St Martin / Maarten is the smallest inhabited island in the world divided between two nations. The southern Dutch part belongs to the Netherlands Antilles, but current plans are to dismantle the Netherlands Antilles by October 2010, at which time Sint Maarten will take on separate country status. The northern French side, Saint Martin, is an overseas 'collectivité' of France and therefore considered part of Europe.
SXM has a land area of 87km2; 53km2 for the French side with its main town being Marigot and 34km2 for the Dutch, with Philipsburg as its 'capital'.
It is surrounded by the islands of Anguilla to the north, St Barths to the south-east and Saba, St Eustatius, St Kitts and Nevis to the south. All are accessible by boat or plane from SXM.You get fantastic views of St Barths from Orient Beach and Saba from Simpson Bay Beach.
The highest point on the island is a mere 424 metres and is named Pic Paradis (paradise point). There's a wonderful hike up to it which is highly recommend. You have to make your way to Loterie Farm, park there and take the fantastic trail up to the top. There have been muggings in that area in the past so it is always best not to take up any valuables on your hike. When you come back down make sure you try the wonderful restaurant at Loterie Farm or relax with a drink in the tree lounge, one of the best spots on island.
Sam Staley is a St Martin, St Maarten expert. He has lived on the island and knows it inside out. His travel guide SXM Uncovered lets you in on the destination's major attractions, best kept secrets and hidden gems. Check out this exclusive guide and get your free list of SXM Happy Hours on http://www.st-martin-maarten.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_Staley
SXM has a land area of 87km2; 53km2 for the French side with its main town being Marigot and 34km2 for the Dutch, with Philipsburg as its 'capital'.
It is surrounded by the islands of Anguilla to the north, St Barths to the south-east and Saba, St Eustatius, St Kitts and Nevis to the south. All are accessible by boat or plane from SXM.You get fantastic views of St Barths from Orient Beach and Saba from Simpson Bay Beach.
The highest point on the island is a mere 424 metres and is named Pic Paradis (paradise point). There's a wonderful hike up to it which is highly recommend. You have to make your way to Loterie Farm, park there and take the fantastic trail up to the top. There have been muggings in that area in the past so it is always best not to take up any valuables on your hike. When you come back down make sure you try the wonderful restaurant at Loterie Farm or relax with a drink in the tree lounge, one of the best spots on island.
Sam Staley is a St Martin, St Maarten expert. He has lived on the island and knows it inside out. His travel guide SXM Uncovered lets you in on the destination's major attractions, best kept secrets and hidden gems. Check out this exclusive guide and get your free list of SXM Happy Hours on http://www.st-martin-maarten.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_Staley