St. Martin's airstrip. Do I need a visa to visit Saint Maarten? Population and language

Saint Martin- an island that is one of the most unique in the ridge of the Caribbean archipelago. For more than 350 years, this small territory has been divided into two states. In the south, the islanders are inhabitants of the Netherlands, and in the north they are French subjects.

Saint Martin on the world map

Between North and South America inhabited and uninhabited Greater and Lesser Antilles, which are better known as Caribs.

Saint Maarten or Sint Maarten is one of the fifty islands of the Caribbean Sea, a representative of the northern part of the Windward Islands.

Geographic characteristics

The island is located to the east, and through the straits it is adjacent to the islands of Anguilla (in the north) and Saint Barthélemy (in the southeast).

Caribbean waters and Atlantic Ocean wash only 87 sq. km of land that arose more than 9 million years ago. By the island volcanic origin and until now it is in a zone of high seismic activity.

The highest point of the hilly part of French territory is Mt. Peak Paradise, climbing which you can see the outlines of the boundaries of this Caribbean island. The relief of the central part has hills and hills, and the territory near the sea is flat, with wide shores of white and yellow sands along the entire perimeter.

The island is scattered with numerous salt lakes and rivers, which are occasionally filled with rainwater. Numerous bays and bays can be seen along the entire coast, and capes and peninsulas go far into the sea.

Climatic conditions

Saint Martin is characterized temperate tropical climate with dry warm weather and humid air. Meteorological features contribute to year-round visiting the island by tourists.

Constantly blowing trade winds neutralize the humidity formed as a result of the heat and short-term rains from November to November.

The upper daytime temperature in summer is not more than +32 degrees, and in winter it is not lower than +23C° even at night.

The average annual rainfall is around 1000 mm and peaks in September and November. From February to April, the chance of rain is minimal.

Most favorable period for travel - from mid-December to the end of April.

General information

The amazing history of two countries coexisting peacefully for many years is a clear example of tolerance for all states. The island has an absolutely harmonious neighborhood and respectful attitude of representatives of different cultures and nationalities to each other and to guests.

Historical reference

Salt Island or Land of Women- this was the name of the island of St. Martin by the Arawaks, who originally lived in the Caribbean back in the 5th-6th centuries AD. Christopher Columbus in 1493 named the island of Saint Martin in honor of the Catholic saint during the mapping of the territory he discovered.

Gradually, the Spaniards, French and Dutch began to settle here, periodically changing their priority positions. And only in 1648 the division of the island between and Holland took place, and this agreement is valid to this day.

In subsequent periods, there were attempts to occupy the island by the Maltese, the British and the Americans, but today two peacefully coexist here. territorial entities:

• self-governing autonomous state of Sint Maarten within the Kingdom Netherlands;
• overseas community France Saint Martin with wide autonomous powers.

There are no official borders between the countries, except for a symbolic pillar, near which tourists like to take pictures. It is located on the mountain Concordia.

Internal organization

The population has exceeded the mark of 74 thousand people, and for the most part these are the descendants of those imported during the colonial period. slaves developing plantations:

1. Creoles;
2. African Americans;
3. mulattos;
4. Indians.

Only quarter residents are white populations.

City Marigot- the administrative center of the French territory, has about six thousand people. It is the largest city on the island in terms of population.

About a thousand people live in Philipsburg, the administrative center of the Dutch territory.

The main part of the population professes Christianity. The majority of believers are Catholics and Protestants, there are Pentecostals, Adventists and a small part of the Jews.

Official language in French territory - French, in the territory of the Netherlands - Dutch. But you can hear English and Spanish speech everywhere, as well as everyday Creole.

Transport accessibility

An important part of the island's economy is travel business, which began to develop actively in the early seventies. Tourists come from all over the world to get an unforgettable experience and spend their money.

The largest transport hub in the Caribbean is international Princess Juliana Airport. It is located on the Dutch side and is considered one of the ten most dangerous airports peace. It was named in honor of Queen Juliana, who visited the island during the Second World War as Crown Princess.

directly above Maho beach, which is closely adjacent to the runway (2180 m), planes regularly fly just 15-20 meters above the vacationers. The border of the beach and the territory of the airfield are divided by a chain-link mesh.

Maho is one of the most unusual in the world. Read the ranking of the most beautiful and unique beaches on Earth.

A large number of people come to watch extreme flights spotters who, because of the opportunity to see everything with their own eyes and capture it in a photo or video, choose Saint Martin for their vacation.

Bandwidth airport - up to 1.5 million passengers per year.

And you can find a plane ticket right now using this search form. Enter departure and arrival cities, date And number of passengers.

Philipsburg in the Netherlands is visited daily cruise ships with tourists and stop at the port for several hours.

Inside the island, movement takes place mainly on a rented and public transport. The length of the roads is just over 50 km. Boats sail to the neighboring islands of Saint Martin.

Visa regime

Going to Saint-Martin should get special visa overseas territories, if there is no long-term visa in the passport. The list of documents does not differ much from the usual package, there is a difference in the completed questionnaire.

Such a visa is made at the consulates of the country where the stay will last longer.

But since there are no borders inside the island, then there will be no problems with internal movement.

Tourism in Saint Martin

The Caribbean island attracts everyone with its charm large quantity exotic lovers from all over the world. Every day ships sail and planes arrive with tourists who want to plunge into the atmosphere of this heavenly place on earth.

natural world

On the coast, noisy nightlife alternates with calm or vice versa very outdoor activities, but the most important thing that attracts tourists so much is white sand and amazingly beautiful sea.

The nature of this region does not look defiant. On the hilly territory of Saint-Martin, forests are green, in which there are several hundred different types birds. The rest of the territory grows mainly palm trees, hibiscus, many different varieties of cacti. Not very diverse and animal world - mainly birds and lizards are represented, as well as feral domestic animals.

Attractions and entertainment

Each state has something to be proud of, and guests are happy to visit and take pictures near local attractions.

IN Marigot worth a look:

• old Fort Saint Louis With panoramic view on the coast;
• museums history and culture;
• romantic Republic Street;
• butterfly farm.

IN Philipsburg are:

1. monument Queen Wilhelmina;
2. Museum Saint-Martin;
3. forts Willem And Amsterdam;
4. watney square;
5. zoo;
6. Botanical Garden .

Every year the Dutch hold a birthday carnival. Her Majesty the Queen. This holiday traditionally lasts 17 days.

The French are also not indifferent to mass events and they arrange their carnival during Lent.

beach holiday

The main reason why tourists come to the island is luxurious sandy beaches with emerald water, coral reefs and almost no waves. There are about forty beaches on the island and each of them has its own flavor, so it is best to explore them by renting a car.

The crystal-clear sea allows snorkellers to snorkel, scuba dive, and surfers will love the big waves from the Atlantic Ocean. There are shallow beaches where it is good to relax with little ones and there is a special beach where nudists gather.

Crowded on the beaches, where the infrastructure is well developed, a lot water activities, and in the evening music sounds in coastal restaurants. One of the best The following beaches are considered:

• long bay;
• nettle bay;
• Lovers' Beach;
• happy bay;
• Great Bay;
• simpson bay.

The majority of vacationers who arrived on the island included in the program mandatory attendance the most popular beach Maho Beach. He himself is small and cozy, with clean water and eateries on the beach. The length of the strip for recreation is only 300 meters, and the width is not more than 20 meters.

But they don't come here for beach holiday and watch the planes land or take off.

If you first find out the flight schedule of Princess Juliana Airport, you can become lucky and see huge modern transatlantic liners that fly right over the beach.

At the same time, air currents raise unexpected waves, and therefore the coast near the airport is attractive for windsurfers. But the area near the beach, due to strong air currents, is completely devoid of greenery.

The popularity of the Caribbean islands is confirmed by the stories of those who returned from a trip with unforgettable impressions. Saint Martin is not deprived of the attention of famous people from all over the world who do not skimp on enthusiastic remarks about the island. And many celebrities even buy apartments in order to experience the charm of the “island of eternal holiday” again and again.

shopping

Saint Martin is duty free zone. Therefore, in supermarkets you can buy affordable prices alcoholic drinks and various delicacies from all over the world.

You can bring here handmade souvenirs from Philipsburg Market, spices and sauces made on the island. On the Dutch side are brand stores clothes, chic boutiques with cosmetics, accessories and jewelry.

Prices are generally quoted in Euro, but you can pay in dollars and credit cards.

See video about holidays in Saint-Martin:

Saint Martin the most unusual island in the Caribbean, there seems to be too much uniqueness in this island, let's start in order.

1. The island belongs to two countries at once, the northern part belongs to France, the southern part belongs to the Netherlands. But there are no borders on the island, there is only a symbolic pillar with which tourists take pictures. The French call the island "St. Maarten", the Dutch "Sint Maarten", sometimes we call it the island of St. Martin. To get to the island you need a special visa, which can be obtained through the visa centers of the two countries, you need to make a visa for the country where you will spend more nights. The list of documents is no different from a regular Schengen visa, only the application itself is slightly different.

2. Prostitution is legalized in St. Maarten, most of the brothels are located in Philipsburg, which is the capital of the southern part, it is located major port, where almost every day huge liners with tourists moor. Drugs are prohibited unlike in the Netherlands. The saleswoman in the supermarket was delighted that we were from Russia, she says there are few Russians here, but there is one girl who works as a masseuse in a neighboring building. I'm afraid to imagine what kind of massage she does :)

3. The most unique airport in the world is also located here, we admit that many people come to Saint Martin just because of it. The runway of Princess Juliana International Airport is famous for starting from Maho Beach, so planes land right over the heads of tourists. Standing over a huge KLM Boeing is an extreme pleasure. The second entertainment is to stand at the fence when the planes take off, the main thing is to hold on tight :) I wrote about it earlier

4. Good beaches. Everyone will really enjoy swimming on the island, the water is distinguished by clear azure water and the absence of waves. I recommend Maho beach with planes (during the season when there are no stones) and the neighboring Mullet Bay beach. In the French part good beach is Orient Beach.

5. The entire island is duty free and Dute Free. Despite the fact that all goods are imported (they only produce sauces), thanks to tax breaks, there are excellent supermarkets with decent names at an affordable price. American beer, Brazilian couscous, Belgian ice cream, Canadian maple syrup and more. Prices for liter bottles of rum start at $6. We brought home something that is hard to find in Perm, real Canadian maple syrup and more. And what kind of Jamaican beer is there, because the island was an English colony, they brew incomparable ales !!!

6. Currency. The uniqueness is that on the island the official currency on the Dutch side is guilders, but the prices are also indicated in dollars, because most of the tourists are Americans. In the northern part, prices are indicated in euros, but you can also pay in dollars, and at the rate of 1 dollar = 1 euro :) Guilder rate = 1.8 dollars. It is most profitable to go to Saint Martin with American dollars.

7. Sunset bar & Grill. Returning to the topic of airplanes, it is best to watch them from a cafe on Maho Beach. Here good kitchen and sometimes real Caribbean parties with live music. It's fun when the next ship lands, absolutely all tourists rush to this hyped institution. By the way, topless girls are served for free, topless boys are not served at all :)

8. Judging by the sweat reviews, there are enough couples on the island of St. Maarten gay that the big uncle-negr is guards. They prefer secluded beaches so be careful what you choose to swim in :)

Tips for those who want to visit Saint Martin

How to get there?
The easiest one-stop flight from Russia via Paris or Amsterdam with KLM or AirFrance. The cost of tickets will be from 40 thousand rubles. round-trip, sometimes a little cheaper flight by American airlines, but it is only suitable for those who have an open American visa, since there is no transit to the USA.

How to get cheap to the island of Saint Martin? Catch aircaraibes promotions http://www.aircaraibes.com/ , they fly from Paris. The cost of a round-trip flight for the promotion can be 400 euros round-trip. The minimum price of a flight from European cities with connections in Paris and Amsterdam with KLM or AirFrance is from 600 euros. For those who travel to the US, I would recommend cruises from Miami to the Caribbean or direct flights (from Miami round-trip from $ 350, fly 3 hours).


Where to live?
The best area to live in is Marina Simpson bay. First, close to the airport and Maho beaches with Mullet Bay. Secondly, good infrastructure. These are solid restaurants where you can dine with steaks and ribs with live music. A good value for a hotel is around $100, the usual cost is $130-150 per night. It should be understood that hotels usually do not include breakfast, the service is weaker than hotels in the Dominican Republic. Nice hotel Sonesta Maho Beach overlooking Maho Beach and The Villas at Simpson Bay Resort & Marina. Villas and apartments can be searched on Abritel.fr and HomeAway.com homelidays Airbnb.com

View from our room window

The hotel is good, but those who are used to being licked, show shows, animations, cook all-inclusive meals, make swans out of towels and so on, will be very disappointed. Rooms are great, no service.

What currency to take with you?
It is best to take US dollars with you. Minibuses do not accept large amounts, it is best to take more small banknotes.
How to get around the island?

The whole island moves in minibuses, you just have to raise your hand. The fare from Simpson Bay to the airport is $1.5-2, to Maho Beach $2, to Mullet Bay Beach $2.5-3, the same fare to Philipsburg. In fact, small Saint-Martin can be easily traveled around on these minibuses. From the airport you can immerse yourself in a taxi, a specially trained person at the exit will sort tourists according to their place of residence, the cost is 10-15 dollars maximum. There are a lot of rental offices, you can take some Ford Mustang, a lot of beautiful American cars.

Is it safe on the island?
As elsewhere in the Caribbean, you should be careful. There is a story on the Internet about how people were robbed right near the beach, stealing a rented car. It should be remembered that the local population is poor, with all the ensuing consequences. At the same time, you should not see an enemy in everyone, the locals are extremely positive and welcoming.

On the streets of Philipsburg

Beaches
The best beaches are located in the Dutch part of the island, for example, Mullet Bay. It is easy to find it, if you go from the side of the airport to Maho, then you should move along main road along the golf courses, then after the barrier the next turn to the sea. Many minibuses go to this beach, if it is indicated on the sign, you can name it, and when to get out, they will tell you.
The best beach is also called Maho (Maho beach), swimming under the planes is original. The main thing is that this should not be in the off season (for example, October-November), when instead of sand on the beach there are huge boulders. There are always a lot of people on Orient Beach, there are active entertainments (skiing on water skiing etc.), and on weekends there are parties in numerous restaurants. Not far from this beach is small island Pinel. On small boats you can swim across

To find your beach, it's best to take a car and drive around them all :) The cost of sun loungers on the beaches of St. Maarten is from 8 to 15 dollars.

What else can you see in Saint Maarten? In the French capital in the city of Marigot there is a market where you can buy spices, vanilla. And also have breakfast with croissants in French cafes

The only thing that the locals produce is spicy sauces, everything else is imported. Seafood including. The cost of dinner in European prices. For those who want to save money, it’s better to take rooms with a kitchen or apartments, supermarkets have excellent products, you won’t be lost :)

We met the cheerful bartender Roger Lutz. who lives on two things: travel and cocktails. His dream is to open his own bartending school on the island. He thinks that the locals make cocktails suck (and it's true), his cocktails are incomparable. He lived for several years in countries such as South Africa, Iceland, Australia, Japan. Like all Germans, he loves football, supports St. Pauli in Hamburg, this is a very interesting club, for which all asocial layers of society also support (LGBT, hippies, punks, etc.), and he told how, standing on the fan stand, you can get drunk from smells of marijuana :) Cheerful guy who taught us how to make a real pinocolade, we brought all the ingredients from the island, then every day we pampered ourselves at home with a wonderful cocktail. By the way, he told us that bacardi is garbage, any cheapest rum is better than bacardi

Locals pray for lobsters, the cost of dinner is quite European prices.

sunsets

cruise ship in the distance

No wonder the island has an unspoken status of unique. Firstly, the territory of Saint-Martin is peacefully divided by two states. Secondly, it is the smallest land on which two countries coexist, the earth on the planet. Thirdly, one of the most unusual airports in the world is located here. There are fifth, seventh, tenth ...

Saint Martin on the map

Saint Martin Island on the world map or a detailed map of the island can be viewed using the navigation buttons (+/-). Caribbean islands on the map

Since the island belongs territorially to two European powers, it has two names: the French say Saint-Martin (accent on the last syllable), while the Dutch call it Sint Maarten. Accordingly, and administrative centers also two: Marigot (fr.) and Philipsburg (niderl.).

An extraordinary island is located in the north of the archipelago Eastern Islands West Indies. total area 87 km², with the possessions of the Netherlands making up a smaller part - 34 km². On French soil (53 km²) is the highest point of the island (424 meters) - Mount Peak Paradise. The Caribbean Sea washes the coast of this political and geographical miracle.

Holidays in Saint Martin

Southern drive, solar energy, luxury holidays - this is Saint Martin. The whole range of traditional beach pastime, which the Caribbean is famous for, is available on the island in full, so the facts will be more informative:

• right above Maho Beach, giant Boeings take off / land incredibly low;
• Mullet Bay, Orient Beach and the same extreme Maho are considered the best beaches;
• duty-free shopping and the Dute Free zone, beloved by millions of tourists, will provide exciting shopping with purchases at affordable prices;
• in an equal course and the euro, and the guilder, and the dollar;
• the most hyped bar is the Sunset bar & Grill on Maho;
• Marina Simpson bay is the most comfortable for living: in a minute proximity to the beach, developed infrastructure, many cafe-restaurants with first-class cuisine and live music;
• You can get anywhere in Saint-Martin by minibus or rented car.

Tourists, despite the two euro-hosts, move freely throughout the island, freely crossing the conditional border-pillar. The only thing you need to decide in advance is which side to spend the night on - it depends on which of the countries will provide a visa. And further. It's easy to stumble upon a cooing gay couple on a nude beach, so homophobic travelers should avoid these places.

Airport "Princess Juliana" on the island of Saint Martin

Nature of Saint Martin

The exotic charm of the nature of the Caribbean is revealed in Saint-Martin to the fullest, although the soil here is not very fertile. The territory is a rounded top of a currently inactive volcano. The entire perimeter of the island is surrounded by a scattering of picturesque coral plantations, which are easily accessible by swimming. The wealth of the underwater kingdom will provide exciting diving and productive fishing (white and blue marlin, barracuda, wahoo, less often sea urchin, etc.).

Land chic is not inferior to underwater. There are palm trees on the miniature land, and cactus, and succulent thickets of forests, and shimmering fields of cotton, vegetables, and reeds. Flower lovers arrive in ecstasy from the variety of buds, their aromas, shades, sizes. The fauna is many times poorer than the flora and is represented mainly by feral livestock, birds and lizards.

Magnificent Saint Martin can be discovered every day, but never fully known - such a compact Caribbean island is diverse. Ecotourists will certainly appreciate the walks in the Botanical Garden and Zoo, located on the side of the Netherlands. Also popular in the Dutch part of the island are tours of nine churches, colonial era buildings, Her Majesty Wilhelmina Monument, Forts Amsterdam and Willem, Sint Maarten Museum, Dawn Beach, Cole Bay Hill, Watney Square.

And the French possessions will not disappoint tourists who are eager for impressions, especially lovers nightlife is a real paradise of casinos, restaurants-bars, discos, beach parties, original music. The day can be devoted to examining the French-style elegant buildings on Republic Street, climbing up to the ancient fortress of Saint-Louis, exploring unique expositions at the Museum of Culture and History of Saint-Martin and the Loulou Gallery, taking pictures against the backdrop of the original building in which the Rue de la court is located. Liberte. Then go for a run through the Marigot market, go to the Creole village of Colombier, take a tasting tour of the gastronomic capital of Grand Case, relax your soul at the charming Butterfly Farm.

Saint Martin is a small island in the Caribbean archipelago, which is washed by the restless Atlantic Ocean in the east, and the calm Caribbean Sea in the west. Saint Martin is the smallest inhabited island in the world, and it is controlled by two independent states at once - Holland and France. Yes, his South part belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is called Sint Maarten. And here northern territories and a number of adjacent islands is a French overseas community and part of the European Union. Moreover, this peaceful coexistence of European powers has been going on for 350 years. Perhaps this was influenced by the friendliness of both peoples and the carefree atmosphere, as evidenced by the symbiosis of cuisine, architecture and philosophy of the islanders. The life of the island is filled with harmony, and the boundaries between these two neighboring states are more of a convention. The French influence on Saint Martin is mostly cultural heritage, but the Dutch side is actively involved in the popularization of the island, so many resorts are located on its territory and gambling is allowed.

In both capitals Marigot And Philipsburg) is full of gourmet restaurants, fashionable shops and a variety of entertainment venues, so you won't be bored here. In addition, the guests of the island are provided with a large number of magnificent beaches with white sand, which are perfect for relaxation and active entertainment.

Climate and weather

The tropical climate prevails on the island, so the weather here is dry and very warm all year round. In the summer season, daily air temperatures fluctuate between +27...+32 °C, and in winter they almost never fall below +24...+25 °C. The average annual rainfall on the island is about 1000-1150 mm. The rainiest months are September and November, while the driest months are February, March and April.

The most favorable time for a trip to Saint-Martin is the period of the year from mid-December to April.

Nature

The island of Saint Martin is located in the Caribbean Sea and is part of the Small Antilles. Saint Martin is the top of an ancient underwater volcano, which has a rounded shape. Its coastline is framed by a series of small coral reefs with shallow lagoons.

In general, the relief of Saint-Martin is hilly, its highest point is Peak Paradise mountain.

The landscapes of the island are dominated by greenery, but the soils here are dry: palm trees, cacti and hibiscus make up most of the local flora. Although in central regions there are several small forests. Also on Saint-Martin there are more than 30 white beaches with clear water.

The fauna of the island is quite poor and is represented mainly by birds and lizards, as well as feral domestic animals.

Attractions

Despite the fact that Saint Martin is under the control of two different states, their borders are conditional, so tourists can easily see all the sights of the island.

Philipsburg is the only city in the Dutch part of the island whose buildings are recognized as classic examples of early colonial architecture.

These are mostly buildings with red and white facades and steep tiled roofs. The main attractions of the city include Monument to Queen Wilhelmina, nine small churches and watney square. No less interesting fort willem And fort amsterdam.

Also worth a visit Museum Saint-Martin, within the walls of which ancient finds and a collection of items from the sunken frigate are stored " Proselyte».

Well, the main pride of the inhabitants Philipsburg are Botanical Garden and a small but very beautiful zoo.

Outside the city can also be found notable places and objects. First of all, this lookout tower Cole Bay Hill and a great beach Downe Beach.

The French part of the island is less noisy, and its capital is the city Marigot- is a real example of elegant style. The most popular place in the city is republic street with charming buildings that create a romantic atmosphere.

Main historical monument Marigot recognized ancient fortress called Fort Louis from the walls of which offers stunning views of the coast.

Among the others interesting objects most popular Museum of the History and Culture of Saint-Martin, courthouse Rue de la Liberte, gallery « Lulu» and cultural and historical museum « In the footsteps of the Arawaks».

Well, in the vicinity of the city, you should definitely see the remains of a sugar plantation La Sucrerier and picturesque Paradise Peak and also visit a typical Creole village Colombier, the gastronomic capital of the island Grand Kaz, small forest reserve Lotery Pharm and amazing Butterfly farm.

Despite the fact that the island is shared by two states, they have one common attraction, which symbolizes their peaceful coexistence. She represents border monument which is set on top of a small mountain Concordia.

Nutrition

The cuisine of Saint Martin is as interesting as the island itself. Based on a mixture of European, Creole and Caribbean traditions, it is based on seafood that abounds in the surrounding waters. Thus, the most popular and common dishes here are made from lobsters, shrimps, lobsters, various shells, sea fish and seaweed. The most interesting treats of local culinary specialists are charcoal-grilled snapper, boiled shrimp with herbs, fish and coconut soup soapy di squeak, fish meatballs croqueshi, wine soup sopi di binja and fried whole wahoo.

Among meat dishes the most common pies pasthesis, lamb stew cabrito stoba, meatloaf ayacas, cactus and fish soup hobie duchi, spicy steak with lemon. Well, as a side dish, fresh vegetables, green beans, boiled rice and a variety of sauces are most often offered.

Local desserts are also interesting, for example, muffins johnny cake, tortillas pan-baty, potato pudding pudin di potato, caramel quesio and lollipops cockada. Wash down all these treats with tea and freshly squeezed juices. If we talk about alcohol, then all kinds of local and imported drinks are available here. The island also produces such first-class beers as Heineken, Balashi and Amstel. However, the main local drink is the Guavaberry liqueur, which is made from Caribbean rum, sugar and rare berries that ripen only in August.

Oddly enough, the island's best restaurants are not in Marigot or Philipsburg but in a small town Grand Kaz, which is recognized as the gastronomic capital of Saint-Martin. It is here that the best restaurants of Saint-Martin are located, offering gourmet French cuisine and the finest French wines.

Accommodation

The choice of hotels in St. Maarten is simply huge, but during the high season (December to April), rooms should be booked in advance, otherwise it may be difficult to find accommodation. Also in high season one shouldn't be surprised enough high prices, as this place is the most popular international resort.

Almost all Saint-Martin hotels can boast of impeccable quality of service and excellent living conditions. Moreover, the most luxurious establishments are located not in cities, but outside them on the coast. Such hotels are large complexes with swimming pools, restaurants, spas, etc.

If you wish, you can not check into a hotel, but rent an apartment in one of the capitals (from $1,200 per week) or a villa on the coast (from $3,500 per week).

Entertainment and recreation

First of all, guests of Saint Martin are offered a stunning choice of active entertainment: windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, diving, boat trips and sailboats, jungle safaris, fishing, horseback riding, tennis, golf, picnics in nature or just relaxing on the beach.

The “party” life of the island is also very diverse, since closer to the night nightclubs and bars begin their life here, and casinos also begin their life on Dutch territory. Moreover, local clubs are so diverse that you can even hear such styles as merengue, jazz and zouk, and in the best restaurants you can hear classic compositions by Frank Sinatra and other famous performers of all times and peoples.

Worthy of special mention white sandy beaches islands. Among them, the most popular Great Bay, Long Bay, Anse Marcel, Cupecoy, Maho Beach, Simpson Bay and many others. In total, there are about 40 beaches on the island, and many of them are replete with bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. In addition to the beaches on the island, there are large resort areas with all related great vacation infrastructure. In French territory, you can find beaches for nudists, among which the most famous is considered Orient Bay.

Another plus of a holiday in Saint Martin is duty-free shopping in both capitals of the island, which are simply full of a variety of shops and boutiques. Finally, it is recommended to participate in one of the local holidays, for example, in February Carnival.

Purchases

Saint Martin is recognized as one of the most popular shopping destinations in this region. The fact is that both parts of the island are a duty-free zone. Thus, there are more than 500 stores here. duty free who offer huge selection electronics, watches, jewellery, crystal, French perfumes, fashion, Havana cigars and the finest fine wines.

IN Philipsburg the main place for shopping is the street front street, where there is a huge number of shops and shops that beckon with their bright windows. There are also fashionable boutiques with clothes from leading world brands. And on Sundays at Philipsburg there is a market where traders offer interesting products of folk craftsmen.

French city Marigot also replete with many interesting shops, fashion boutiques and luxury jewelry stores offering watches and jewelry from the most prestigious brands. In addition, in Marigot there is a huge market where you can buy the most unusual tropical fruits, fresh seafood and fragrant spices. It also sells original souvenirs made by local artisans.

Transport

On the island is located Princess Juliana International Airport(on its Dutch part). It should be noted that it is not very convenient, as it is located close to the beach, as a result of which planes often fly literally right over the heads of vacationers.

Traffic in St. Maarten is right-handed, the roads are quite narrow, and sometimes not of very good quality.

Public transport on both halves of the island is represented by taxis and buses. Minivans are used here as buses, on which, regardless of the borders, you can get to any part of the island for a very small fee. However, the border between the Dutch and French territories is rather conditional. Well, in a taxi for only $ 25, you can go around the entire island. Such a relatively low price is not due to low tariffs, but to the very small size of Saint-Martin. In addition, most local taxi drivers are happy to provide their services as a guide (about $ 50 per hour).

You can rent any car in one of the international companies, of which there are quite a lot. Also, if desired, it is possible to rent a yacht, scooter, motorcycle, ATV or scooter.

Connection

On the island, quality and good advanced system connections. Telephone booths from which you can make an international call are installed in all settlements and in all public places. All vending machines operate from telephone cards of several types. The most common cards are CaribTel, which are suitable for almost all phones. Such cards are sold in post offices, supermarkets, newsstands and telephone company offices. Also, any call can be made from post office or from a hotel, but in the latter case, the cost of an international call will be much more expensive. Please note that calls between the French and Dutch parts of Saint Martin are considered international calls.

Cellular communication in Saint-Martin operates in the GSM 900/1800 standard, it has good quality and covers the entire island. International roaming service is available to all subscribers of major Russian operators.

Internet access is provided in an Internet cafe, the cost of a session depends on the connection speed and averages $5-10 per hour.

Safety

In general, Saint Martin has a fairly low crime rate, but pickpocketing does happen here.

For this reason, all generally accepted safety rules should be observed, especially for beaches, airports and public places. Car theft is also common on the island.

No special vaccinations are required to travel to Saint Martin. Vaccination against poliomyelitis, typhoid and hepatitis is recommended, although there are no natural foci of these diseases.

City tap water is purified and safe to drink, but it is advised to drink bottled water during the first days of your stay.

Business climate

The advantage of Saint Maarten is its economic security and stability, as well as the fact that the entire island is a duty-free zone. The economy of both parts of the island as a whole depends on tourism business Therefore, considerable funds are invested in the development of infrastructure.

It is this area that is the main source of income for the French territory. And the Dutch part of Saint-Martin is an offshore zone, where a large number of various foreign companies are registered. There is also no tax on any real estate and income from its sale.

Real estate

Saint Maarten Island offers a wide range of real estate, which is provided for both personal use and business. And here it can be owned only by local residents, but also by foreign citizens.

On Dutch territory, there are no restrictions on the purchase of real estate by non-residents of the country, and to complete the transaction, it is enough to present a passport. The transfer of ownership of any property is carried out through a professional notary. This applies to both the French and Dutch parts of the island.

The most prestigious and expensive real estate of the island are luxury villas on the coast. The cost of such objects starts from $750,000 and can reach up to $3,000,000. Usually the price depends on the location and size of the villa.

The housing market is also quite in demand. The cost of a two-bedroom apartment starts at an average of $400,000.

The amount of exported and imported currency is not limited in any way, but the amount of more than 7000 € must be declared.

Duty-free delivery of 1 liter of strong alcohol (over 22 °), up to 200 cigarettes, 100 grams of any tea, 500 grams of natural coffee and 50 milliliters of perfume is allowed.

It is prohibited to import and export items of historical value, psychotropic substances, drugs, ammunition and weapons, endangered plants and animals. It is forbidden to import plants, animals, any animal products and vegetables from Haiti, as well as silver items and coins from Suriname and Holland.

Visa information

Citizens of the Russian Federation to travel to St. Maarten need a visa, which can be issued at the embassies of France or the Kingdom of the Netherlands (depending on which state the hotel is located in).

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands is located in Moscow at the address: per. Kalashny, d. 6. You can also contact Consulate-General in St. Petersburg: Moika embankment, 11. At the same time, a visa issued for visiting St. Maarten does not entitle you to visit the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and holders of Schengen visas to travel to St. Maarten must apply for a separate visa.

The French Embassy in Moscow is located at: st. Bolshaya Yakimanka, 45. The Consulate General is located in St. Petersburg at the address: emb. Moiki, 15. A visa issued for a trip to Saint-Martin does not give the right to stay in France and the Schengen countries.

Saint Martin is undoubtedly the most luxury island in the Caribbean. Magnificent Saint-Martin can be discovered every day, but never fully known - the island is so diverse and surprisingly absorbs all the best that can be found in other places. Luxurious palm trees and turquoise sea, a small tropical paradise with endless fine sand beaches, coconut trees, emerald-turquoise sea and colorful Creole huts. An island rich in contrasts, a unique, unforgettable land. Saint-Martin is divided between France and Holland, and when you arrive on the island, be prepared to plunge into the cultures of two countries at once.

Magnificent Saint Martin

Saint Martin has recovered from Hurricane Irma. Nature has taken care of itself and the island is green again and the beaches are beautiful again. Most hotels, restaurants, clubs and boutiques have been fully restored and are operational. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the typical island lifestyle!

Saint-Martin (fr. Saint-Martin), or Sint-Marten (Dutch. Sint Maarten) - an island washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean from the east and the Caribbean Sea from the west, part of the group of the Netherlands Antilles (they also make up the ridge of the Eastern Caribbean Islands) .

Saint Martin is the world's smallest inhabited island, administered by two different governments at the same time. Northern part the islands are an overseas community of France, and the south is a self-governing state with significant autonomy (status aparte) within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. A kind of small particle of an old woman-Europe on the edge of the Caribbean Sea.

The administrative center of the Dutch part of the island is the city of Philipsburg (Dutch. Philipsburg), the French - the city of Marigot (French Marigot).

The area is 87 km² (including the Dutch part of the island - 34 km², with a population of 41,000; French - 53 km² - with a population of 37,000).

The highest point is Mount Peak Paradise (424 m) in the French part of the island. the relief of which is hilly, and the uplands are covered with greenery and forests.

The island has a dry temperate climate and due to the trade winds has sufficient humidity. There are 37 white sand beaches in the French and Dutch territories.

Before the discovery of America by Europeans, the island belonged entirely to the Arawak tribe, who called it the island of Salt (in honor of the main wealth of Saint Martin) or the Land of Women. The discovery of the island by Christopher Columbus on November 11, 1493, on the day of St. Martin, predetermined its name, which has survived to this day. A century and a half later, the first settlements of the French and Dutch appeared here, who created a coalition to jointly oppose the Spaniards, who also claimed these lands. As a result, the Spaniards were unable to take possession of the island, which was divided between France and the Netherlands according to the treaty of 1648. This treaty still exists and is considered to be the oldest international agreement in force in the world.

In the 18th century, industrial cultivation and production of sugar cane began on the island, and African slaves were brought to work on the plantations. By the way, slavery remained on this island until 1848, despite the fact that it was already abolished in all of France 54 years earlier during the French Revolution.

The official language of the Dutch part of the island is Dutch. English and Spanish are spoken here; on the French side, French is the official language, but the local population also speaks English and Creole.

The basis of the economy is tourism.

Official monetary unit on the Dutch side is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, and on the French side, as in all other overseas possessions of France, the euro. The American dollar is accepted everywhere, in addition, most prices in shops on the island are indicated in this currency.

The southern, Dutch part of the island is an offshore zone.

The island has an international airport Princess Juliana (Princess Juliana International Airport), where liners fly 12 major air carriers, as well as numerous charters from the US and Canada. Landing in it is considered one of the most difficult, since the end of the runway adjoins the seashore, and the planes are forced to land literally over the heads of tourists resting on the beach, while the length of the runway itself is only 2180 m.

Today's Saint Martin is a resort and beach paradise for respectable travelers! These are not only snow-white beaches covered with fine-grained sand, luxurious coconut palms, exotic vegetation, colorful Creole houses and the transparent emerald-turquoise color of the warm Caribbean Sea. These are luxury hotels, movie star villas and numerous nudist beaches located along rugged coastlines, restaurants and nightlife, diving and deep-sea fishing (and the water here is clear to a depth of 100 meters!), beautiful Coral reefs, where many inhabitants of the underwater world are found. A truly small tropical paradise and luxuriously sophisticated tourist service.

Saint-Martin is two annual noisy carnivals: Mardi Gras on the French side and on the birthday of the monarch - on the Dutch side, art biennials, festivals of jazz and brass music. But it's still the annual global St. Maarten Heineken regatta, which has been running since 1980 and attracting over 200 yachts to participate! This is an annual race of 12-meter yachts and smaller boats.

Philippsburg is the Dutch capital of the island. This small town, located between Great Bay and Grand Etang, was founded in the XVII, and stretches along the sandy lagoon. To protect it, two ancient military fortresses were created - forts Amsterdam and William, built respectively in the XVII and XIX centuries. From the powerful guard walls and bastions, an amazing panorama opens not only on Saint Martin itself, but also on the nearby islands.

Here, in Philippsburg, the largest passenger port is located, where huge cruise liners call almost daily, and receives more than half a million tourists a year.

You will not find traditional Dutch architecture or “puppet” Amsterdam canals in Philippsburg, they simply do not exist here (only Old Street from the 17th century has miraculously preserved a few typical facades reminiscent of the distant land of tulips).

But there are more than 500 "Duty Free" stores, offering a large selection of jewelry, watches, electronics, clothing from the world's leading manufacturers, French perfumes, the best vintage wines and Havana cigars, located along the main trade artery - Front Street.

In the evening, with the onset of twilight, the island literally transforms. Hundreds of neon signs, casino lights (there are 13 of them on the island), strip bars, first-class nightclubs make you feel like in a real Las Vegas, only in miniature.

The Caribbean's largest lagoon, Simpson Bay, although landlocked except for two narrow canals with drawbridges, is large enough to be home to giant ocean-going yachts that either anchor at one of the plush piers or are at anchor. in her sheltered waters. Saint Martin has become the center of sailing in the Caribbean and the home port of some of the most outrageous mega-yachts.

Marigot - French capital islands. In Old French, this word meant "swamp", because once a swampy lowland came close to a convenient sea bay.

Appreciating the maritime superiority of this part of the island, the first settlers from France first had to drain the wetlands, which was successfully done. Now nothing reminds of marshy swamps. Today, Marigot attracts shopaholics who go not only to Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Cartier, Chopard brand stores on the main shopping street named after French President De Gaulle, but also in West Indies Shopping Mall, uniting over 50 boutiques under its roof. Numerous jewelery shops offer jewelery and watches from the most prestigious brands at duty-free prices.

Unlike the Dutch capital of the island, the French Marigot retained the charm of a provincial French town of the 18th-19th centuries. Windows with typical lattice balconies, stucco moldings on the houses, and the Parisian-style houses themselves. Street names familiar from Paris, in honor of the historical victories of France: rue de Rivoli, rue de Clichy, la rue de Sébastopol, rue de la Bastille, la place Napoléon. By the way, the French also have their own ancient fortress of Saint Louis, named after french king Louis XIII.

If the Dutch part of the island is the center of entertainment and nightlife, then the French, naturally, have no equal in gastronomy. 365 restaurants! Just think about this number! The island rightfully bears the title of "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean". But the small fishing village of Grand Case, which stretches along the azure bay, has a double title, which is considered the "gastronomic capital" of the entire Caribbean archipelago, since none of the nearby islands can even compete with the variety and sophistication of its restaurants.

Here you can find both ordinary restaurants and simpler restaurants, fashionable restaurants, and haute cuisine establishments with Michelin-star cuisine. Many of them were opened more than a quarter of a century ago, and, having overcome economic crises and competition, they still delight their visitors with gastronomic delights. The local chefs skillfully combine traditional European cuisine (French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch) with local Caribbean cuisine. And as a result, outlandish in taste, but very exquisitely refined dishes of French, Italian, Caribbean, Creole, Dutch, Indonesian, Japanese cuisine are born! Local shrimp, scallops, lobsters, crabs, mollusks, fish of more than 60 species are also popular here!

We are waiting for you at beautiful island Saint Martin

The islands have a total of 35 heavenly and absolutely unique beaches, which attract thousands of tourists every year. Saint Martin by right included in the list of 10 world resorts with the most beautiful beaches. real paradise for lovers of water sports - all kinds of water sports, such as diving, snorkeling, surfing, yachting, deep sea fishing, as well as a variety of water excursions.

Maho Bay is the main resort area of ​​Sint Maarten. Densely furnished with high-rise buildings, jewelry stores, art galleries, restaurants and casinos, the white stripe of the beach practically rests on runway local airport, so this area is widely known for its rather exotic spectacle - flying right over the heads of vacationers with huge passenger aircraft. To the north begins the wonderful beach of Mallet Beach, flowing into quiet beach Kapkoy, which is a set of ancient weathered cliffs, at the base of which small cozy bays with white sand lurk.

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