27 janvier 2015

Information About And Things To Do In St Maarten

By Janine Hughes


If you are booking a holiday to the Caribbean, then you have to consider going to one island in particular. That island is St Maarten, a beautiful jewel located in the north east of the Caribbean sea, east to Puerto Rico. Divided into the French part - about sixty one percent - and the Dutch part - about thrity nine percent - this is a place you will not forget.

Because of this division, Dutch and French are obviously two languages you will hear when visiting. However, know that English is actually the most commonly spoken language by locals. There is also a local dialect based on creole French. You may hear another languages known as Papiamento, and this is spoken mainly by those who have migrated from neighbouring Caribbean islands like Aruba and also Curacao. All of this explains why the island is known by a variety of names, including SXM.

It is an extremely popular tourist destination and there is lots to do when visiting either part of the island, no matter what kind of holiday visitors are looking for. On the French side of the island, there are a number of nude beaches, outdoor markets and a host of Indian Caribbean and French cuisine, all of which this part of SXM is well known for. Meanwhile, the Dutch side of SXM boasts nightlife, casinos, jewelry, beaches and native rum.

There are a number of different forms of accommodation for visitors to SXM, including hotels, guesthouses, villas and also timeshares. All of these can be booked online or through a travel agent as part of a package. The Belmond La Samanna Resort & Spa is a five-star accommodation that offers the best in luxury on the island.

If you are going to partake in any of the island's plentiful activities, some of them must include the beach. There are 37 beaches to enjoy here, so whether you like watching the sunset, relaxing with a good drink, riding on horseback, deep sea fishing or scuba diving and snorkeling, you will find it here. There is hardly anything you cannot do on one of these amazing beaches.

Several day trips are available during a visit to this island. Prickly Pear Cay is the sister isle of Anguilla, and both of these gorgeous islands can easily be accessed. A package, which can cost upwards of one hundred US dollars, usually includes transportation by water, plus lunch, refreshments and snorkeling. Port fees are also included.

You can also take the catamaran to Anguila and visit Dolphin Discovery Anguilla, which is unforgettable. Here, you will get to swim with the dolphins and can partake in an activity with them as well. There are three activities available. You will also get to have lunch at one of Anguilla's best restaurants on the beach. All of this costs a little more than two hundred USD.

For less than one hundred USD, you can take a shore excursion around SXM itself. There are a range of prices with different things to see and do. These excursions are around 5 hours long. The pirate excursion is a great option for adventurers or young adults who won't mind the unlimited drinks part of the package.




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