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Luxury Travel
Spotlight on St. Martin Saint-Tropez Style — Creole Charm
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ast issue we looked at the Dutch side of the Caribbean island of St.Maarten/St.Martin– a delightful dual nation that boasts over 37 breathtaking beaches. This edition we will unearth the fabulous offerings of its French governed region. Though there is no marked border save a stone monument between the two countries, you’ll notice a change of ambience and lifestyle once you cross over. The French side is typically more laid-back and less commercial; there are no high rises and there are no casinos (gambling is illegal). But there are plenty of hip little nightclubs and a multitude of first-class dining options, especially in the Grand Case area. The colourful Creole houses and shops make Marigot a warm and vibrant capital with a very European vibe—think bakeries boasting fresh baguettes and little outdoor cafes. Wednesdays and Saturdays, the main square comes to life with a wonderful open-air market offering Creole spices, local produce, fresh fish, Caribbean clothing and entertainment. The stellar crafts of well-heeled seafarers fill the berths at Porte la Royale Marina, and for those without boats but lots of bucks, No Limits Charters offers million-dollar mega-yachts and classic sailing crafts for hire. If you want to learn to sail while on holiday, the Maritime School of the West Indies is a first-class operation. There are many artisanal haunts and art galleries, and music festivals and regattas abound year-round. Though the French annual “Carnival” is smaller than the Dutch celebration, it’s colourful and great fun with a distinctive Mardi Gras flavour. For eco-trekking enthusiasts, many of St.
Martin’s natural areas are environmentally protected preserves with abundant wildlife, both topside and underwater. Spectacular, picturesque beaches like Baie Rouge, Baie Longue and Le Galion (a windsurfer’s delight) are well worth visiting, but it’s undoubtedly Orient Bay Beach that puts St. Martin on the map as the “Riviera of the Caribbean”. This sprawling surfside playground of the rich and famous has a clothing optional policy at Club Orient, and full-service amenities, restaurants, bars, and watersports of every ilk including jet ski rental and parasailing. Visit: www.iledesaintmartin.org. For Dutch side: www.vacationstmaarten.com . SUSAN CAMPBELL
-- LuxuryReportMagazine.com