start up her fledgling business once again — this time in the Caribbean. “We closed our doors in Amsterdam and moved Breathe here to the friendly island,” says Danielle, who also regularly writes about health and wellness for The Daily Herald. She finds the island setting a perfect place to channel inner peace, especially during Breathe’s waterfront classes at Simpson Bay Resort & Marina in Pelican Key.

HERE’S TO GOOD HEALTH! BY MARIANNE TEFFT

n the friendly island, fresh and natural describe the way of life and a few of our favorite healthy places. In Simpson Bay, Top Carrot restaurant and juice bar offers meal-in-a-minute smoothies, daily vegetarian specials and quick, healthy snacks for dine-in or takeout. Browse the New Age books and gift items or simply relax with a good magazine. Airport Road (near Simpson Bay Yacht Club) Tel: 721.544.3381 The bright-yellow Freedom Fighters Ital Shack is the spot for vegan cuisine and a hearty Rasta welcome. Roland “Ras Bushman” Joe and his family invite you to share their homegrown organic produce and drinks, including papaya, tamarind, and oats and lime. Open every day except Saturday. Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: 599.542.0055

J. Ethan Duran

“The outdoor classes overlook the ocean and take place rain or shine, as we have a covered location for rainy days. When the mood strikes, we even do our inversions practice on the beach, just a few steps away from the yoga platform,” she says. “We also offer private lessons upon request — in villa, on board and in a number of beautiful outdoor locations we’ve found all over the island.” Danielle’s tips for staying fit while on vacation are: t “Do or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda t For those who really want to stay active on vacation, focus on eliminating your typical fitness excuses. If you typically find that you “don’t have time,” then be sure to schedule your workout for early in the day before all the fun begins. If you find that you “just don’t feel like it” once you arrive at your vacation destination, then schedule private lessons or training sessions before you arrive. Nothing gets you up and working out like a person knocking on your door and money already spent. If you’re constantly telling yourself that working out “takes too much time from your relaxing or sightseeing,” then commit just a few minutes a day to running on a treadmill or outdoors, doing a few sun salutations or a HIIT workout routine. t With regard to eating, I’m a firm believer in enjoying culinary offerings when on vacation. I typically try to have a light, healthy breakfast and lunch so there are plenty of calories left for piña coladas and fancy dinners. Obviously, the goal is typically to have your heaviest meal early in the day, but, geez, you’re on vacation. Am I right or am I right? Breathe Yoga offers outdoor classes at 8 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays at Simpson Bay Resort & Marina in Pelican Key. Indoor classes are held at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and at 10 a.m. Saturdays at Welfare Road #89 in Simpson Bay. Breathe Yoga also offers private lessons, life coaching, monthly yoga and meditation workshops, retreats and yoga teacher training.

For organic, pasture-raised, hormone-free dishes delivered right to your door, Fit Foods SXM is the place to call on Wednesdays. Specials such as grass-fed beef burgers on gluten-free buns are served with grilled veggies and sweet potato fries or try the wild Atlantic salmon with grilled zucchini. Illidge Road #26, Philipsburg Tel: 721.588.3200 Web: facebook.com/fitfoodsxm What’s tastier than receiving a bouquet of roses on a special occasion? Why, getting an edible bouquet, of course! With a touch of artistry that’s sure to please any palette, Edible Bouquets is ready to create gift baskets from fresh exotic fruits, fluffy marshmallows and juicy berries set up to resemble your favorite flower arrangement. #85 Airport Road, Cole Bay Tel: 721.544.0543 Web: facebook.com/ ediblebouquetsofsxm

Top Carrot

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La Samanna

TREAT YOURSELF BY ALITA SINGH

Hibiscus Spa

othing invokes images and feelings of relaxation like spending a good vacation on the island. The icing on the proverbial cake of a getaway is going in for head-to-toe pampering at one of SXM’s top-rated spas or salons. Having regular spa treatments and great hair styles is essential for those on St. Maarten/St. Martin, so there are plenty of options at almost every corner. The Christian Dior Spa at The Cliff Resort, the only one in the Caribbean, is a sanctuary for those seeking beauty and relaxation. It features an on-site pool, sauna and steam room, and all the treatments incorporate signature products from Dior — one of the world’s most luxurious beauty brands. Indulgence by the Sea Spa offers full pampering at Divi

Little Bay Beach Resort and Oyster Bay Beach Resort. The Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort’s Hibiscus Spa is a tropical oasis with a menu of treatments that cater to both men and women. No matter the occasion, be sure to visit Miguel’s Spa + Salon at The Atrium Beach Resort & Spa and meet the maestro of hair, Miguel Alexander. He and the other stylists are proﬁcient in every hair type, especially for women of color. Miguel is sought after by brides and their parties, too. One A-list bride even ﬂew him to Bali, Indonesia, to complete the perfect do for her big day. Joining Miguel as best in hair are Hair Xperts in Simpson Bay and Hair and Body Works

at the Royal Palm Beach Resort. These three salons were voted by residents as the island’s very best in The Daily Herald’s annual “Best Of” issue. Francophiles can also enjoy their head-to-toe pampering at the La Samanna Spa, which utilizes products from the luxury French brands Sisley and Pure Altitude. Located inside the Belmond La Samanna resort on Baie Longue, the spa offers a menu of treatments that includes body wraps, facials and massages. There’s even “sunburn rescue” treatments for those who have overdone it at the beach. It includes an aloe-based thermal wrap and topical treatments to apply in the days that follow.

Spa Moments: Destress, unwind and remember to spread the relaxed vibe using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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SXM2015

Use ful Informat ion

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Tips &

TIDBITS Vistors to St. Maarten/ St. Martin are bound to have questions. Here are a few useful bits of information.

Simpson Bay

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BUSINESS HOURS Hours of operation vary between parts of the island and by store. Shops in Philipsburg are usually open Monday–Saturday from 9 or 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., but only some are open on Sundays. Mediterranean-style schedules are prevalent in Marigot, where stores are generally open from 9 or 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. but tend to close between 1 and 3 p.m. Hours vary on Sundays, depending on cruise ship arrivals; and most restaurants follow similar schedules. Make sure to call ahead to plan accordingly.

and the official currency of French St. Martin is the euro. Islandwide you’ll find most prices listed in several currencies, with the U.S. dollar prevalent and accepted virtually everywhere. Let merchants know which currency you intend to pay with and keep an eye on the exchange rate, which is posted in most hotels and banks. The Eastern Caribbean dollar and the U.S. dollar are the currencies of Anguilla. St. Barths accepts both euros and U.S. dollars, and Saba and St. Eustatius accept guilders and U.S. dollars.

CREDIT CARDS

DEPARTURE TAX

Major credit cards — Visa and MasterCard — are accepted at most establishments. U.S. dollar traveler’s checks are accepted everywhere with identification.

St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport adheres to the procedures for airport tax. Many airlines include the departure tax in the price of the ticket, with the exception of Winair and LIAT airlines. For travel outside of the Dutch Caribbean Islands the fee is $30, while travel within the islands is $10. These departure tax fees are paid at the cashier’s window in the departure hall. Payments can be made using cash or a traveler’s check.

CURRENCY One island. Two governments. Three currencies. Huh? But don’t worry, the island’s currency system isn’t hard to understand. The official currency of Dutch St. Maarten is the Dutch Caribbean guilder

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2015 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS New Year’s Day January 1 Dutch & French Carnival February 23–March 5 French April 15–May 2 Dutch Ash Wednesday March 5 (Shops Closed) French Good Friday April 18 (Shops Closed) Dutch & French Easter April 20 Dutch & French

The Causeway Swing Bridge

DRESS CODE You can vary your dress code in St. Maarten/ St. Martin. It’s mostly a casual island, but it’s also a modest place; so swimwear is appropriate only at the beach. In the island’s fine restaurants and casinos, you’ll feel more comfortable upgrading from your daytime shorts and T-shirts.

DRINKING WATER Tap water on the island comes from desalinated seawater and is drinkable. Bottled water is also readily available.

ELECTRICITY When it comes to using small appliances during your stay, the Dutch side utilizes a current of 110 volts AC, like in the United States. The French side mostly uses the European standard, or 220 volts. Converters and adaptors are available at several electronics stores in Marigot and Philipsburg.

ISLAND BANKING You won’t have any trouble finding banks or ATMs. Windward Islands Bank, Bank of Nova

Scotia, RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) and First Caribbean Bank have credit card–friendly machines throughout the island, including in Philipsburg, Prime Plaza, the Princess Juliana International Airport and the Maho District. Island banks are open Monday–Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

LANGUAGE Dutch is the official language of St. Maarten and French of St. Martin, but English is widely spoken. You’ll also hear Papiamento and other languages such as Spanish, Creole patois, Italian and German.

NEWSPAPERS St. Maarten/St. Martin has its own version of The Miami Herald International Edition that’s printed locally and distributed to hotels and newsstands. It has major news, sports, culture and stock market information. You can also find The New York Times, USA Today and some local newspapers, like The Daily Herald and Today on the Dutch side and Le Pélican and St. Martin’s Week on the French side.

King’s Birthday April 26 Dutch Labor Day May 1 Dutch Ascension Day May 29 Dutch & French Emancipation Day July 1 (Shops Closed) Dutch Bastille Day July 14 French St. Martin’s Day/ Concordia Day November 11 (Shops Closed) Dutch & French Kingdom Day December 15 (Shops Closed) Dutch Christmas December 25 (Shops Closed) Dutch & French Boxing Day December 26 Dutch & French

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Grand Case

MEDICAL Island pharmacies and hospitals can attend to most visitors’ medical needs. Pharmacies carry both prescription and over-the-counter drugs and can be identified by a mint-green cross in front of the building. The Friendly Island Pharmacy in Cole Bay (721.544.4290) as well as the Simpson Bay Pharmacy (721.544.3653) in the Yacht Club carry some of the largest selections of European and U.S. merchandise on the island, at a substantial savings over U.S. prices. The pharmacists are multilingual and familiar with both U.S. and European pharmaceutical products. They also accept prescriptions from U.S. doctors and medicine bottles with a refill label. The hospital on the Dutch side is located in Cay Hill, next to Raoul Illidge Sports Complex. The French-side hospital is located near Marigot in Concordia.

STAYING IN TOUCH It’s easy to remain in contact with loved ones or business associates back home while on the island, thanks to the excellent Internet and cellular telephone network infrastructure. One of the easiest ways to stay in touch is to bring your own GSM cell phone and have it activated for credit card roaming by a local cellular provider. If you didn’t bring

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your own phone, don’t worry. A number of establishments offer cellular phone rentals as well. If you’d like to use your BlackBerry for both calls and e-mails on the island, T-Mobile offers service through a roaming agreement with TELCell N.V. Several companies on the island provide Internet access, including Caribserve.net (721.542.4233), which offers wireless services for both home and business, and TelNet (721.543.7952). United Telecommunications Services (UTS) is the leading mobile and international telecommunication provider in St. Maarten/ St. Martin. It offers Internet services, advanced data networks and transaction-based services such as collect-calling, lease lines, prepaid cards and prepaid mobile telephony (721.542.0101 or infosxm@uts.an).

RELIGIOUS SERVICES Several island venues provide worship services, as well as other religious activities. In general, Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion on the French side. On the Dutch side, Catholic church services in Philipsburg start at 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 8:30 a.m. on Sundays. The Methodist Church service, however, begins at 8:45 a.m. on Sundays, and the New Testament Baptist Church holds Sunday

services at 11 a.m. There is a full-time rabbi on the island, too. Rabbi Moshe Chanowitz and his wife, Rebbetzin Sara, help with kosher meals and other assistance, and they hold services on the Dutch and French side for all the major holidays (721.520.1717 or jewishsxm.com).

TIPPING A 15-percent service charge is added to your bill in most restaurants around the island. Additional tipping for exceptional service is appreciated.

CAR RENTALS This is by far the most convenient way to move around St. Maarten/St. Martin. Rates are reasonable, and most agencies offer unlimited mileage, pickup, delivery, emergency services and additional insurance. You’ll need a driver’s license and a major credit card or a cash deposit. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road throughout the island. Once you’ve had a chance to evaluate local etiquette, you’ll find driving here is easy. Be sure to check with your rental agency to see if there are any minimum age restrictions. U-Save Car & Truck Rental offers competitive rates (721.544.2197; U.S.: 800.272.8728).

Tintamarre

Baie Longue

PARKING

St. Maarten/St. Martin has several gas stations — SOL, Star Mart Quality Station, Tackling SOL Service Station and Texaco Star Mart. Some of them are open 24 hours and offer well-stocked convenience stores with cold drinks, telephone cards and more.

information and are more than willing to share their knowledge. Taxis are not metered here; the government sets the rates, which are based on carrying two passengers. A fee may be added for additional passengers. Your hotel’s front desk can arrange for a taxi 24 hours a day (call 9221). From Philipsburg, taxi rates are as follows: $8 to the zoo; $20 to Marigot; $20 to Orient Beach; $25 to Pinel Island; and $30 to Paradise Peak. From the Princess Juliana International Airport, rates are $8 to Maho; $20 to Marigot; $20 to Philipsburg; $30 to Grand Case; and $35 to Pinel Island. Deepbleu Water Taxi offers water taxis across the lagoon with stops in Simpson Bay, Summit Hotel and Marigot, among others. It is a great way to beat the traffic.

TAXIS

BUSES

You’ll never have to wait long for a taxi on the island. They’re generally available at hotels, major streets and venues throughout both sides of the island. It’s a great way to see the island and learn your way around. Taxi drivers often have a wealth of useful

For newcomers who really want to see St. Maarten/St. Martin, we recommend hopping aboard one of the island’s buses. They regularly run between Philipsburg and Marigot (via Cole Bay), Dutch Quarter, French Quarter, St. Peters and Mullet Bay.

Here’s a useful tip for those of you who are renting cars: Be careful where you park, especially in town. Refrain from parking in areas marked as tow-away zones, and make sure to keep a watchful eye on the traffic signs. There are precious few parking spaces in town — it is the toughest place to park on the island. There’s a single paid parking lot, but there are rarely any spaces available.

GAS

Prices range from $1.50 to $3, and routes often include breathtaking scenery without the responsibility of driving yourself, thus affording a full view.

U.S. SHOPPING REGULATIONS Visitors from the United States who travel to St. Maarten/St. Martin can bring back up to $800 worth of purchases without paying duty when going through U.S. Customs. If you come to the island on a cruise and the ship docks at an island that’s a U.S. territory — like any of the U.S. Virgin Islands — you can bring back up to $1,600 worth of goods duty-free. However, only $800 worth of those goods can be from St. Maarten/ St. Martin; the other $800 of purchases has to come from the U.S.–controlled territory. If you are 21 or older, you may take up to two liters of alcohol out of the country duty-free. This is contingent upon one of the liters of alcohol having been produced in St. Maarten/St. Martin. You’re also allowed to bring home up to 200 cigarettes and 100 non-Cuban cigars. These regulations are always subject to change. For more information, visit cbp.gov.

Stay Connected: Get information before your trip and offer your own tips using the hashtag #ExperienceSXM.

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Use ful Informat ion TELEPHONE DIRECTORY

ST. MAARTEN (DUTCH SIDE)

OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION Animal Welfare Foundation AT&T Chamber of Commerce Collect Calls Directory Assistance Nature Foundation Philipsburg Jubilee Library Post Office St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association St. Maarten Tourist Bureau Taxi Hotline Weather

Dial 1.721 and the seven-digit number if calling from the United States.

ST. MARTIN (FRENCH SIDE)

To call Dutch St. Maarten from outside the island, dial area code 721, followed by the seven-digit number. To call the Dutch side from the French side, dial 00.721, followed by the seven-digit number. To reach the French side from the Dutch side, dial 00.590.590, and then the number. Area codes for neighboring islands (when calling from Dutch St. Maarten) are as follows: Anguilla, 00.1.264; Saba, 0; St. Barths, 00.590.590; and St. Eustatius, 0.

542.0108 542.2337 9221 545.4226

Dial 011.590.590 and the six-digit number if calling from the United States.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Ambulance Fire Hospital Police

911 912 919 910 542.2222

AIRLINES Air Caraïbes Air France American Airlines BWIA Continental Corsair DAE Dutch Antilles Express Delta KLM LIAT US Airways Winair

546.7661 546.7690 546.2093 545.3651 546.7671 546.7660 546.7648 546.7615 546.7695 546.7621 546.7600 545.2649

AIRPORT Customer Information Desk Tourist Information Desk Security

546.7542 546.7713 546.7513

ATTRACTIONS St. Maarten Zoo Sint Maarten Museum

543.2030 542.4917

MOVIE THEATERS The Caribbean Cinemas Megaplex 7

ANGUILLA* 544.9111 021 542.3590 021 9299 544.4267 542.2970 542.2947

544.4777

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Fire Hospital Police

911 911 497.2551 911

OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS Tourism Department Winair

497.2759 497.2748

SABA** EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Fire Hospital Police

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Ambulance Fire Hospital Police

18 29.04.04 87.50.08 29.57.57 87.88.33

AIRLINES Air Caraïbes Air France

83.58.35 82.08.20

AIRPORT Grand Case Airport Main Number

87.53.03

ATTRACTIONS The Butterfly Farm Loterie Farm Saint Martin Museum OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION Directory Assistance Hotel Association AHSM Post Office St. Martin Tourist Office

OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS Tourist Bureau Winair Airport Information

416.2231 416.2255 416.2255 / 160

ST. BARTHS***

87.31.21 87.86.16 29.22.84

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Fire Hospital Police

18 27.66.13 27.60.35 37.66.66

OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS Tourist Bureau Winair Airport Information

27.87.27 27.61.01 27.65.41

ST. EUSTATIUS**** 1012 87.13.00 87.53.17 87.57.21

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Emergency Fire Hospital Police

Note: To call a landline in French St. Martin from abroad, you must dial 011.590.590 (followed by the phone number). To reach a cellular phone, dial 011.590.690 (followed by the phone number).

OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS Department of Tourism Winair Airport Information

* Dial 1.264, followed by the number if calling from the United States. t ** Dial 1.721, followed the by number if calling from the United States. *** Dial 011.590.590, followed by the number if calling from the United States. t **** Dial 1.721, followed by the number if calling from the United States.

124 experiencestmaar ten.com

112 416.2222 / 416.2497 416.3288 / 416.3289 416.3237

111 120 318.2211 / 318.2371 318.2333

318.2433 318.2303 / 318.2311 318.2620

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10-YR NOTE CRUDE OIL

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NEW YORK â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Investors played it safe on Monday ahead of a potentially pivotal Federal Reserve meeting. While large company stocks ended the day little changed, smaller, riskier stocks slumped. Fed policymakers start a two-day meeting on Tuesday and many investors expect the central bank to indicate that it is moving closer to raising its key interest rate as the economy continues to strengthen. The Fed has held the rate close to zero for more than ďŹ ve years, and stocks have surged against that backdrop. The Dow Jones industrial average rose 43.63 points, or 0.3 percent, to 17,031.14. The Standard & Poorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 500 index dropped 1.41, or 0.1 percent, to 1,984.13. The Nasdaq composite fell 48.70 points, or 1.1 percent, to 4,518.90. The Russell 2000 index, an index of small company stocks, slipped 14.09 points, or 1.2 percent, to 1,146.52. Among individual stocks, Molson Coors was the biggest gainer in the S&P 500. The brewerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stock rose $4.20, or 5.8 percent, to $76, after touching an all-time high. The brewerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stock jumped on merger news in the beer industry. Heineken said late Sunday that it has rejected a takeover bid by rival SABMiller, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-largest brewer. Reports said that SABMiller tried to buy Heineken as a defense against an acquisition bid from Anheuser-Busch InBev, the industry leader. The news on the economy on Monday was mixed. U.S. manufacturing output declined in August for the ďŹ rst time in seven months, reďŹ&#x201A;ecting a sharp fall in production at auto plants. Output at manufacturing plants fell 0.4 percent in August after a 0.7 percent rise in July, the Federal Reserve reported. On the other hand, a gauge of manufacturing in New York state jumped to 27.5 in August from 14.7 in July. Some strategists say that investors shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t focus too much about the upcoming Fed meeting, because policymakers will keep rates low until they are convinced that the economic recovery is entrenched. Any selloff caused by Fed worries may even present investors with a buying opportunity, said Robert Pavlik, chief market strategist at Banyan Partners. In government bond trading, prices rose. The yield on the 10year Treasury note, which falls when prices rise, dropped to 2.59 percent from 2.61 percent late Friday, when it reached a two-month high. Another big event that traders are watching this week is Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independence referendum in Scotland. With opinion polls showing the vote too close to call, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential for some sizeable move in U.K. markets. The pound has turned volatile in recent weeks as opinion polls have narrowed. On Monday, the pound was 0.2 percent lower at $1.6231. In other currency trading, the dollar gained against the euro, but fell against the Japanese yen. The dollar rose 0.2 percent to $1.29 per euro. It fell 0.1 percent to 107.2 against the yen. Benchmark U.S. crude oil rose 65 cents to $92.92 a barrel. Brent crude, a benchmark for international crude oils imported by many U.S. reďŹ neries, slipped 2 cents to $96.65.

" " "

Air France pilots strike in protest of cost-cutting ' " ! % 774(.&8*) 6*77

PARIS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; At least half of Air France ďŹ&#x201A;ights around the world @ @ 93.43 6*56*7*38.3, 9+8-&37&?7 5.1487 7&=7 8-*= were canceled Monday as pilots ;.11 ;&10 4++ 8-* /4' &8 6&30+968 &.65468 +46 *.,-8 -4967 43 "9*7)&= 56* kicked off a weeklong strike, an:*38.3, )*5&6896*7 '= *62&3=?7 '.,,*78 &.61.3* +642 .87 '97.*78 &.65468 gry that the airline is shifting "-* #*6*.3.,93, 4(05.8 93.43 7&.) 43)&= 8-&8 5.1487 43 .38*63& jobs and operations to a low-cost 8.43&1 143, ).78&3(* +1.,-87 +642 6&30+968 ;.11 ;&10 498 +642 & 2 84 carrier to better keep up with

5 2 84 " "-* ;460 78455&,* +4114;7 7*:*6&1 786.0*7 competition. .3 8-* 5&78 8-6** ;**07 '= 9+8-&37& 5.1487 .3 93.(- &3) 5.1487 &8 9+ Air France is urging passengers 8-&37&?7 *62&3;.3,7 79'7.).&6= "-* 8;4 7.)*7 &6* 14(0*) .3 & ).7598* 4:*6 8-* 5.1487? )*2&3) 8-&8 to change or postpone travel, es 9+8-&37& 0**5 5&=.3, & 86&37.8.43 5&=2*38 +46 8-47* ;&38.3, 84 6*8.6* timating that it can only ensure *&61= "-* &.61.3* ;-.(- +&(*7 849,- (425*8.8.43 +642 9645*&3 '9),*8 48 percent of ďŹ&#x201A;ights Monday. &.61.3*7 &3) 2&/46 91+ &.61.3*7 ;&387 84 (98 8-47* 5&=2*387 The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges echo those faced by ďŹ&#x201A;agship airlines across Europe, facing tough rivalry ďŹ re employees or adjust contracts the next several years, and from budget airlines and Gulf state in times of ďŹ nancial troubles. Air said it will transfer much of European operations â&#x20AC;&#x201D; France-KLM announced an invest- its carriers. French labor law makes it com- ment plan last week aimed at sav- and jobs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to low-cost carrier plex and costly for companies to ing Â¤1 billion ($1.3 billion) over Transavia.

e Air France pilotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; unions are g calling foul, and called a weeklong strike starting Monday as they y seek better conditions under the e plan. d The Paris airport authority said e only half of Air France ďŹ&#x201A;ights were e operating out of Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. At Charless de Gaulle on Monday morning,, e crowds gathered at the Air France counter to try to change their tick-ets, and canceled ďŹ&#x201A;ights were re-moved from departure and arrivall screens. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought that something g was up when I saw that my ďŹ&#x201A;ightt wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t on the departures board,â&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;? said Austrian tourist Alice White.. n â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hope I will be back to Vienna in time to be at work.â&#x20AC;?

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JURF AL-SAKHAR, Iraq â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Iraq renamed this town on the banks of the Euphrates this week to reďŹ&#x201A;ect the triumph of its security forces here against Islamic State militants, who were driven out last week. Jurf al-Sakhar, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;rocky bank,â&#x20AC;? became Jurf al-Nasr, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;victory bank.â&#x20AC;? But a visit to the Sunni settlement Tuesday laid bare the huge cost of that victory. The town is now emptied of its 80,000 residents, and building after

building has been annihilated â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from airstrikes, bombings and artillery ďŹ re. After four months of battles between the Islamic State and the Iraqi army, about 10,000 pro-government Shiite militiamen were poured into the area for a ďŹ nal push, according to Hadi al Amiri, who leads the Badr Brigade and coordinated the operation. Defeating the militants involved clearing out all of the residents and leaving the town near-ďŹ&#x201A;attened, underscoring the challenge the Shiite-led government faces in

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lions of Shiite pilgrims heading south to commemorate the death of Imam Hussein, a ďŹ gure revered in Shiite Islam. 7

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U.S. auto agency slow to respond to flaws ' !' "# $# % !' ! ! !$ ( "-* *; %460 ".2*7

General Motors published an article in February on its Chevrolet website trumpeting an achievement certain to help sell a lot of cars. Its 2014 Chevys had earned more ďŹ ve-star overall safety ratings in a new car assessment program than had any other brand. The next day, GM began recalling millions of its cars for a deadly ignition defect, and by August, six of the eight ďŹ ve-star Chevrolet models had been recalled for a range of safety issues, including defects in air bags, brakes and steering. Five had been recalled multiple times. It was an embarrassing turn â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but not just for the embattled automaker. The stellar rankings had

been awarded by the federal regulatory agency that is mandated by Congress to ensure the safety of automobiles. The agency, the National Highway TrafďŹ c Safety Administration, has a record of missteps that goes well beyond its failure to detect an ignition switch defect in several models of GM cars now linked to at least 13 deaths. An investigation by The New York Times into the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handling of major safety defects over the past decade found that it frequently has been slow to identify problems, tentative to take action and reluctant to employ its full legal powers against companies. The Times analyzed agency correspondence, regulatory documents and public databases and interviewed congressional and ex-

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Amazon is at war with Hachette, and it sometimes seems as if it has always been that way. As a negotiating tool in the battle, which is over the price of e-books, Amazon is discouraging its customers from buying the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s printed books. After six months of being largely cut off from what is by far the largest bookstore in the country, many Hachette writers are fearful and angry. So this week, they are trying a new tactic to get their work unshackled. Authors United, a group of Hachette writers and their allies, is appealing directly to Amazonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board. It is warning the board that the reputation of the retailer, and of the directors themselves, is at risk. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Efforts to impede or block the sale of books have a long and ugly history,â&#x20AC;? reads a letter being posted to the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website Monday morning. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do you, personally, want to be associated with this?â&#x20AC;? Amazon takes its good name seriously. In the Harris Poll of cor-

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porate reputations, it once again forced last week to drop the price took top honors this year. But that to 99 cents, has been another blow. The letter warns the directors prestige is taking a bit of a beating as the ďŹ ght with Hachette drags on. that the discontent might spread. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since its founding, Amazon The disastrous reception of Amazonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ rst smartphone, which sold so poorly that the company was ) #$! # (

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Heineken, the Dutch brewer, hass said that it had rejected a takeoverr approach made by SABMiller, put-ting on ice what would have been a multibillion-dollar beer deal. With a valuation of about $44 4 billion, Heineken is one of the lastt e big independent brewers in the n world, remaining autonomous in an era of global consolidation. Heinekenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s international appeall and scale â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the very attributes thatt allow it to thrive as an independentt n company â&#x20AC;&#x201D; have also made it an enticing takeover target for largerr brewers. n SABMiller, headquartered in

BAGHDAD â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Militants from the Islamic State carried out a mass killing of hundreds of Iraqi prison inmates when they seized the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-largest city of Mosul in June, an international rights group said on Thursday. Some 600 male Shiite inmates from Badoosh prison outside Mosul were forced to kneel along

the edge of a nearby ravine and shot with automatic weapons, Human Rights Watch said in a statement based on interviews with 15 Shiite prisoners who survived the massacre. The New York-based watchdog added that the Shiite prisoners were separated from several hundred Sunnis and a small number of Christians who were later set free. A number of Kurd-

Democrats in U.S. Senate races turn attentions to racial scars $ $ " * "% &

In the ďŹ nal days before the election, Democrats in the closest U.S. Senate races across the South are turning to racially charged messages â&#x20AC;&#x201D; invoking Trayvon Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s death, the unrest in Ferguson, Mo., and Jim Crow-era segregation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to jolt African-Americans into voting and stop a Republican takeover in Washington. The images and words they are using are striking for how overtly they play on fears of intimidation and repression. And their source is

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surprising. The effort is being led by national Democrats and their state party organizations â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not, in most instances, by the shadowy political action committees that typically employ such provocative messages. In North Carolina, the super PAC started by Sen. Harry Reid of Nevada, the majority leader, ran an ad on black radio that accused the Republican candidate, Thom Tillis, of leading an effort to pass the kind of gun law that â&#x20AC;&#x153;caused the shooting death of Trayvon Martin.â&#x20AC;? 7

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ish and Yazidi inmates were also killed, while between 50 and 100 men from accused on claiming to be Sunnis taken to unknown place, they said. The prisoners had been serving sentences for a range of crimes, from murder and assault to nonviolent offenses. Before separating them, the gunmen herded up to 1,500 inmates onto trucks and drove

them to an isolated stretch of desert about two kilometers, or 1.2 miles, from the prison, the survivors said. After taking several hundred away in trucks, they forced the Shiites to form one long line along the ravine edge and then count their number 7

)4+/)3*% 531124 45%35 )05)3,0* 1&%0,

MIAMI HERALD

NFL PREVIEW

* "% &

JERUSALEM â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the appropriate response to an anonymous slur hurled at an Israeli prime minister by a member of the Obama administration? Why, an anonymous accusation by an Israeli ofďŹ cial tossed right back at Washington. Israeli politicians spent most of Wednesday responding with outrage and concern to an article in The Atlantic quoting a senior U.S. ofďŹ cial calling Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a â&#x20AC;&#x153;cowardâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and also using a more colorful but vulgar synonym that starts with â&#x20AC;&#x153;chicken.â&#x20AC;? Netanyahu and his allies decried such a personal attack as inappropriate, while his critics declared it evidence of the dangerous deterioration of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most treasured alliance that Netanyahu has caused. Then, in late afternoon, a senior Israeli ofďŹ cial offered a new spin. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It appears that someone in the administration is trying to preempt Prime Minister Netanyahuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s criticism of an imminent and highly problematic deal with Iran,â&#x20AC;? said the ofďŹ cial, speaking on the condition that he not be named, since that is how this game is played. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a transparent attempt to discredit the messenger instead of dealing with the substance of his criticism.â&#x20AC;? It would be easy to write all this off as what Aaron David Miller, a veteran Washington observer on all things Middle East, called â&#x20AC;&#x153;the nanny-nanny-boo-boo kindergarten school,â&#x20AC;? where â&#x20AC;&#x153;they call each other names.â&#x20AC;? But there are serious underlying differences in Israel and the United States regarding the fate of Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nuclear program, and the downward dip between their leaders comes at a critical juncture. With a Nov. 24 deadline looming, Israelis have watched, with 7

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Food trucks arrive in food-crazy Belgium $ ! $ &&" ' % &&

ANTWERP, Belgium â&#x20AC;&#x201D; One sells a cheeseburger whose patty is 100 percent cheese, another sells meatballs the size of baseballs and a third tempts palates with insects on a skewer. Belgium takes its food seriously â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and adventurously â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so when the American-style food trucks rolled in, there was little doubt the result would be a bit different. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our crickets on a stick are our best seller,â&#x20AC;? said Bart Smit, coowner of the food truck Microbar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really crickets, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re grasshoppers, but it sounds better to say cricket on a stick.â&#x20AC;? At a recent food truck festival in the port city of Antwerp, young entrepreneurs cooked up a multiethnic storm. The wafting aroma of everything from Indonesian satays to BBQ pork and stone-oven pizza drifted into the city center, drawing throngs of foodies to the Antwerp quayside. A brick-and-mortar locale was once the only place most aspiring restaurateurs could start a business. Losses were great when it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work. Recently, food trucks have radically changed the equation: With a working vehicle and a small amount of capital, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to operate a one-person eatery.

MiamiHerald.com

INTERNATIONAL EDITION

$ $

BRADY

>> MANNING

BREES

The National Football League, which is already awash with stellar quarterbacks, is making it even more enticing to throw the ball

BY JOHN PARKHURST

Contributing editor Miami Herald International Edition

$ +0 *(01$# 4(1' /$"-/#0 ./$#("1$# !6 X-WILL QUALIFY FOR PLAYOFFS EAST x-New England Patriots ......... 11-5 x-New York Jets ..................... 10-6 Miami Dolphins ........................ 9-7 Buffalo Bills .............................. 7-9 NORTH x-Pittsburgh Steelers.............. 11-5 x-Cincinnati Bengals .............. 10-6 Baltimore Ravens.....................8-8 Cleveland Browns ....................5-11 SOUTH x-Indianapolis Colts ................ 13-3 Houston Texans .......................6-10 Tennessee Titans ......................5-11 Jacksonville Jaguars ...............4-12 WEST x-Denver Broncos ...................14-2 Kansas City Chiefs .................... 9-7 San Diego Chargers .................8-8 Oakland Raiders ......................6-10

The NFLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 95th season starts Thursday night with the Green Bay Packers playing at the Seattle Seahawks, who are the defending Super Bowl champions. Before getting to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s predictions, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s review last season. I correctly selected eight of the 12 playoff teams and had the exact records for eight teams and was within a game for eight others. My failings are too numerous to mention, but some of the lowlights were picking: Washington (3-13) to make the NFC title game; Houston (2-14) to go 12-4; and playoff teams Kansas City (11-5) and San Diego (9-7) to be 6-10. Football fans will enjoy the 2014 season as this Golden Age of quarterbacks continues with veterans (Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Drew Brees), in-their-prime passers (Aaron Rodgers, Ben Roethlisberger, Cam Newton), and youngsters (Russell Wilson, Colin Kaepernick, Andrew Luck). They will be helped by the league telling referees to strictly enforce the illegal-contact rule, which prohibits defenders from touching receivers after ďŹ ve yards.

AFC

The East still belongs to New England as long as Brady is healthy. The defense should be better with the addition of cornerback Darrelle Revis. Jets coach Rex Ryan did a masterful job to get his team to 8-8 in 2013 as rookie quarterback Geno Smith struggled. If Smith stumbles again, Michael Vick will play. The Miami Dolphinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hopes rest on passer Ryan Tannehill executing the offense of new coordinator Bill Lazor, who worked last season for Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innovative coach, Chip Kelly. Buffalo rookie receiver Sammy Watkins will be, at the least, very good and spectacular if quarterback EJ Manuel stays healthy.

The Pittsburgh Steelers will win the North behind Roethlisberger, thunder-and-lightning running backs LeGarrette Blount and Leâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Veon Bell, and an improved defense. Cincinnati will be close, followed by Baltimore. Because of rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel, Cleveland will be the leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most-scrutinized losing team. In the South, the Colts will continue to rule with Luck. Tennessee will rely on unproven passer Jake Locker. Houston is in a transition year with new coach Bill Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien and stop-gap quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Jacksonville planned to let rookie Blake Bortles learn behind veteran passer Chad Henne, but Bortles looked good in the preseason. If Henne falters, Bortles will play. Out West, Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos lost receiver Eric Decker in free agency to the Jets. But Manning, who set NFL passing records with 55 touchdowns and 5,477 yards last season, has wideouts Demaryius Thomas, Wes Welker, and free-agent pickup Emmanuel Sanders. Denver spent big on defense, signing defensive end DeMarcus Ware, safety T.J. Ward, and cornerback Aqib Talib. San Diego and Kansas City were surprises last season. Oakland is going with rookie Derek Carr at quarterback instead of veteran Matt Schaub. New England, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, and Denver will be the division winners. Cincinnati will be a wild-card team. The other wild card will go to the Jets after tbey win in Miami in the last regular-season game.

ďŹ n III and new coach Jay Gruden very happy. Dallas will rise or fall on passer Tony Romoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surgically-repaired back. The New York Giants need Eli Manning to cut down on last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NFL-worst 27 interceptions. In the North, Green Bay will cruise because Rodgers is unlikely to miss almost half the season like last year. Chicago will be fun to watch as Jay Cutler throws to Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, and Martellus Bennett. And Matt Forte is one of the leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best all-around running backs. Detroit will put up points, but the defense has holes. Minnesota has a new coach (Mike Zimmer) and will play outdoors. First-round pick Teddy Bridgewater could take over if QB Matt Cassel stumbles. Down South, New Orleans and Brees will churn out points and Rob Ryanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense will improve. Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cam Newton has a new receiving corps. Tampa Bay welcomes Lovie Smith as coach. Atlanta is trying to return to the playoffs after an off year. The West is the NFLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best division with defending champ Seattle, San Francisco, and Arizona coming off a 10-6 season. Seattleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense will remain excellent. The Seahawksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; main concern will be whether Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s late-season slump continues. San Franciscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kaepernick is the best dual-threat quarterback. St. Louis will struggle after losing QB Sam Bradford to a season-ending knee injury. Washington, Green Bay, New Orleans, and Seattle will win their divisions. San Francisco and Philadelphia will take the wild-card spots.

NFC

THE PLAYOFFS

The Philadelphia Eagles will win the East again if Nick Foles throws 27 TD passes and only two interceptions as he did last year. That wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen, especially since the Eagles cut big-play receiver DeSean Jackson. Washington picked up Jackson, making quarterback Robert Grif-

The AFC title game will see host Denver edge Indianapolis. In the NFC Championship Game, Green Bay will win a shootout in New Orleans. Denver and Green Bay will produce the highest-scoring Super Bowl ever as Manning outduels Rodgers 44-40 in Arizona.

$ +0 *(01$# 4(1' /$"-/#0 +0 0*(*(01 01$# $# 4 4(1' ' /$ /$""-/# /#0 0 #("("1$ 1$## !66 ./$#("1$# !6 X-WILL QUALIFY FOR PLAYOFFS EAST x-Washington Redskins ......... 11-5 x-Philadelphia Eagles............ 10-6 New York Giants ....................... 7-9 Dallas Cowboys ........................5-11 NORTH x-Green Bay Packers............... 13-3 Detroit Lions ............................. 9-7 Chicago Bears ........................... 9-7 Minnesota Vikings ................... 7-9 SOUTH x-New Orleans Saints .............12-4 Atlanta Falcons.........................8-8 Carolina Panthers..................... 7-9 Tampa Bay Buccaneers............5-11 WEST x-Seattle Seahawks ................ 11-5 x-San Francisco 49ers ............. 11-5 Arizona Cardinals ..................... 9-7 St. Louis Rams ..........................5-11

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' % !' "" '%( &' ) ! !'* %# ( +"(! !'% #% ! (%& "" (# ( ' ' ! &'"% %" % " %& !& '& & &(&' ! ! #%"' ! % ' %! ' ) The trucks themselves come in all shapes and sizes. Thomas Serros, originally from San Francisco, has a specially outďŹ tted bicycle he pedals to outdoor markets to sell his homemade tacos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I came to Belgium and worked for a bank, then I realized I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t speak all the languages

BUSINESS FRONT

they required,â&#x20AC;? Serros said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, I had to think of something else to do.â&#x20AC;? One constant that runs through nearly every food truck in Belgium is the quest for locally sourced, organic ingredients.

LUCK >>

KAEPERNICK >> KA

>> NEWTON >> RODGERS

>> WILSON

Playoff record straight up: -', 1 / Playoff record vs. spread: -', 1 / Regular-season record straight up: -', 1 / Regular-season record vs. spread: -', 1 / Overall record straight up: -', 1 / Overall season record vs. spread: -', 1 /

ROETHLISBERGER >>

SPORTS FRONT

# !!

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Map

ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN Landmarks, local institutions and points of interest Anse Marcel

MAP LEGEND

Gra nd Ca se 23

Airport Dive Site

Baie de Grand Case

Happy Bay

Golf

Fria riar’s i ’ Bay Friar’s

MON T CA R E TA

R a m bauds

Snorkeling

PIC PA R A DI S

Petit Baie A

Marigot

Baie de Marigot

s C up e c oy

s S out h R ew a rd

s S au nde r s

Scott

M idd le R e g ion

M ad a me’s E state

Rd.

d yR

Guana Bay

P h ilii p ur Ph Philipsburg urg g E

Lay Bay

Caribbean Sea

7 Ba na

Gibbs Bay

ga rden

Great Salt Pond

C ole B ay

ker

SENTRY HILL

Rd.

Snoopy Island

Simpson Bay

Oyster Pond

D utc h Q u a r te r S T. P E T E R S HILL U

MON T DE S ACCOR D S s S t . Pete r s

C Port de Plaisance

ita

DUTCH SIDE

L.B.

Princess Juliana International Airport

ral

ST. M A A RT E N

Rue de Hollande

Great Key

Mullet Bay

ST. M A RT I N

Rue de Co

Baie Nettlé

Baie Longue

Château

F R E NC H S I D E

sB e l lev ue

Simpson Bay Lagoon

Mullet M ul Bay Ba a Pond

Baie de L’Embouchure Étang Aux 4 Caye Poissons

Salines d’Orient

s C olom bie r

s C on c ord ia

S t . Ja m e s s

Green Cay

MON T B OE U F

sA g re me nt

Baie Rouge

MON T F R A NCE B

Baie de la Potence Baie aux Cayes

Orient Bay

Anse de Pères

Marina

Étang Chevrise

Hope E states

Pinel Island

sL a S av a ne

Hospital

Cu l - de - S ac s

Hill

Ter res Ba s ses

Baie du Culde-Sac

Airport L’Espérance

Gas Station

Baie aux Prunes

Grandes Cayes

RED RO C K HILL

Little Bay

Geneve Bay Guana Key

Great Bay

9 Cay Bay

CAY HILL

Cole Bay

sPoi nt B l a n c he

Great Bay Marina

Point Blanche Bay

A.C. Wathey Pier

Atlantic Ocean

BEACHES 1 Pinel Island

9 Little Bay Beach

17 Baie Aux Prunes

2 Petite Clef

10 Pelican Key

18 Baie Rouge

3 Orient Bay Beach

11 Simpson Bay Beach

19 Baie Nettlé

Fort Louis

4 Le Galion Beach

12 Burgeaux Bay Beach

20 Friar’s Bay

Pic Paradis

5 Coralita Beach

13 Maho Beach

21 Happy Bay Beach

Border Monument

6 Dawn Beach

14 Mullet Bay Beach

22 Baie de Grand Case

St. Maarten Park (Zoo)

7 Guana Bay Beach

15 Cupecoy Beach

23 Petite Plage

Fort Willem

8 Great Bay Beach

16 Baie Longue

24 Anse Marcel

Fort Amsterdam

126 experiencestmaar ten.com

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FIND US AT HOTELS – DUTCH SIDE Atrium Beachside Villas Belair Beach Hotel Caravanserai Carl & Sons Cupecoy Beach Club Flamingo Resort Holland House Hotel Horizon View Hotel Hotel Beach Plaza Jennifer Vacation Villas La Terrace La Vista Mary’s Boom Ocean Club Oyster Bay Beach Resort Rainbow Beach Club Royal Beach Royal Islander Hotel Royal Palm Beach Club Sapphire Beach Club Sea Palace Simpson Bay Suites Sonesta Collection Gray Bay Sonesta Maho Beach Hotel

Summit Hotel The Towers of Mullet Bay Travellers Inn Westin HOTELS – FRENCH SIDE Alamanda Resort Anse Margot Atlantide Hotel Captain Oliver’s Club Orient Columbus Hotel Esmeralda Resort Grand Case Beach Club Hevea Hotel Mercure L’ Esplanade La Belle Grand Case La Samanna Le Petit Hotel Palm Court Riu Resort ON THE STREET Ace Rent A Car Artistic Jewelers

Atlantis Casino Avis Car Rental Bedazzled Jewelers Blue Ocean Budget Rent a Car Caribbean Gems Casino Royale D Diamonds Dazzling Gems Divinity Jewelers Dollar Rent A Car Dreams Empress Rent a Car Europcar European Jewelers Furla Jewelry Goldﬁnger Guavaberry Emporium Hertz Rent–a–Car iStore Joe’s Jewelers Lady Ruby’s Silk Cotton Grove Art Gallery Maho Market Milago OM Jewelery

Paciﬁc Avenue Park Avenue Piece of Cake Bakery & Restaurant Prestige Value Car Rental Primero Jewelery Quickly Rent A Car Save Rent A Car Sona Gift Shop Souvenir Island Sunset Bar & Grill Resturant The Taste Factory Thrifty Car Rental Touch of Gems Trident Jewelers Triple ”A“ Advantage Rent A Car Vini’s Gift Shop Zee Best Bakery AT OTHER KEY LOCATIONS Princess Juliana International Airport distribution rack Princess Juliana International Airport tourist information desk St. Maarten Great Bay Port

Experience at: &RONT STREET p 0HILIPSBURG ST -AARTEN !CROSS 0ASANGRAHAN HOTEL p PANDORA SXM BOOLCHAND COM

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