Explore Dutch Sint Maarten

The Dutch Sint Maarten has been, over the years, largely influenced by America. As one might expect, this side of the island has become more Americanised than the French side. You never have to walk too far before passing a fast food establishment or any number of other convenience stores. The Dutch Sint Maarten occupies about one third of the islands mass and has always been led by strong politicians with pro-business philosophies, which in turn has resulted in Sint Maarten becoming the Caribbean’s most successful open economy.

Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch Saint Maarten, is a bustling centre of international trade. The town is lively with something happening around every corner; shops, cafes, restaurants, hotels and bars. Philipsburg is also where world renowned luxury cruise liners dock briefly during their journey through the Caribbean. The giant floating hotels are impressive, both close up and from a distance.

World Famous Runway

Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) sits on the Dutch Sint Maarten side, on the south west coast. This is the second busiest airport in the hemisphere. A mere 3 hour flight stands between St Martin and many cities on the US east coast. Therefore, it’s not surprising that many Americans choose to holiday on the island. Regular flights come in and out of this busy airport every day. The airport and the planes that arrive/depart from it are a tourist attraction in themselves. SXM is built meters from the Maho Beach. Landing a plane on the runaway requires a pilot to literally skim above the heads of dozens of sunbathers on the beach. If you are brave enough to stand anywhere near the beach when a plane is coming in to land, you’re in for a big surprise.

By day, Dutch Sint Maarten is a tranquil paradise with over a dozen gorgeous beaches, stunning vistas, watersports, fantastic shops and an atmosphere, which is simply priceless. It offers everything you would possibly wish for from a Caribbean island. By night, it offers just as much. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll along colourful Front Street in Philipsburg, with its quaint ‘gingerbread’ houses, dancing the night away to the rhythms of local bands, going club crazy, or just kicking back and enjoying a sultry night of reggae and rum under a blanket of stars, the choice is endless.

Casinos

It is the Dutch Sint Maarten where you will find endless gambling venues and casinos. If this is what you are looking for then the French Saint Martin can’t compete as they simply don’t have a single casino. Head to Philipsburg and walk along Front Street where bright lights and noisy slot machines are bound to tempt you inside. The nightlife and casinos on the Dutch side are like an adults playground just waiting to be discovered.