Visit St. Maarten/ St. Martin

VISIT

OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE ST. MAARTEN HOSPITALITY & TRADE ASSOCIATION

St.Maarten / St.Martin

SHOPPING / DINING / ACTIVITIES / NIGHTLIFE / FAMILY FUN PROPERTY OF THE HOTEL PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE

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Dear Guest,

Welcome to St. Maarten/St. Martin!

We hope you enjoy your visit to our beautiful island. Whether this is your first time here or you are a returning visitor, a new adventure awaits! Our visitors are very important to us, and we put all our emphasis on ensuring that you have the best vacation experience in the Caribbean.

It is our hope that you take full advantage of our island’s wide array of charms, from the stunning beaches, world-class restaurants, vibrant nightlife, fun festivals, fascinating museums and exciting aquatic adventures to the enriching arts and culture. In addition, you can indulge in our duty-free status, so be sure to explore our many stores and find just the right gifts for you and your loved ones.

With more than 300 food and beverage establishments ranging from the very basic to a five-star dining experience, we are certain that your culinary journey will be one to remember. Our island boasts more than 120 nationalities, each one providing its own cultural culinary dishes. St. Maarten/St. Martin is truly a food lover’s paradise!

The property where you’re staying is most likely a member of the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA), the largest non-governmental organization private sector representative of our island’s business community. The SHTA works to promote not only tourism to the island but also to support key initiatives on St. Maarten/St. Martin.

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Anenda Zaandam Executive Director St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association

Our island’s long-term plan involves investing more in our most precious resources: our environment and our children. To that end, we advocate and promote various educational and vocational training programs, recycling measures, ecotourism and other projects to keep our beaches pristine, our marine life flourishing and our island’s harmonious living.

You can help with this. You may notice a dollar charge added to your bill for every day you spend at this property. This optional, voluntary contribution is to SHTA’s Dollar-aDay Fund that helps improve the lives of our children and our tourism product.

The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association invites you to enjoy our Friendly Island’s multiple charms, and we hope to see you again soon on our beautiful shores.

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Look for this Decal

While you are exploring the island, if you see this special sticker in the window of retailers, restaurants and businesses, it represents their involvement with the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) and this publication.

The SHTA takes great pride in its members and respecting and honoring the tourists who come to enjoy all that St. Maarten/St. Martin offers.

This special decal indicates that the business and/or organization in which it appears, is in good standing with the SHTA and strives to provide the visitor with professionalism, integrity and a wonderful experience on the island.

Enjoy your stay.

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VISIT

OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE ST. MAARTEN HOSPITALITY & TRADE ASSOCIATION

St.Maarten / St.Martin

2016 EDITION PUBLISHED FOR THE ST. MAARTEN HOSPITALITY & TRADE ASSOCIATION

PRESIDENT Lorraine Talmi

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Anenda Zaandam

EXECUTIVE BOARD Keith Graham, Treasurer Ricardo Perez, Secretary

EDITORIAL BOARD Ms. Joyce Arrindell, Student Coordinator at Sundial School Nancy Dorenkott, RE/MAX Island Properties Debby Lind-Steyn, Aqua Mania Adventures James Morris, Jimbo’s CaribMex Rock & Blues Cafe PUBLISHED BY

PRESIDENT Peter D. Savill

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Molina Santamaria ART DIRECTOR Derwent Donaldson

ADMINISTRATION Karen Hana, Ingrid James SALES Nikita Siem-A-Joe

FINANCE DIRECTOR Paul Lewis

ACCOUNT COORDINATORS Rosana Alfonso-Duell, Debra Jackson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patricia Cantor, Rajesh Chintaman, Abel Delgado, Nancy Dorenkott, Ariel Jamil, Montague Kobbe, Jeffrey Laign, Sharon Remy, Sir Roland Richardson, Alita Singh CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS J. Kevin Foltz, Maël Renault

NSN INTERNATIONAL LTD. P.O. Box 133, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands KY-1101 Tel: +1 345-949-7282, Email: info@northsouthnet.com

On the cover: Kayaking in Mullet Bay, photo by J. Kevin Foltz

Copyright 2016 by NSN International Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only.

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE

PRESIDENT & CEO Garry Duell, Jr.

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6055 SW 85 Avenue, Suite 100, Miami, Florida 33143 Email: gduell@northsouthnet.com

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CONTENTS

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WELCOME TO ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN Our island in the sun

STAY CONNECTED Discover all the idyllic experiences of St. Maarten/St. Martin and get social with us.

Follow the SHTA on Facebook: facebook.com/SHTA.SXM facebook.com/stmaartenauction facebook.com/crystalpineappleawards Websites shta.com visitstmaarten.com auctionsxm.com

Scan to view the digital edition of Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin magazine!

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EXPLORING THE ISLAND

Must-do activities and attractions

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SEASIDE SUPREMACY With 37 beaches to explore, you can’t go wrong

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CONTENTS

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MONUMENTAL HISTORY A look at the island’s historic roundabouts

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Unforgettable adventures on land and at seal

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MEET THE NEIGHBORS

St. Maarten/St. Martin is the perfect jumping-off point for island hopping

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MAPS OF ST.MAARTEN/ ST. MARTIN Find your way around the

island

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TREASURE HUNT Best places to shop for treasures during your visit

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VIBRANT EXPRESSIONS

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CULINARY CAPITAL

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PARTY IN PARADISE

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ROMANTIC RETREATS

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WELCOME HOME

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USEFUL INFORMATION

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Discover some of our talented artists across the island

Buying your very own piece of paradise in St. Maarten/St. Martin

Known for its creative culinary offerings, a delicious meal is never far away

Directory of SHTA members and practical information to help you navigate the island

Island nights are filled with music and fun for everyone

Island nights are filled with music and fun for everyone

From destination weddings to spa and wellness options, you’ve found the perfect getaway

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DIRECTORY OF SHTA MEMBERS

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editorial board

JOYCE ARRINDELL Student Coordinator, Sundial School

What do you like most about living in St. Maarten/St. Martin?

The easygoing nature of the people and the island itself, the fact that it truly is paradise and I have the opportunity to wake up and contribute towards keeping it a paradise, and the friendships, connections and culture. It’s home to me and, for that reason alone, I enjoy it.

What is a “must-do” experience for visitors?

An absolute must-do is the Walter Plantz Square on Front Street, where you can sample the various cuisines on the island! And if you are here during Carnival or the Heineken Regatta, you certainly must experience one of the greatest parties on earth.

Can you share one of St. Maarten/St. Martin‘s best-kept secrets?

One of the best-kept secrets is the Natural Pool in Point Blanche, which is a great hiking experience. The Emilio Wilson Park is a wonderful place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle.

And Mary's Fancy Plantation has beautiful flora!

What is still on your bucket list?

Skydiving, vacationing in the Pacific Islands and retiring at an early age.

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NANCY DORENKOTT Sales Manager, RE/MAX Island Properties

What do you like most about living in St. Maarten/St. Martin?

I love the fact that I can be on vacation in 15 minutes. It’s just a short drive to the beach and I feel like I am a world away from any of the stresses of normal daily life.

What is a “must-do” experience for visitors?

As touristy as it sounds, a sunset cruise. It allows you to see the island from the ocean, a completely different perspective.

Can you share one of St. Maarten/St. Martin's best-kept secrets?

Although you see the lovely sailboats off the shores of St. Maarten, I don't know if everyone truly understands what a sailing/yachting hub St. Maarten is. Whether you are interested in a day trip, sailing races, deep-sea fishing or just looking at the amazing mega yachts in the harbor, St. Maarten has something for every boater of every age. To see the Heineken Regatta every March never ceases to amaze me. The hundreds of boats as they sail around the island is an unbelievable sight.

What is still on your bucket list?

To go to Wimbledon. I play tennis regularly and I love to watch the matches on television, but I would be thrilled to actually go to Wimbledon.

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DEBBY LIND-STEYN Manager, Aqua Mania Adventures

What do you like most about living in St. Maarten/St. Martin?

St. Maarten is warm and friendly — you can reinvent yourself here!

What is a “must-do” experience for visitors?

We are water people.

Nothing attracts a visitor more than their first sight of St. Maarten’s turquoise water. Take a boat trip, go snorkeling and have some fun on the water.

Can you share one of St. Maarten/St. Martin’s best-kept secrets?

The hiking on St. Maarten is quite spectacular — it’s like hiking Saba’s rainforest, but not as steep. Loterie Farm and Wilderness are not to be missed.

What is still on your bucket list?

I’m living my bucket list here on St. Maarten…sun, sand, sea and mojitos!

JIM (JIMBO) MORRIS Owner, Jimbo’s CaribMex Rock & Blues Café

What do you like most about living in St. Maarten/ St. Martin?

The people, the weather and beautiful crystal-clear turquoise waters.

What is a “must-do” experience for visitors?

Set yourself free and take off that bathing suit! Jump into the warm Caribbean water on Orient Beach — why get your clothes wet?

Can you share one of St. Maarten/St. Martin's best-kept secrets?

There are numerous hiking trails which offer amazing views and sites that the average person doesn’t usually get to see.

What is still on your bucket list?

I live life to the fullest and don’t have a real bucket list… Mine is an everyday prayer to treat others with kindness and love.

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contributors

PATRICIA HONEYCUTT CANTOR and her husband, Richard, fell in love with St. Maarten/St. Martin and its amazing food scene and lifestyle more than 40 years ago. Two decades later, they bought a home here and divide their time between the island and New York. Pat has spent most of her professional life in the fashion and financial capitals of the United States and Europe. She is a founding partner of a new internet company, Vivinow.com, as well as a writer and marketing consultant. She was vice president and communications director for Lacoste U.S. and director of marketing and merchandising for Bazaar. Pat also serves on the Board for the French Lowlands Association of villa owners as well as educational and culture boards in the U.S.

RAJESH CHINTAMAN has been an editor at The Daily Herald in St. Maarten/St. Martin for over a decade.

He also serves as executive director of the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation and as vice president for Bishop Ellis Foundation for the Poor and Needy. He is a Paul Harris Fellow.

J. KEVIN FOLTZ is a wanderer. After having successful commercial photography studios in

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1 Nashville, Tenn., and Lima, Peru, he began specializing in location work for the custom publishing industry in the Caribbean and Latin America.

A recent six-year artist-inresidence at ArtCenter South Florida, he continues producing art and photography projects from Miami through monteisla.com.

MONTAGUE KOBBÉ is a German citizen with a Shakespearean name, born in Caracas, in a country that no longer exists, in a millennium that is long gone. He is the author of the novel The Night of the Rambler and the bilingual collection of flash fiction Tales of Bed Sheets and Departure Lounges. He has written a column in St. Maarten/St. Martin’s The Daily Herald since 2008 and has translated more than 20 photography books with Spanish publisher La Fábrica.

His new novel, On the Way Back, was released in February 2016.

JEFFREY LAIGN has reported from more than 75 countries for a variety of newspapers and magazines.

The author of several books, Laign also has created custom publications for some of the world’s largest cruise

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1. Alita Singh 2. Jeffrey Laign 3. Rajesh Chintaman 4. Montyague Kobbé, 5. Patricia Cantor 6. J. Kevin Foltz 7. Maël Renault

lines, airlines, resorts and destinations, and helped to launch New York Times bestsellers such as Chicken Soup for the Soul.

MAËL RENAULT is a freelance photographer from Brittany, France, currently living in the beautiful Caribbean. He has captured the various landscapes of his travels through Europe, Canada, United States and Caribbean. His favorite subject is wildlife, and he feels a deep responsibility for environmental preservation and education.

Guyana-born ALITA SINGH is a senior journalist at The Daily Herald newspaper in St. Maarten/St. Martin and a freelancer for travel and trade publications. She is an environmental activist and president of Island Gems Charity Foundation.

Alita recently co-edited St. Maarten chef Dino Jagtiani’s Temptation Restaurant Cookbook. She has appeared on HGTV’s House Hunters International and was Miss November in the I Love My Island Dog Calendar.

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Welcome to Our Island Paradise!

Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, we’re delighted to welcome you to the “Friendly Island.” We hope you enjoy this issue of Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin, which is full of useful information about the island’s best offerings, including beaches, dining and nightlife, shopping, sports and activities, arts and culture, weddings and more.

In addition to offering Caribbean, Dutch and French cultures, St. Maarten/St. Martin has distinct areas with their own respective flavors. Among the main areas are Philipsburg, Marigot, Cupecoy, Maho, Grand Case, Orient Bay, Oyster Pond, Simpson Bay and Cole Bay. Since you are likely staying in one of these areas, we’ve divided the dining and shopping sections by area to make things easier to find.

This magazine is published in partnership with the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), many of whose members are great supporters of Visit St. Maarten/ St. Martin.

If you’d like to find out more information about the island and access some special deals, please go to visitstmaarten.com, where you’ll find the digital edition of this publication for you to easily download to your mobile device.

Enjoy your stay and we look forward to welcoming you Photo by IStock

back soon.

The Visit St. Maarten/St. Martin Team

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Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

Welcome to St.Maarten/St.Martin

Even though it is only 37 square miles, St. Maarten/St. Martin is packed with rich history, breathtaking beaches, family-oriented attractions and activities and a lively arts and culture scene.

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exploring the island

Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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Landing at Princess Juliana International Airport, photo by Mael Renault

exPloring The iSland

Sights

You Can’t Miss Make sure your itinerary includes these incredible island adventures. St. Maarten/ St. Martin offers a multitude of activities for individuals, couples and families. The options run the gamut from highly skilled and physical to laid-back and relaxing.

Meet the fishy residents below the waves, fly through the treetops with the birds and take a leisurely stroll in the heart of Philipsburg to uncover designer treasures and very big precious rocks.

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S

participate in the spectacle from a safe distance. tart off your day on the French side at the If planes are your thing, head over to the Grand Case Butterfly Farm St. Martin on Le Galion Beach Airport on the French side for a flying lesson. Aeroclub Saint Road. These winged creatures awake early to Martin SFG Flight Academy is open daily and welcomes expert greet the sun. Wear bright clothing and a and amateur pilots. The academy has skilled instructors who put citrusy fragrance to attract them for an upsafety and security first. close and personal visit that will make your Prefer to stay close to the ground? Rent a Harleyheart take flight. The farm is opened daily Davidson bike from Super Bike and tour the island. The H.O.G from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Chapter of the St. Maarten Caribbean Eagles Motorcycle Club Conquer the highest point on the organizes regular rides around the island as well as special tours. island, Pic Paradis, with a trip to Loterie Farm Club members are always eager to meet fellow bike enthusiasts. in Rambaud. Nestled in the hills, this ecoIt takes a true adventurer to head on to the naturist half sanctuary was once a plantation. Today, the of Orient Bay. There, sunbathers and swimmers shed all hard workers are the thrill seekers at FlyZone, swimwear and banish tan lines. Beachgoers wear nothing but which lets you fly through the trees on ziplines. their smile on this section of the beach that abuts the island’s Hikers can climb to the summit of Pic Paradis nudist resort, Club Orient. No cameras are allowed here. If and look down upon the rolling hills and neighborhoods, some of you’re more conservative, stick to the clothed side of the beach which grew out from the island’s first settlements. After working and explore the many restaurants and options for watersports. up a sweat, relax in the Treetop Lounge by the pool or grab a Absorb some of the island’s history by climbing to Fort gourmet meal from the Forest Café.

Louis, which overlooks the French side capital of Marigot and Next, escape on horseback on the Dutch side at Seaside out to the British dependency of Anguilla. This fort was built Nature Park in Cay Bay. The park is a refuge from the everyday by the French to keep Anguilla from the meddling English, who grind. Get paired up with a trusty steed and set off to conquer the were always trying to capture this strategically located island. hillside around the farm and nearby Cay Bay Beach. There are On the Dutch side, head to Front Street to the St. Maarten some 50 horses here, plus other animals (a llama is coming soon).

Museum to learn about the centuries of peaceful coexistence and Not into horsing around? The park also offers the possibility to go that free border of this unique dual-personality island. hiking and kayaking. There are always fun activities for children.

Speaking of dual personality, stop at the Cole Leave the land behind and dive under the Bay/Bellevue Border Point to experience standing white-capped waves to enter Man of War Shoal in two European countries at the same time National Marine Park. Established in 2010, the without setting foot outside the Caribbean. This marine park covers 12 square miles and is home to border point and the one at Belvedere/ Belle Plaine some of the island’s last pristine reef areas. Divers are reminders that this 37-square-mile island is the are surrounded by the natural wonders of the smallest piece of land in the Caribbean shared by ocean and the marine history in the park. Proselyte two European nations.

Reef, the site where a Spanish warship sank in No trip to St. Maarten/St. Martin is complete 1801, has artifacts such as anchors, cannons, without a treasure hunt. Front Street, the main cannon balls and pottery on display like an drag of Philipsburg, can be likened to the big “X” underwater museum. Seek out the treasure of the on a pirate’s treasure map. The street is lined with deep via The Scuba Shop in Simpson Bay or jewelry stores and luxury boutiques. Whether you Ocean Explorers Dive Center. seek a charm for a reminder of times spent on The ultimate adventure when visiting the these shores, a pavé-cut diamond to pop the big island is experiencing the famous “plane blow” question or a gift just because, Front Street is safely. The island’s main airport, Princess worth a look.

Juliana International Airport, has one of the With English as the common tongue in St. shortest runways in the world. That leads to Maarten/St. Martin, it is easy to overlook Dutch pilots having to rev their engines to gain and French, the two other official languages momentum. The resulting plane blow — a heavy here. Why not take a totally different souvenir blast of air — sends people lounging on nearby home by learning some phrases in those Maho Beach flying with the sensation of being languages? Who knows, maybe it will inspire part of a sandstorm. Some thrill seekers cross the you to learn a new language. For now, try what road to hang on the airport fence as they get up Butterfly, photo by Mael Renault Right: Fort Louis, photo by J. Kevin Foltz we say to you: Welcome! Welkom! Bienvenue! close. However, it is recommended to watch or

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exploring the island

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All forFun

Fun ForAll

Families will discover a trove of attractions on this Dutch/French island. — By JeFF lAIGn

Casinos, clubs and celebrity-studded beaches not withstanding, St. Maarten/St. Martin is perhaps the family-friendliest island in the Caribbean. Children and grown-ups alike will discover a trove of attractions and activities on both the dutch and French sides of this island paradise.

t’s not surprising that shore-loving families flock to this island, which boasts 37 stunning beaches — one for every square mile — and a multitude of watersports.

From snorkeling and diving to boating, surfing and deep-sea fishing, there’s something here to please every aquatic-minded member of the family.

There are just as many land-based attractions for young ones and adults. Just imagine yourself horseback riding along a coastal trail, ziplining across a canopy of tropical trees or whale-spotting at a secluded nature reserve.

What’s more, several island resorts offer fully supervised, smile-raising programs that will delight need-a-break parents as much as their wanna-have-fun kids. Mom and dad can let go of workaday worries on a sun-kissed beach while their little ones have a ball under the watchful eyes of club counselors.

It’s not uncommon for couples who honeymoon on St. Maarten/St. Martin to return a few years later with their children. The generational draw of this island is a testament to its wealth of diverse attractions and activities. Here are just a few that are sure to please any fun-seeking family.

St. Maarten Zoo. Who doesn’t appreciate a close encounter (at a safe distance) with some of the less-familiar creatures that share our planet? Make nice with a macaw. Cotton up to a cottontop tamarin. Get to know a green vervet monkey. Snap a selfie with rarely encountered bush dogs from Central and South America. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. stmaartenzoo.com

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The Butterfly Farm/La Ferme des Papillons. Grandma and grandpa will love the look of amazement on little ones’ faces as they are greeted by a rainbow of fluttering wings. The best time to capture that video is morning, when butterflies are fully rested and ready to rock. To enhance the photo opp, dress the kids in their brightest T-shirts; butterflies are crazy for color. For an up-close shot of an iridescent Blue Morpho, or any of the exotic species here, plan to arrive later in the day, when pooped-out butterflies are in the mood for a nice nap. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. thebutterflyfarm.com Plane Fun. Here’s a cheap thrill. Spread your towel on Maho Bay Beach late in the afternoon and expect your jaw to drop when jumbo jets roar a mere 30 feet above your head as they come in for a landing at adjacent Princess Juliana International Airport. More than likely, your kids will scream in mock terror as they grin with delight. Why not join them in a rollercoaster-worthy yell?

The Carousel. Somehow a little piece of Venice made its way to Simpson Bay. Old World-style hobbyhorses and ornate Italian tiles enchant against a tropical backdrop of colorful hibiscus blooms and breeze-tossed palms. Kids of all ages will delight in time traveling back to a gentler, slower-paced era. After the music stops, treat the family to an authentic Italian gelato or homemade profiterole. Open Monday through Thursday from 2 to 10:30 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 2 to 11 p.m. carouselstmaarten.com

Left: Photo © St. Maarten Tourist Bureau Bottom left: Snorkeling, photo by Rhino Safari Top right: Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

KID-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS

Enjoying activities with your children engenders memories to last a lifetime, but sometimes parents want a little us-time away from the kids. St. Maarten/St. Martin rolls out a roster of resorts with clubs that cater to kids.

With no worries about rug rats, happily paroled parents can spend sorely needed adult time shopping in town, discovering a dive site or snoozing on a sunny beach. The kids, meanwhile, are busy crafting palm-frond baskets or building fanciful fortresses of sand. In fact, they may be having such a good time that they beg to stay longer when you pick them up later.

If your island getaway includes a brood in tow, consider roosting at one of the islands’ kid-friendly resorts.

With, sunny shores flanking both ends of this well-known family hotel, the Grand Case Beach Club features a variety of non-motorized watersports and activities. Little ones can spend hours playing with sand toys or searching for treasures on a scavenger hunt. Older kids can take out kayaks and pedal boats, or ride the waves on flotation mats.

At the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, youngsters ages 4 to 12 are welcomed at the Maho Bungalow Kids’ Club, where adult supervisors keep them busy with a slew of things to do, including bingo games, pool volleyball matches and ping pong competitions.

Pretend-pirates ages 4 to 12 will discover a trove of fun-filled activities at the Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, where you can enroll them in Divi’s Treasures of the Caribbean program. Experienced, kids-at-heart supervisors lead little ones on beachy outings, teach them how to craft cool stuff and get them going with all sorts of engaging games.

Many hotels and resorts offer kids’ programs and activities so be sure to inquire in advance so your little ones don’t miss out on all the fun.

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Left: Loterie Farm, photo courtesy of Loterie Farm Right: Girl on Zipline, photo courtesy of Loterie Farm

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St. Martin National Nature Reserve.

Frigate birds, northern gannets, brown pelicans and sea turtles are just some of the creatures that make their home on more than 7,000 pristine acres in this protected northeastern portion of the island. Post perfect photos of craggy cliffs, hike along winding, hillside trails and tweet your impressions of breathtaking coastlines. If you’re lucky, you may catch an offshore glimpse of frolicking dolphins or spouting humpback whales. reservenaturelle-saint-martin.com Loterie Farm and Fly Zone. This sugar-plantation-turned-ecologicalshowcase is one of the biggest island draws for grown-ups and kids. Hike through a forest in the mountainous shadow of Pic du Paradis (Paradise Peak) as you soak up spectacular views of Marigot and Anguilla.

Then hook up with harness and cable at the popular Fly Zone, where you can soar

through mango and mahogany treetops.

Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. loteriefarm.com Seaside Nature Park. A former plantation, the park now offers 30 acres of fun in the form of stables, kayaks, trails, a playground and petting zoo, where you can cozy up to cuddly rabbits or sharpen your iguana-spotting skills. Stroll among free-roaming horses or saddle up for a family ride. seasidenaturepark.com St. Maarten Marine Park. Surrounding the entire Dutch side of the island, this park is a haven for wildlife either on land or under the waves. Resident and migratory birds flock around the clock at Pelican Rock. At 28 dive sites, including Molly Beday and Hens and Chicks, you’re apt to spot long-spined urchins, plumed moray eels and a bevy of other beasties that hang out beneath the waves. naturefoundationsxm.org

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HIDDEN TREASURES OF AN ISLAND

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THERE BE DRAGONS

Iguanas make up part of the wondrous fauna of the island.

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by alita singh

For many, the mention of the word “dragon” conjures images of Game of Thrones’ fierce trio of fire-breathing creatures: Drogon, Rhaegal and Viserion. But on St. Maarten/St. Martin, there are too many dragons to name.

But when we say dragons, we mean their real-life cousins: iguanas.

The island has long been home to these miniature prehistoric-looking animals with barbs on their heads, long whipping tails and movement reminiscent of Jurassic Park residents. Like most animals on St. Maarten/St. Martin, they are cared for and protected.

Found in the hills, in mangroves and an occasional house porch, iguanas do not breathe fire or attack humans. In fact, they are usually afraid of people. There are two species of iguanas here and any visit to the island is sure to bring you close to one of these magnificent creatures.

The green iguana (Iguana iguana) a large, arboreal, mostly herbivorous species of lizard is native to Latin America and the Caribbean. They have a row of spines along their backs and along their tails that helps to protect them from predators.

The Lesser Antillean iguana (Iguana delicatissima) is an endangered species.

This iguana is rare and there is ongoing research to map the species. You’ll know if you are lucky enough to see one of these mangrove dwellers by noticing its greyish skin with green splotching on the underside and large ivory-colored scales on its head.

Iguanas are very good at blending into their environment. They are perfectly camouflaged in branches of trees or other vegetation, and are not spotted unless they are strolling across a porch or the road. There is danger when these creatures decide to saunter across the island’s roadways. Most drivers upon spotting an iguana attempting to cross the road halt their vehicle and wait for the creature to get to the other side. However, as happens when nature and human collide, the iguana is sometimes the victim.

So be on the lookout for crossing iguanas and remember to slow down.

In many other places in the Caribbean, iguanas can be found as a delicacy on restaurant menus. However, St. Maarten/St. Martin, although it is a culinary destination, does not have restaurants serving “dragons.”

by rajesh chintaman

It’s always good to get the guidance of a local when visiting a destination. To discover St. Maarten/St. Martin like a local, venture out on the path least traveled and return with an unforgettable experience. Most visitors are attracted like butterflies to the Marigot Waterfront Market on the French side, with its colorful array of goods and delights. Locals usually head out to this market early on a Saturday morning in time to see the fishermen lug their fresh catch off the fishing boats. The freshest fish are quickly sold and whisked way. Get to the market early, hook your fish and, if you have the option, cook it yourself.

Prefer your fish ready to eat? Walk over to the waterfront restaurants that are located a stone’s throw from the market.

They have a wonderful variety of fish prepared à la carte. For a truly Creole breakfast or lunch, stop by Sandy’s Waterfront Bar or Enoch’s Place.

The rolling hills of the island are enchanting to look at from the valleys. Locals love to hike to the summits and get sweeping views of their island. SXM Trails, an avid hiking group of local adventurers, invites visitors to join them on a walk and uncover the craggy shoreline and tucked-away natural pools.

Living in the sunshine year-round, locals are passionate about ice cream and gelatos. The island boasts a number of excellent dessert parlors, where batches of creamy and fruity goodness are made fresh every day. Carousel Gelateria Bar in Simpson Bay is a treat for the children and adults. It is home to the only carousel on the island! For people watching and shop browsing, join the local crowd at Gio’s Gelateria and Caffé in Maho Village. For the ultimate experience, enjoy ice cream made the old-fashioned way — churned in a wooden bucket — at Lolo’s in Grand Case Village.

S’maartiners are proud of their rich culture and artistic talents, which span dance, poetry, drama and spoken word. Throughout the year, the Philipsburg Community and Culture Center has a packed weekend agenda. Locals are keen to support the island’s young artists and are very proud of those who have gone abroad to carve out a name for themselves, like acclaimed Broadway dancer Nicole de Weever.

When on vacation on St. Maarten/St. Martin, it’s easy to think it’s happy hour all day. But for locals, the happiest of hours is Friday afternoon after the typical workday ends. That’s when the party starts on the boardwalk in Philipsburg. Visit the bars and restaurants on the mile-long stretch and hobnob with the locals, get all the hot gossip (or mêlée, as it is called here), absorb the live music, drink specials and delicious food.

The beaches of St. Maarten/St. Martin offer refuge every nesting season (April to November) to endangered species of sea turtles. Guided by Nature Foundation St. Maarten, residents take up the charge to be part of the Sea Turtle Watch, which combs designated beaches to identify and protect nests and track hatchings. The foundation also runs a host of programs throughout the year.

What’s the best way to explore and experience St. Maarten/ St. Martin like a local? Ask one! The island’s apt nickname of “The Friendly Island” genuinely reflects the warm and helpful nature of the people who live on this pearl in the Caribbean.

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Seaside

Supremacy No matter which beach you choose to visit, you won’t go wrong. The Caribbean is full of beaches, but none like those you’ll find in St. Maarten/St. Martin.

— By jeff laigN

Mullet Bay, Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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Beaches

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Friar’s Bay Beach, Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

I

f you’re like thousands of tourists who visit this island paradise each year, you’ve probably come here to enjoy the sort of beach getaway that can only be found here. But what really sets St. Maarten/St. Martin apart from other islands is the variety of its sun, sand and sea offerings. Variety really is the spice of life in this dual-culture destination, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the beach. Shoreside colors range from sparkling white to coral pink and even volcanic black. The sand may be as soft as powder or as sensual as sifted sugar.

The island offers beaches to suit every sort of sun lover, from honeymooners and long-married couples to nature enthusiasts and families with little kids.

Here are some of our top picks for best beaches on the Dutch and French sides of this multifaceted island. No matter which you choose, you won’t go wrong. On St. Maarten/St. Martin, there’s no such thing as a bad beach day.

BEST BEACH FOR FAMILIES

St. Maarten, Little Bay Beach: The Fort Amsterdam peninsula separates Little Bay from Great Bay, making the waters of this southwestern beach calm. The area is a haven for birds thanks to conservation efforts. The powdery, white-sand beach offers several sporting amenities, such as paddle boats, Jet Skis and parasailing opportunities. You’re also close to the shops, restaurants and historic attractions of Philipsburg.

St. Martin, Le Galion/Galion Beach: Take your cue from locals: parents and kids who make their homes on the island tend to flock to this eastern beach for holiday celebrations. The beach, whose shallow water is protected from rough ocean currents, features all sorts of activities for grown-ups and kids alike, including kayaking, canoeing and windsurfing.

BEST BEACH FOR ROMANCE St. Maarten, Cupecoy Beach: Dramatic ochre-colored cliffs embrace a richly carpeted coral-sand shore at the southwestern corner of the island. Magnificent sunsets wash across cave-peppered sandstone formations towering 20 feet above the surf. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the fabled Green Flash as the sun sinks below the horizon. Legend has it that those who spot this fleeting atmospheric phenomenon will enjoy everlasting love.

St. Martin, Lovers’ Beach: The beach owes its name to a local wit who noted that it was barely big enough to accommodate

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BEACHES

more than one couple at a time. To reach this small stretch of sand on the northeastern edge of the island, you have to follow a trail and amble down a steep incline, but the secluded ambience is a mood enhancer.

BEST BEACH FOR SNORKELING St. Maarten, Dawn Beach: Rent your gear here on the eastern side of the island and swim out to a spectacular coral reef. Later, you can relax under a beach umbrella on sugary sand as you enjoy the hilly skyline of neighboring St. Barth. Come at sunrise if you need proof that this beach is aptly named.

St. Martin, Ile de Pinel/Pinel Island: Head for Cul de Sac on the north side and hop aboard a traditional boat called a saintoise for a five-minute ride to this protected point of sand surrounded by pristine, shallow water. Follow the snorkel trail to explore the coral reefs. Or simply stretch out and relax, as locals do on weekends.

BEST BEACH FOR SURFING

St. Maarten, Mullet Bay: Waves curl and crash against this wide, moon-shaped stretch of white sand fringed by shady palms and seagrape trees on the western coast. Its crystalline waters are excellent for swimming, but bring a buddy if you’re venturing farther out, where rip currents are periodically reported.

St. Martin, Baie aux Prunes/Plum Bay: Locals like to ride the swells at this secluded golden-sand beach at the western tip of the island near Baie Longue/Long Bay. There are no amenities here, unless you count the enchanting view of Saba.

BEST BEACH FOR FOODIES St. Maarten, Simpson Bay Beach: More than a mile long, this wide, flat, white-sand beach has a secluded feel but is within close range of a number of restaurants, bars and casinos. It’s in the southwest, near Princess Juliana International Airport, but not under the flight path of noisy jets coming in for a landing.

St. Martin, Plage de Grand Case/Grand Case Beach: You won’t go hungry on the French northern end of the island, which is famed the world over for its wealth of gourmet restaurants and local grills known as lolos. Eateries line Grand Case Boulevard at the heart of a picturesque fishing village. Walk the mile-long beach and work up an appetite as you take in the sunset and spectacular views of Anguilla.

BEST BEACH FOR SHOPPERS

St. Maarten, Great Bay: Just four streets deep and one mile long, Philipsburg offers duty-free shop after shop along the boardwalk that fronts this heart-of-town beach. This is the place VISIT S TMAAR TEN.COM

to pick up island crafts or goods imported from the Netherlands.

St. Martin, Anse Marcel: You’re in no danger of maxing out your credit card if you visit this white, sandy beach on the northwestern coast. But the full-service marina here is worth a stroll for its café, convenience store and handful of boutique shops.

BEST BEACH FOR PEOPLE WATCHERS

St. Maarten, Maho Beach: Carry a camera or use your phone to capture the awed expressions of tourists who teem here in late afternoon when jumbo jets fly right over you as they touch down at adjacent Princess Juliana International Airport.

Hang onto your hat, or lose it to the blowing blast of a Boeing 747.

St. Martin, Baie Orientale/Orient Beach: You also may want to snap away if you visit the northeastern St. Tropez of the Caribbean, a Riviera-like stretch of white powder that tends to attract celebrities and jet-setters. But bag the camera if you decide to venture to the far southern end of the two-mile-long beach, where unclothed fellow sun worshippers are found.

Watersports reign supreme, while bars and restaurants right on the sand offer endless opportunities for hanging out.

BEST BEACH FOR CREATURE WATCHERS

St. Maarten, Geneve Bay: Reaching this rugged black-rock beach on the southeastern coast near Philipsburg requires an hour-long coastal hike from Guana Bay through evergreen shrub land. You’ll be rewarded for your effort with photogenic geological formations, brown pelicans and melonshaped melocactus plants.

St. Martin, Petites Cayes: To get to this pristine northern spot, you must take a boat or take on a challenging 35-minute hike along the coast or across the cliffs and rocks of a nature preserve. Hillside views of the beach and Anguilla are sure to please photographers.

BEST BEACH FOR GETTING AWAY St. Maarten, Guana Bay: Picturesque and unspoiled, this quiet, secluded beach northeast of Philipsburg hugs a long, wide bay. Supply yourself with sundries. There VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Top-L: Great Bay Top-R: Anse des Sable Beach Bottom-L: Le Galion Beach Below-R: Snorkeling in Cupecoy Photos by J. Kevin Foltz

are no amenities here, but you’ve got a great view of St. Barth’s, just 15 miles off shore. Don’t try to swim there, though. Currents can be strong in deep waters.

St. Martin Baie Lucas/Lucas Bay: Exposed to Atlantic swells and strong winds, this white-sand beach on the southeastern coast draws few visitors even though it’s not that far from urban development. Snorkelers will enjoy coral and rock formations in water sometimes shallow enough to permit walking to a small island off shore.

BEST BEACH FOR PARTIERS

St. Maarten Kim Sha Beach: Bars here serve up magnificent sunsets with guava-berry coladas, making this extension of Simpson Bay Beach a great choice for happy hour gatherings. Of course, happy hour on this island is any time you say it is. Raise a glass with old pals and toast the new friends you’re sure to make.

St. Martin, Anse des Peres/ Friar’s Bay: By day, it’s a small, family-oriented beach with good views of Anguilla. But after the sun goes down, restaurants and bars draw crowds to the sheltered northwest coast for live music and notto-be-missed full moon parties. Let yourself howl.

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BE SEA SAFE

St. Maarten/St. Martin is the ultimate Caribbean beach destination, but fun in the sun can spell trouble for water lovers who fail to fully appreciate the capricious power of Mother Nature. Many of the most popular beaches on each side of the island feature waters that are calm and protected from ocean swells, but some beaches, especially secluded ones, may be challenging for children and lessconfident adult swimmers. And remember, the welcoming sun can turn on you if you’re not careful.

Here are a few safety tips for beachgoers.

Bone up. Before leaving home, read about the destination and the conditions you will encounter on the sand and in the water. Snorkelers may want to refer to a laminated guide to marine life. You’ll be able to identify the colorful fish you’ll encounter and avoid less-pleasant denizens, such as stinging jellyfish.

Cover up. It feels great to bask on the beach, but the tropical sun can be brutal. Apply sunscreen liberally, shade yourself under a beach umbrella and wear a hat and sunglasses if you’re planning to be out for awhile.

Cozy up. Don’t overdo your first few beach visits. Gradually increase the time you spend at the shore. A little sun goes a long way here.

Buddy up. Swimming with a friend is always a good idea for grown-ups as well as children.

Currents can be strong at some beaches, especially those frequented by surfers, body boarders and nature lovers. If you can’t bring a friend, then consider hanging out at one of the larger, more populous beaches.

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history

Monumental

History

A celebration of island life can be found in the roundabouts across the island. — By MontAgue KoBBÊ

Historic roundabouts, photos by J. Kevin Foltz

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if history is the collective narrative of a people’s journey through time, the authorities in st. Maarten/ st. Martin have encouraged over the past two decades the dissemination of a narrative that is alternative not only in its focus but also in the means used to spread it: through the construction of monuments in a number of roundabouts across the island. Commissioning statues to celebrate significant figures of any given community is hardly a revolutionary concept, but the choice of subjects is not only unusual, but also commendable. he island’s most famous sculpture is Lady Liberty by Bulgarian artist theo Bonev in the Agrément roundabout. the lady in question is a beautiful black woman well into adulthood who leads the way guided by the light from her gas lamp. Unveiled on July 12t, 2007, on the 159th anniversary of the final abolishment of slavery in all French territories in 1848, this deeply symbolic work occupies a special place in the hearts of s’martiners. the issue of slavery was particularly complicated on st.

Maarten/st. Martin since the Dutch did not end the exploitative practice until 1863.

Along the same lines is the statue of onetété Lokay in the Belair roundabout. it depicts an idealized image of a brave young woman who, legend has it, escaped from a plantation on the Dutch side and was recaptured and mutilated. one of her breasts was then cut off as punishment, hence the nickname, “one-tété.” resilient and determined, Lokay confronted the cruelty of her oppressors with dignity and escaped to the hills above Cole Bay, where she lived the rest of her life. one-tété Lokay’s is one of the most beautiful and widely spread legends in st. Maarten/st. Martin passed down through oral tradition. in 2006, the government acknowledged this narrative by commissioning Nigerian sculptor Michael Meghiro to produce this statue. it shows young Lokay carrying a bundle of cane sticks on her shoulders, racing toward the hills. the history of st. Maarten/st. Martin is also the subject of one of the most attractive sculptural groups on the island, the salt Pickers in the roundabout on Walter Nisbeth road with D.A. Peterson street, opposite the Great salt Pond in Philipsburg. this group composition, also created by Michael Meghiro, depicts five figures: two of them gathering salt, two others transporting it, and a man in the middle with a shovel in VISIT S TMAAR TEN.COM

Historic site of Fort Amsterdam, photo by J. Kevin Foltz

hand. Salt is central to culture of the island; it was once known as Soualiga (“land of salt”) by the Caribs who first inhabited it. Indeed, it was interest in salt picking that first brought the Dutch to the island, a profitable industry that continued in some form or another until the 20th century.

And yet, the most remarkable aspect of local efforts to emphasize the island’s unique history is the initiative to immortalize significant members of the community whose role was more prosaic, more regular as it were, than the average role model’s. Rather than celebrating the life of politicians, soldiers or business moguls, S’martiners have taken to commemorating the feats of the unsung heroes of their communities.

That precisely is the purpose of the three statues on the Belvedere roundabout, depicting Tata the Bus Driver, Alec the Butcher and Lalie.

There is no caveat to this tribute: Tata really was a school bus driver, known VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

for his emphasis on discipline even on the bus; Alec really raised animals and sold fresh meat for a living; and Lalie was a baker, though she’s best remembered for her ability to take care of those in need, including local and foreign students in St. Maarten/St. Martin. Construction of the roundabout and the three sculptures took 12 years and cost the government close to $3 million before being completed in 2009.

Similar proposals include the erection of the statue of Osborne Kruythoff, a colorful character who appointed himself as the first and only traffic warden on the island back in the days when there were just a couple hundred cars, and the more controversial three-piece group honoring the official bird of the nation, the pelican, at the airport roundabout.

Make sure to keep an eye out for these and many other celebrations of island life as you drive around the island.

TALES FROM THE PAST

CULTURAL ICON

Even the cays offshore have colorful histories.

TINTAMARRE: The Rogue Kingdom

Located just two knots east of French Cul-de-Sac, Tintamarre is a flat island of one square mile. It couldn’t appear more insignificant. But nothing could be

history

The Methodist Church in Philipsburg is a direct connection to the island’s cultural history.

PINEL: What’s in a Name

Though the waters around St. Maarten/St. Martin are peppered with a dozen small islets, few of them are enjoyed more by locals than Îlet Pinel.

Since 2004 this tiny speck of land — roughly a quarter of a square mile in size — has been in the island’s protected marine park. But where did Pinel get its name?

Captain M. Pinel was a French filibuster who in 1688 used the Nine Years’ War as an excuse to raid Saba.

He seized a ship headed for the island and dropped anchor at Fort Bay, shrouded by the darkness of the night.

Pinel and his men were already halfway up the path to The Bottom when his original ship reached Fort Bay — taking his crew by surprise, as he had not yet given the signal for it to approach. A skirmish ensued, which alerted the settlers of Saba that something was wrong. At the time, the island’s sole system of defense was a series of large boulders placed next to the path and held by wooden planks which could be let loose. The locals slipped the wedges out of their place and let the boulders roll downhill, chasing Pinel and his gang.

Legend has it that the captain headed back to St. Maarten/St. Martin in the middle of the night and that, unsighted, his boat ran aground just outside the bay of Cul-de-Sac. Pinel had managed to be repelled, strand his ship and secure the legacy of his name for centuries to come, all in a single night!

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farther from the truth! Home to a considerable colony of Frenchmen in the 18th century, Tintamarre was also the unlikely headquarters of the first aviation enterprise in the region, Rémy de Haenen’s Compagnie Aérienne Antillaise which flew more or less regularly from 1946 to 1948.

But the real days of splendor in the small cay date back to the beginning of the 20th century, when Diederik Christian van Romondt left his home in St. Maarten and moved permanently to his personal island. It all started when tax legislation in Dutch St. Maarten was changed, introducing a controversial Gebruiksbelasting (use tax) on all properties in 1908. Van Romondt refused to pay the tax, and opted instead to lock up his estate, Mary’s Fancy, and depart for Tintamarre.

There, he built a wooden manor house surrounded by stone walls and raised cattle, engaged a couple dozen laborers, grew cotton, circulated his own currency and established a rogue kingdom. His move was so notorious that on August 23, 1913, Paris’ Le Journal ran a charming little story about him titled “Le Roi de Tintamarre.”

Halfway down the commercial heartland of Philipsburg — a buzzing, searing, thrilling urban center — the staggering Methodist Church stands out on Front Street for its trademark beauty and simplicity. It’s living proof of the unique bond Methodism has specifically developed with the local population on this island.

Methodism arrived in the Caribbean in the late 18th century with foreign preachers concerned with the condition of the souls of slaves. In St. Maarten/St. Martin, however, the first experience of Methodism was orchestrated by John Hodge, a free black Anguillan convert whose work in the region proved tremendously influential. But while in most islands Methodism was embraced enthusiastically by the slaves, in St. Maarten/St. Martin it was the white elite, led

by Governor Diederik Johannes van Romondt, who gravitated toward the reformed Anglican religion.

The church demonstrates the popularity the new faith attained on St. Maartern/St. Martin in such little time. John Hodge brought Methodism to the island (to Marigot) in 1817; Van Romondt became governor three years later, and by 1851 the number of followers was such that the church was built.

The structure was restored in 1978 to such high standards that the original design is still the star of the show, and is one of the most emblematic buildings on the entire island. In fact, a stamp designed in 2001 commemorated the 150th anniversary of its construction. In recent times, Queen Beatrix, Queen Máxima and King WillemAlexander have all paid visits. Clearly, its influence is enduring.

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TheGreat

Outdoors

St. Maarten/St. Martin boasts a wide array of land and water activities. Regardless of whether you are a adventurous landlubber or an ocean-loving mermaid, The Friendly Island offers fun-filled options for everyone.

Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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Photo by Atlantis Adventures Seaworld Explorer

On the

Water

It’s not hard to make a splash in St. Maarten/St. Martin.

Take a 37-square-mile-wide island set in the brilliant blue Caribbean Sea, add 37 gorgeous beaches, bays and cays plus one circumnavigating road providing access to every bit of water, toss in a tropical atmosphere and voilà! It results in a paradise for water activities — from soothing pleasures to adrenaline rushes.

W

— By paT CanTor hile St. Maarten/St. Martin has many enjoyable attractions, our water activities are the biggest draw for locals, sportsmen and tourists alike.

Being in the water is good for you.

Since the dawn of civilization, man has known the benefits of those salty, mineral-filled oceanic waters, which the ancients used for their healing and beauty qualities. Even the sea air has a healing quality. Breaking waves release negative ions believed to increase levels of serotonin, which helps to stave off depression, relieve stress and boost energy.

Just walking along one of St. Maarten’s/St.

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Martin’s beaches is therapeutic. It’s one reason everyone heads to the beach; even ancient civilizations had seaside resorts.

The modern island of Capri, summer destination for the rich and famous, began life in roman times when Caesar augustus discovered its charms in 29 BC. The ocean atmosphere was a calming and healing reprieve from the hectic pace of ancient urban life in rome.

RELAX BY THE SEA

To relieve the stress of today’s urban life, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers an extensive menu of watersports and activities providing a wide range of options. To totally relax and indulge, you might sign up for yoga classes by the lagoon or on the beach. Imagine a waterside massage or spa treatment enhanced by tropical breezes. Some spas and practitioners on the island offer Thalassotherapy treatments once used by Egyptian priests and the romans as a health benefit. For a DIy sea treatment, book a trip to the island of Tintamarre, where you can relax in the natural mud baths. relax on a chaise at one of our beaches or explore the shores to experience their individual personalities.

UNDERSEA ADVENTURES For the more athletic crowd who loves to explore life beneath the waves, the waters and coral reefs surrounding St. Maarten/St. Martin and the island of Saba offer a stunning opportunity to meet and greet the local sea life. all of our waters are designated as protected marine parks that deliver excellent dive opportunities. Dive trips center on

interesting old wrecks, stunning coral reefs, exciting night dives and exhilarating shark dives. In addition to sharks, you’ll discover a vast wealth of sea life, ranging from parrotfish to turtles. are you a novice eager to learn to dive?

Most of our dive operators also conduct paDI courses. not up to diving? Then try snorkeling, either on your own or on a tour. Good snorkeling sites include Simpson Bay Beach, Îlet pinel, Tintamarre, Friar’s Bay, Baie rouge, Little Bay, Cupecoy Beach, Dawn Beach and more.

The best snorkeling spot is without a doubt Creole rock outside Grand Case.

ADVENTURES ABOVE THE WATER

From day trips on a boat to hang gliding over the atlantic, the island has a myriad of adventures on the water.

There are even very safe and fun options for just for kids like water trampolines and slides. one of the most popular island water activities is spending time on a boat. There are so many options whether you are on board a sailboat, catamaran, sexy motor craft or mega yacht. you can charter and captain the boat yourself, or relax and let a professional crew do the work. Feel like a sailing pro aboard a real professional race craft, or consider a romantic gourmet dinner or cocktail cruise and watch the sunset. you can also book a charter boat or ferry to anguilla, Saba or St. Barths. or sail to prickly pear Cay for lunch, Îlet pinel to eat lobster or Tintamarre to picnic. you can even charter a fishing boat for a day at sea and eat what you catch. If you want to enjoy a bit of sailing history, you can board a tall ship or pirate ship.

The possibilities are endless.

Love to mix sea spray with your adrenaline sweat? Go surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing or body-boarding, or experience the newest surfing trend straight from Hawaii: SUp squatch, a giant inflatable paddleboard that you can surf with. you can also make like Superman by parasailing or by trying the Flyboard, a jetpack that propels you over the water and up high into the air. More conventional activities include jet skiing, water skiing, Continued on page 68

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activities Continued from page 64

kayaking and canoeing. a great way to tour the shores is by stand-up paddleboarding. if you like to mix rush with relax, hit the zip lines in Pic Paradis and then chill in a cabana next to a pool.

But what is the best watersport on the island guaranteed to improve your well being? enjoying a sunday lunch at a beach restaurant. Good food and wines, lively bar scene and perfect views of the water!

AMERICA’S CUP RACING –12 METRE CHALLENGE Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-0045 12metre.com This thrilling activity is an opportunity to race the multi-million dollar America’s Cup Race Boat Stars & Stripes in the warm blue waters and brisk trade winds of the Caribbean. It

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has been voted the number- one shore excursion in the Caribbean for 14 years.

Stars & Stripes, Canada II, and True North offer a great adventure. The expert crew shows guests exactly what to do in crew positions. Out on the race course participants grind winches, trim sails, punch the clock, or can just sit back and enjoy the ride (and refreshments). No previous sailing experience is required. After the race there is a complimentary rum punch party. The boutique is filled with race memorabilia. The boats depart daily from Bobby’s Marina.

AQUA MANIA ADVENTURES Tel: +1 721-544-2640 stmaarten-activities.com Enjoy all of your favorite excursions from one location. Take an adventurous day trip to Saba for hiking or diving, or a lavish day in exquisite St. Barth for shopping, French cuisine and beach time. The highspeed ferry, Edge, is the way to go. You can also hop on its beautiful catamarans Tango and Lambada for day sails to Anguilla and Prickly Pear, both which have with crystal-clear waters and powdery white beaches as far as the eye can see.

Or sail into the sunset on the evening

cruises along St. Maarten’s/St. Martin’s golden coastline with cocktails in hand and a chance to spy the green flash. To explore St. Maarten’s underwater beauty, choose Sand Dollar for half-day snorkel trips to Creole Rock, or enjoy scuba diving with friendly dive instructors at Dive Adventures.

This is your vacation, and your island adventures: Plan some unforgettable trips with the “leisure technicians” at Aqua Mania Adventures. Book at the activity desk of your hotel or directly online.

ATLANTIS SEAWORLD EXPLORER Tel: +1 721-542-4078 atlantissubmarines.com The adventure begins in Grand Case, a quaint unspoiled fishing village on the French side of St. Martin. Get welcomed aboard the Seaworld Explorer, a state-ofthe-art semi-submarine developed for use on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The scenic cruise goes through the harbor to the unique geological formations of Creole Rock. At the reef, the vessel does not submerge; instead, guests descend into the hull of the vessel and sit in air-conditioned comfort five feet below the surface. From there, the wonders of underwater gardens,

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coral reefs, and colorful fish are revealed through large glass windows. A real treat is that while guests are looking out the window, they can see a diver surrounded by an abundant array of fish.

EAGLE TOURS Dock Maarten, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-3323 +1 721-587-0710 Email: eagletours@caribserve.net sailingsxm.com Anguilla, Prickly Pear, Orient Bay, Tintamarre, Creole Rock and Long Beach— those are some of the prime destinations where Eagle Tours can take you. They offer a super choice of all-day tours and private charters. Eagle Tours arrived on the island 15 years ago. Perhaps you have seen Quality Time, their 51-foot fast sailing catamaran, or Too Rhum Punch, their fun 39-foot sailing cat, and Seaduction L 47, their 47-foot Leopard for special private small-group charters.

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Eagle Tours vessels have large trampolines to sunbathe on, comfortable shady areas, restrooms, freshwater showers, open bar, fresh sandwiches made onboard and friendly crews. All their tours include transport from your hotel, lunch in a beachside restaurant and Champagne during that return trip. Reservation is easy and friendly with Jojo and Melody. Petro, the racing captain, Sophie, captains Andre, Guy and their crew, who have been with Eagle Tours for years, know what will make you happy onboard and are always there to give you service and information.

Join them on the original Farewell tour around the island, the Eco Tour, their Sunset Champagne voyage or their new Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla experience.

RANDOM WIND SAILING Tel: +1 721-587-5742 randomwind.com Random Wind is known for unforgettable sailing trips, such as the famous Paradise Day Sail and extraordinary Private Charters. This traditional 54-foot sailboat offers a whole day of fun with sailing, swimming, snorkeling, eating, drinking,

paddle boarding and swinging into the blue waters of the Caribbean from the allages Tarzan swing. With a full, top-shelf open bar, great food, music and cushioned seats in the sun and shade, this trip has something for everyone. The experienced and fully certified crew makes sure you have the best day possible, while enjoying the crystal clear waters. All of the photos taken by your crew are posted and free for you to copy and share.

RISING SUN TOURS – LAGOON GROUP Tel: +1 721-586 4590 +1 590-590-87-14-22 +1 264-476-4590 Email: info@lagoongroup.com lagoongroup.com Travel Agent and DMC on Sint Maarten, Saint Martin, Saint Barth and Anguilla. Rising Sun Tours is a Destination Management Company and Travel Agency with more than 20 years of professional experience in the Caribbean.

They work on corporate programs, incentive trips, retreats, and more. They handle hospitality desks and excursions for cruise ships and are also the official representatives for wholesalers worldwide in four different territories.

SXM DEALS Tel: +1 721-554-3408 sxmdeals.com The only online activity center in St. Maarten/ St. Martin that offers over 100 tours and private charters on more than 20 different powerboats and sailboats. Snorkeling trips, jet skiing, excursions to Anguilla and Prickly Pear, scuba diving, island guided tours, sailing and exciting powerboat tours are just some of their activities. Visit the website, learn about the island’s activities and book now.

TOPPER’S RHUM Tel: +1 721-520-4316

stmaartenrhum.com Visit the home of the “world’s best tasting rhum” handmade right here in St. Maarten. Take a tour through Topper’s distillery, where you will learn a little history about rum-making in the Caribbean. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how they ferment, distill and filter rum. Afterward you will see Topper’s blending process and how they expertly bottle their handcrafted rums. You may even try a new flavor that is in development. After the tour you will be invited to the tasting bar, where you’ll be welcome to taste all of their artisanal products. You will even have the opportunity to bottle your very own Topper’s Rhum to take home.

Don Pablito your host

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The Sporting

Life

L

Landlubbers enjoy all sorts of sports on St. Maarten/St. Martin. Not exactly known for your sea legs? Don’t throw in the

towel. St. Maarten/St. Martin is famous for its beaches, but there’s much more to this tropical paradise than sun-soaked shores.

— by jeff LaigN andlubbers can choose from all sorts of sporting options. from limestone lowlands to majestic mountains, the landscape here is rich and varied. The Dutch/french island is a haven for bikers, hikers and eco-trekkers. Swingers of clubs and racquets may find their options limited in terms of quantity, but they won’t be disappointed with the quality of golf greens and tennis courts.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with doing nothing more taxing than relaxing with a good book. but with the best weather this side of heaven, don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to wander inland and try your hand at activities you’ve only read about. Here’s a sampling of the terra firma treats awaiting you on St. Maarten/St. Martin.

CYCLING if pedaling puts a smile on your face, get ready to grin. This island boasts 25 miles of trails perfect for bikers. Stunning ocean views and spectacular hillside scenery reward those who take on part or all of the 35-mile-long road that encircles the island. Sign up

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

for a group ride of one to four hours. Coast leisurely through the french flatlands or along seaside trails from Cay bay to fort amsterdam and Mullet beach. Serious cyclists may want to tackle the bellevue Trail from Port de Plaisance to Marigot, or tighten their hamstrings on a challenging ride to Pic du Paradis (Paradise Peak), the island’s highest point. if, on the other hand, you’re more in the mood for a relaxing ride, take your twowheeler to Simpson bay Lagoon.

GOLF Strengthen your swing at the Orient bay Driving Range then head for the 18-hole, par-70 Mullet bay golf Course. Designed by architect joseph Lee and sculpted around a tranquil lagoon, the course is the island’s only option for full-play action. but that doesn’t mean that local players are anything less than enthusiastic about hitting the greens. The Dutch-side Sint Maarten golf association boasts 130 members. On the french side, can’t-getenough clubbers rally at the Tamarins golf association. in November, the Concordia Cup pits french and Dutch players during two days of spirited fun.

HIKING

On St. Maarten/St. Martin, you really can get a leg up on sightseeing. With its varied terrain and attractions, the island is a magnet for hikers, walkers and runners. Awaiting you are 17 well-marked paths affording pedestrians stunning views of verdant hills and sandy shores. Circle the island or set your sights on any of several trails leading to Paradise Peak (Pic du Paradis), nearly 1,400 feet above sea level. Join the Road Runners Club of St. Maarten for its Wednesday Fun Run. On Sundays, runners gather early at Pelican Resort and Casino for a run of 2 to 15 kilometers. In May, the Caribbean trackand-field season culminates in the International Meeting of St. Martin.

HORSEBACK RIDING Saddling up is one of the best ways to see the off-the-beaten-path side of St. Maarten/St. Martin. Picture yourself cantering along a foamy coast on the back of a gentle steed, then climbing gradually on a track through gorse and cactus plants until you reach a plateau 400 feet above an ocean teeming with pleasure

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boats and cruise ships. Discover hidden coves and pristine waterfalls as you’re horsing around. You can even take a “swim” with your new equine pal in the shallow waters off a scenic beach.

ACTIVITIeS

MOTOR MAGIC

From scooters and motorbikes to Jeeps and all-terrain vehicles, you’ll find plenty of pathways to off-road fun on both sides of the island. Sign up for a Segway excursion on the Dutch side. On the French side, take command of the track behind the wheel of a speedy go-cart.

SOCCER

Um…we mean football. Both Dutch and French sides of the island support national football (soccer) teams that compete in cups sponsored by CONCACAF (Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football).

Catch a match and cheer along with locals.

TENNIS

Several resorts on the island maintain quality courts. There’s even a tennis school on

the French side near Grand Case Beach Club.

The American Tennis Academy is open daily and features two lighted courts. It offers structured programs, lessons, clinics and rentals for juniors and adults of every skill level, which includes vacationers who love to lob. In January, Alberic Richards Stadium hosts the Women’s International Tennis Tournament.

VOLLEYBALL

The St. Maarten Volleyball Association has been skimming the nets since 1976.

Dutch and French teams compete locally and in regional competitions. Want to try your hand at smacking a volleyball?

Resort staffers may be happy to set up a game. Or you’re sure to find a heated match almost any time you visit a popular tourist beach. Jump in and join the fun.

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SHIP SHAPE

How Budget Marine founder Robbie Ferron found success in St. Maarten/St. Martin — b y m o n t a g u e k o b b é ROBBIE FERRON HAS BEEN IN ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN for more than 35 years, having arrived in 1979, in the thick of the first tourist boom on the island. The personable, self-assured man whose deadpan sense of humor keeps you guessing whether he’s joking or not, is the founder of Budget Marine, one of the leading chandleries in the Caribbean, with over a dozen stores in 10 islands.

Ferron was born in South Africa to Dutch parents, but his love for the sea coupled with social and cultural challenges in his home country led him to jump on a boat and head elsewhere. “I came sailing,” he says. “I was a sailor — I still am.”

In 1981 — a few years after arriving in St. Maarten/St. Martin — Ferron noticed that the biggest problem when servicing boats here in the Caribbean region was the quality of the material available. In doing so, he identified an opportunity for a new business. With the blessing of local politician Claude Wathey, Ferron set up a workshop in his house, up the hill from Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg. By 1987, Budget Marine had to be moved to its own headquarters.

Having progressively grown into a major international business over the following two decades, Budget Marine earned Ferron a knighthood from Queen Beatrix in 2005. Did he enjoy being addressed as “Sir” all of a sudden? The Dutch system, he explains, doesn’t contemplate titles unless they’re hereditary.

“But it felt great,” he admits. “It fills me with satisfaction, especially because the marine field, not only in St. Maarten/St. Martin but in general, is often segregated and doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.”

Ferron is an exemplary S’martiner, a Knight of the Kingdom of The Netherlands and a South African émigré. With such a global identity, where lies his heart? “I’m not going to tell you which was the better girlfriend!” he says, jokingly — maybe.

TEAM GOLDENDOG —by

ariel jamil

Created in 2004 to raise awareness of the plight of homeless, needy and abused animals here on the Friendly Island, Team Goldendog helps these animals find their forever homes.

As a competitive sailing team in the Heineken Regatta — winning in their class four times — Team Goldendog has raised more than $60,000 for worthy animal rescue organizations and they’ve helped countless four legged friends find forever homes. Here’s just one of many success stories.

Daisy, a Coconut Retriever, was homeless on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg in January 2014. Melissa Albrecht of Connecticut contacted Team Goldendog after returning home and told them about Daisy. She sent them Daisy’s picture and asked them to find out if she was indeed in need of a home. With the help of the St. Maarten Animal Welfare Foundation, Su Wathey and the SXM Veterinary Clinic in Cay Hill (Dr. Swanston and his team), Daisy was rescued and placed into foster care until she could travel to Connecticut to join her new family. Melissa has since started With Love from Lily, an animal welfare organization (and Team Goldendog partner), helping animals in Connecticut.

To donate, adopt or become a partner, go to teamgoldendog.org, find them on Facebook, or call 721-586-6634.

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MAKING A SPLASH

On the water or under the sea, St. Maarten/St. Martin has plenty to entertain you when it comes to water activities. The ultimate adventure includes snorkeling in one of the marine parks using the latest gear, such as the full-face snorkeling mask, which allows you to breath underwater as easily and naturally as you would on land. It's a must-try! On Pinel Island you’ll find a snorkeling trail that forms part of the National Geographic Snorkeler program.

Another great water activity that has become a St. Maarten/St. Martin “must-do” is to ride a Rhino on the water.

Yes, a Rhino — a Caribbean one. Four-time winner of the prestigious "Tour of the Year" award, this innovative tour company, Rhino Safari, has a fun, interactive tour for adventurers of all ages. Imagine piloting a safe, inflatable watercraft called a Rhino in a guided 2 1/2 hour tour that’s tons of fun.

This wonderful water wanderer takes off on a delightful jaunt where you’ll enjoy the tropical waves of both sides of the island and follow your personal guide along the coastline from bay to bay until you reach a splendid snorkeling spot, Creole Rock Marine Park. Here, you’ll experience the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world and its amazing inhabitants. Then hop back on the Rhino to see the island the way it was meant to be

seen — from the water, passing by the beautiful beaches of Galisbay, Lover's Beach, Friars Bay, Happy Bay, Grand Case, the town of Marigot and the biggest lagoon in the Caribbean. Don't return home without the chance to say, "I rode a Rhino!"

You can also island-hop to Anguilla, with its endless stretches of powdery white sand, lucid blue waters and an abundance of tranquility. The most pristine and flawless of all its beaches is Shoal Bay. Rated among the best beaches in the world by many travel magazines, this spot offers marvelous snorkeling as well.

RHINO SAFARI 58 Welfare Road, Simpson Bay, +1 721-544-3150 / rhinorides.com Pinel Snorkeling Trail on Pinel Island, +1 721-522-5800 / gopinel.com Anguilla, +1 721-587-1223 / 44ocean.com

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THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS St Martin Memories: Create your own Perfume by gina rossi

When my husband and I signed up for an afternoon of perfume-making at Tijon, little did I know that a ninety minute course would spark my new "scentual" obsession.

W

hen my husband and I signed up for an afternoon of perfumemaking at Tijon, little did I know that a ninety minute course would spark my new "scentual" obsession.

The boutique is very inviting with twentyone fragrant Tijon perfumes and colognes in addition to unique gifts, but the lab is where the magic happens...bringing together the art and science of perfumery. This is a true working laboratory: lab coats, glass beakers, and over 300 oils to choose from in order to blend your own unique fragrance. I discovered over 5,000 people have created their own perfume/cologne at Tijon.

The eight-year-old workshop is the only place in the Caribbean where you can literally make a memory, combining individual scents to make a personal blend

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

that will trigger your recollection of “the friendly island.”

The knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff explained, "creating perfume is like making music." As a musician, I embraced the parallel concepts of music and fragrance creation. There are low base notes that linger for a long time; there are mid-tones that sing a bit and slowly fade to a sweet and subtle breath; and high notes that initially delight but cannot be captured.

These notes blend together to form an accord: a beautifully composed fragrance foundation.

The afternoon was a tremendous success in creating our own “island inspired” fragrance. We each created three different “accords” (a mixture of oils used to create perfume) and chose the one

we liked best after testing them on our skin.

I was overjoyed by my formula. , I began with a premixed base oil (choosing from twelve), then gingerly added leather and tobacco. My pièce de résistance: a touch of neroli. And my signature scent was complete. It was a whiff of magic`...at least to my nose. I wanted something big and bold that would settle into soft and sexy.

It was a deeply creative and surprisingly sensuous experience. We left with bottled, custom-labeled perfumes, exquisitely packaged in black velvet pouches. I named my fragrance Touché Moi. We’re big fans of this experience and next time we’ll take the longer 2-3 hour class. For those on short schedules Tijon also offers a “fragrance in a flash,” a fifteen minute offering where you can choose four oils, with Tijon’s guidance, to create your own scent.

The class concluded, in appropriately French fashion, with a celebratory champagne toast.

WHAT’S BEING SAID ABOUT . . .

Creating Your Own Perfume/Cologne Tripadvisor – Five Star Rating

“Is there a higher rating than 5 stars? This was a highlight of our island tour. An absolute MUST do!

MWPyle, Nashville, TN

Martha Stewart’s Real Weddings: Best ways to honeymoon in the Caribbean, April 2015 “Blend your own fragrance at Tijon, a chic boutique perfumery on St. Martin.”

“One of the best things I have ever done on vacation.

I read about it in the USA Today . . . Loved every minute.”

Jirasela, Howell, MI

“More to St. Martin than just the beaches. This is definitely something I will do again.” JDR0421, NYC

“Best activity in St. Martin.” Carine R., Toronto, CA

About.com, April 3, 2015 “Tijon is probably the most perfectly located custom made perfume business of them all earning consistent 5 star reviews on TripAdvisor. The hands on approach, where you're actually encouraged (and gently guided) into mixing your own stuff, like a mixologist or a perfumer, is where the real difference shows.”

TIJON PERFUMES, COLOGNES & LOTIONS

USA Today, March 2015 Tijon: Top 25 “Made in the Caribbean” shops.

(The only St. Martin shop on the list)

Frommers - 4th Edition “A Special Find. Looking for that certain something you won’t find anywhere else? This boutique parfumerie and skin care manufacturer makes all its wonderfully scented products right here at its headquarters in Grand Case.”

Tijon is located in Grand Case on the corner of the French

airport road and the beach road. Showroom hours are

Monday-Friday, 9:30am to 5pm, with other times available by

appointment. Hours may be limited in September and October.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

EMAIL: PERFUMER@TIJON.COM

OR CALL +590 690 22 74 70 OR +1 721-581-4586.

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island hopping

Photo courtesy of Dolphin Discovery V I S I T S T . M A A R T E N /S T . M A R T I N

| 2016

Meet the

Neighbors Located right in the middle of the five-island cluster, St. Maarten/St. Martin is the perfect jumping-off point to visit a number of widely diverse and jawdroppingly beautiful neighbors. Each of them is not only unique but also just a small hop away. — By MontaguE KoBBÊ

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R ISLAND HOPPING

Opposite page: Top: Saba Below: St. Barth Photos courtesy of Aqua Mania Adventures

SABA: BETWEEN HEAVEN AND THE DEEP SEA

Even seasoned travelers with good knowledge of the Caribbean are bound to be surprised by what they find once they get across the channel to Saba.

Essentially one steep dormant volcano that shoots upwards from 650 feet beneath the sea, Saba boasts unique underwater seascapes and unparalleled panoramic views of the northeast Caribbean. enowned the world over for the exceptional quality of its diving, Saba has a marine ecosystem with dramatic underwater walls and unforgettable pinnacles. All diving sites off the island must be accessed through one of the three local diving shops licensed by the Saba Marine Park Foundation.

Above the surface, you can trek to the top of Mount Scenery (2,910 feet high) climbing the 1,064 steps that take you from the town of Winwardside — the island’s hub of activity — through an increasingly thick vegetation to the otherworldly surroundings of the Elfin Forest.

But Saba’s greatest treasure is its people. Resilient, good-natured and hardworking, Sabans battled centuries of isolation and tough living conditions to turn an inhospitable rock into the earthly paradise.

Don’t Miss:

• Saba chat: Sabans are personable, affable, charming and they have a million stories to tell, from South American revolutionary hero Simon Bolivar’s visit to the building of the airport.

• The Road: Take a taxi to drive you from Flat Point to The Bottom — you won’t regret seeing the incredible views.

• Saban architecture: Local cottages flaunt beautiful traditional colors.

• Lacemaking: A traditional craft honed by local women for centuries.

How to Get There:

Winair provides a regular service from Princess Juliana International Airport. It’s a 15-minute flight on a 14-seat Twin-Otter into the shortest commercial airstrip in the world.

A round-trip ticket is approximately $150 (including taxes).

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Ferry crossings are also available from Simpson Bay (Edge) and Philipsburg (Dawn II) for approximately $115 including tax. It’s a scheduled 90-minute ride in calm waters, but if the sea turns choppy it can be a rough journey and take longer.

ST. EUSTATIUS: TRANSSHIPPING ITS WAY TO HISTORY

The diversity of the Caribbean atoll is largely due to the distinctive features of each of the islands that compose it, and the ways its inhabitants have endeavored to exploit such features. St. Eustatius, or Statia, has a special feature: its natural deep harbor. For years it sheltered some of the most notorious pirates in the Caribbean before the Dutch decided to turn it into a free port in 1756. This signaled the heyday of economic activity on the island, which turned into a major trade post for all powers present in the Caribbean.

Ironically, the very source of unprecedented wealth in Statia was also the cause of its downfall, as the free port upheld its right to trade with the rebellious United Colonies even after they had unilaterally declared independence from Britain in 1776. The British suspected foul play (officially, the neutrality agreement of the free port barred it from trading “war material” to any state involved in an armed conflict), and eventually razed Statia to the ground in 1781. This, together with strong hurricanes before and after the operation and the end of the slave trade 20 years later, colluded to make certain that Statia would never regain its place among the most important trading posts in the world.

Today, Statia is known for its ecological approach toward sustainable tourism, as well as for its historical heritage.

Peaceful and beautiful, this island offers a unique vantage point to glories past and a fascinating take on a sustainable future.

Don’t Miss:

• Nature trail: Walk up The Quill, the dormant volcano with its vast crater, now home to a gorgeous rainforest.

• History lesson: Tour Oranjestad, with its historical warehouses on the waterfront, the ancient Honen Dalim Synagogue and scenic views from Fort Oranje.

• Deep dive: Plunge below the sea in search of the famous blue beads that once identified the local slaves.

• Flower tour: Visit the spectacular Miriam C. Schmidt Botanical Garden.

How to Get There:

Winair provides a regular service from Princess Juliana International Airport. It’s a 20-minute flight in a 14-seat TwinOtter. A round-trip fare costs approximately $150 (including taxes).

ST. BARTH: A TOUCH OF SOPHISTICATION

When it comes to different, few places can stake as high a claim on unique as St. Barth. Although originally settled by the French, this lovely little island was once traded to the Kingdom of Sweden, giving it a unique blend of both cultures.

Nothing in the Caribbean comes closer in feel to the French Riviera than a stroll along the marina in Gustavia, which for the past three decades has been a home away from home for the rich and famous, ranging from Giorgio Armani to billionaire Roman

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abramovich. and yet, the legacy of the swedish tenancy between 1784 and 1878 can still be felt in the architecture, the names of places, and in the fact that the island has been a free port since 1785. as with statia, st. Barth’s greatest asset is its natural deep harbor. The island’s first and largest source of riches came from trade — primarily of slaves. But after sweden abolished the slave trade in 1813, the profitability of sweden’s only trading post in the region suffered a severe blow. in 1847 the swedish crown abolished slavery, freeing the approximately 600 slaves on the island. an 1877 referendum resulted in a return to the French fold. a curious extravaganza had come to an end.

Don’t Miss:

• World-class shopping: You won’t find a better place for a chic spree in the Caribbean.

• Café society: For a touch of saintTropez, head for the promenade in town, have a drink at the Yacht Club and be seen at nikki Beach.

• Take a hike: at 938 feet in elevation, Morne du Vitet is not the alps but it’s well worth a visit.

• Luxuriate: Few places will have done more to shape a territory than the Eden Roc hotel in st. Barth.

This is one hotel you shouldn’t miss.

How to Get There:

Winair and st. Barth Commuter fly several times a day from princess Juliana international airport and l’Espérance airport, respectively. Fares range from $70 to $125 each way (including taxes).

Regular ferry services are operated from Bobby’s Marina in great Bay (Shantiwa), oyster pond and Marigot (Voyager) and simpson Bay (Edge). Crossings take between 40 and 45 minutes, except from Marigot, which takes 75 minutes. prices range from $80 to more than $150, in addition to a $15 departure tax.

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

ANGUILLA: PEACEFUL HAVEN

shaped like a writhing snake and just as close to the sea level as the stealthy amphibian, anguilla is surrounded by a huge coral reef. This might sound like a meaningless detail, but in fact it makes all the difference in the world. it is the effect of time and the tides on that reef which has created the most distinctive and flabbergasting feature of the island: its irresistible beaches. From the quaint fishing harbor at Crocus Bay and the breathtaking Rendezvous Bay to the raw splendor of The Cove and the striking sliver of land that is sandy ground, anguilla’s 30-plus beaches are uncannily gorgeous. anguilla was never a successful plantation island. Evidence of this is its notable lack of old manor houses and mills, but also the island’s coherent demographic distribution and in the proud sense of attachment anguillans have for their land.

Don’t Miss:

• The dining experience: anguilla has featured among the best culinary destinations in the Caribbean for decades.

• Boat racing: sailing season starts in Easter and ends with Carnival in august.

• Off-island getaways: sail out to and explore surrounding cays like sandy island and prickly pear.

• Trip to the past: anguilla’s history is distinct in the Caribbean. discover the world of arawak caves and the bloodless revolution by touring the heritage Trail.

How to Get There:

anguilla air services flies three times a day. a round-trip ticket costs about $200, including taxes.

Ferries from Marigot leave every 45 minutes, starting at 8:15 a.m. The fare for the 25-minute journey is $20 each way. departure tax from Marigot is $5, and from anguilla $8. note that you will need to take a taxi from Marigot to either princess Juliana or l’Esperance airports (a fare of approximately $20). alternatively, regularly operated ferries from princess Juliana international airport (simpson Bay)

Snorkeling in Anguilla, photo courtesy of Aqua Mania Adventures

can be booked in advance. Fares range from $55 to $75 for the 40-minute ride.

The service includes a short shuttle from the port to the airport terminal. departure tax from sint Maarten is $5 and from anguilla $8.

DOLPHIN DISCOVERY Anguilla Tel: +1 264-497-7946 dolphindiscovery.com Dolphin Discovery is widely recognized for its natural dolphinariums and for offering exciting personal interactions with dolphins, sea lions and manatees. With many prime facilities and the highest standards in dolphin care, they are the largest dolphin family in the world. The company believes that the dolphins, sea lions and manatees living in their care are important ambassadors not only for their own species but for the oceans, too. They believe the dolphins deserve the best possible life they can provide and their knowledgeable team of marine mammals specialists and veterinarians work diligently to ensure healthy, fulfilling lives for these very important animals. The goal is to foster environmental stewardship among all human generations, through joyful, personal interaction with our planet’s most fascinating marine mammal.

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60 Oyster O 63 RH 66 ÉTANG N I Pond Sint Peter Hill 67 m Dawn AUX Great Key 31 NE RD 67 Williams Hill 221 m Mount SAIN N Beach 317 m HUÍTRES 30 29 Cupecoy C MARTI T-M <<< TO SAINTFortune 258 m 61 62 AR O SIN T EN MAHO / IN TM Y D AART 28 M A R T 284 m N AR SI BA L CUPECOY TEN AY 13 ZE Y P O ND RD D GOT >>> MUL L ET EGION 19 TO MARI Maho RT R WAY IDDLE R SE M B AY RED Sentry U 5 RD O T CA Saunders OR EN 180 m AIRP RP PO ND ana ST MAART 26 Hill AI Princess JuliAir Hill E B AY nal port 340 m Internatio 21 27 25 22 L D BAIE BEACH MULLET BAY BEACH ER G IBB’ S 20 300 m 23 . IL RCH R K A T .

C A B AY 24 SU Naked Boy 19 S I M P S O 64 SGUT Hill AY SALT N ZAGERRD B A Y TB 18 G UANA RD EA OND R E R B AY 17 BURG EAUX W G P BUS 65 OU RD HR B AY Y RD . BR 16 RED CROSS D RE A BA A.J.C 69 SINT MAARTEN LFA UAN 70 G E Cole Philipsburg 13 14 15 Fort W G.A. Bay 3 A William 12 Simpson 187 m BLVRNELL W.A. NISBETH RD. TRITON Hill Bay Billy Folly D CK 18 L AY 11 SHELL RD 121 m 14 8 4 B AY 2 16 ER 3 2 124 m R 1 D 7 G ENEVE CO L E B AY 4 Cay Bay Hill B AY 5 1 176 m 6 G R E AT B A 8 C AY 10 Y 200 m B AY L I TTL E 9 AQUAMANIA B ACK B AY AT L A N T I C ADVENTURES B AY 6 OCEAN C A R I B B E A N S E A FERRY 7 TO DEVIL’ S SINT MAARTEN ST. BARTHS, CU PPER 122 m MEDICAL CENTER SABA PO INTE BL ANCHE B AY

S I N T M A A R T E N D U T C H W E S T I N D I E S

FERRY ST. BARTHS, ANGUILLA, SABA

POINTS OF INTEREST

HOTELS

1 Sint Maarten Museum

1 Sea Palace Resort

20 Turquoise Shell Inn

2 National Heritage Foundation Shop

2 The Villas on Great Bay

21 The Horny Toad Guesthouse 40 La Plentitude

39 Centr' Hôtel

59 Pearl One

58 Capt. Oliver’s Resort & Marina

3 Government New Administration Building

3 Sonesta Great Bay Hotel

22 Mary’s Boon Beach Resort

41 Le Petit Hotel

60 Oyster Bay Beach Resort

4 Ministerie van Volkshuisvesting, (VROMI)

4 Horizon View Beach Hotel

23 Ascony Beach

42 Le Shambala

61 Hotel Princess Heights

5 Emilio Wilson Park

5 Holland House

24 Alegria

6 Fort Amsterdam

6 Pasanggrahan Royal Guest House 25 Sonesta Maho Beach

7 Boardwalk

7 Tamarind Hotel

26 Royal Islander

45 Hotel Riu Palace St Martin 64 Getaways at Guana Bay Beach Villas

8 Frontstreet

8 Belaire Beach Hotel

27 Sonesta Ocean Point

46 Le Domaine de Lonvilliers 65 Carl’s Unique Inn

LEGEND Sports Facilities

Marina

Police Station

Ferry

43 Grand Case Beach Motel 62 The Westin Dawn Beach

Fire Station

Main Road

44 L’ Esplanade Hotel

Church / Worship

Secondary Road

63 Casa Linda

Post Office

Minor and Other Road Developed Area

9 Fort Louis

9 Divi Little Bay Beach Resort

28 Cupecoy Beach Club

47 Cottages de Lonvilliers

66 The Summit Resort

Hospital / Emergency

10 Pic Paradis

10 L’ Appartement D’Indigo

29 Rainbow Beach Club

48 Esmerelda Hotel

67 The Towers at Mullet Bay

Gas Station

Woodland

11 Loterie Farm

11 Villa Blue Cap

30 Sapphire Beach Club & Resort 49 Palm Court

68 Grand Case Beach Club

12 Hope Estate Site

12 La Vista

31 Ocean Club

69 L’ Esperance Hotel

Beach

Sand

Library

Other Land

50 Residence Le Shamrock

13 Border Obelisk

13 Flamingo Beach Resort

32 La Samanna

51 Hotel La Platation

14 Fort Willem

14 Simpson Bay Resort & Marina

33 Christian Wolfes & Tane

52 Villa Alter

15 Museum of Saint Martin

15 The Atrium Resort

34 Villa Encore

53 Blue Bay Beach Hotel

16 Philipsburg Jubilee Library

16 Pelican Resort Club Hotel

35 La Bali

54 L’Hoste Hotel

17 Mount Vernon Plantation

17 Jennifer’s Vacation Villas

36 Mercure Saint Martin

55 Alamanda Resort

18 Department of Communications

18 Royal Palm Beach Resort

37 Le Flamboyant Hotel & Resort 56 Villa Goyave

19 Justice Academy

19 Travel Inn Hotel

38 Hotel Beach Plaza

57 Club Orient

70 Sea Breeze Hotel

Casino

Coral

Airport

Rock

RD LLIDGE

SOUALIGA RD

10 Endless Summer 11 Effy Jewelers 12 Grand Marche

13 Guavaberry Emporium 14 GN Jewelers 15 Joe’s Jewelry 16 Klass Electronics 17 Linen Galore 18 Lipstick

19 Little Europe 20 Little Switzerland 21 Majesty Jewelers 22 Pears Gems

SOUALIGA RD

PASANGGRAHAN

19

RD.

13

VOGUES STRAA T

PET ERSO N ST

6

37

T

2

31 Ocean Lounge at Holland House

37 12 Metre Challenge

23

GREAT BAY MARINA

DINING

ACTIVITIES

7

BOBBY’S MARINA

29 Celestial Weddings 30 Sleek Sandals

35 Nazaca 36 Domino’s Pizza

BAC K ST .

W.G . BU NCA MPER

Philipsburgs Pharmacy Shop N Spree Touch of Gold Value Jewelers Art Cafe Caribbean Gems

32 Antoines 33 Sheer 34 Taloula Mangos

11 20

27 30 2116 5 22 17 HORIZON VIEW 14 31 8 FR 3 BEACH HOTEL ON 18 926 T 25ST. 1 HOLLAND HOUSE 34 10

G R E AT B AY 23 24 25 26 27 28

FRO915 NT 4 ST.

SEC RE TA RIS STE EG

SEA PALACE RESORT

24

E.C. RIC HAR DSO NS T.

FERRY ST. BARTHS, ANGUILLA, SABA

NCHO YRAUSQU IN YUA BLV D

7 Boolchands 8 Cartier 9 Diamonds International

17

DEBR OT S T CAN NEG IETER ST.

OL DS TR

SONESTA GREAT BAY HOTEL

35 32

C.A.

PAST ORIE STEE G

FRONT ST.

THE VILLAS ON GREAT BAY

SHOPPING 1 AMA 2 Amsterdam Cheese 3 Art of Time 4 Artistic Jewelers 5 Belgin Chocolate 6 Blanc du Nil

BAC K ST .

WIL HEM INA HEN DRIC K

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LITTLE BAY RD.

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38 39

38 Eagle Tours 39 SXM Deals

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HÔTEL MERCURE SAINT MARTIN MARINA & SPA

L AY B AY

DR TE TA ES R M ED TO RE ET HO MA N’S BE

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46 m

LD AR PE

JADE

ACTIVITIES / SPAS 14 Aqua Mania Adventures 15 Random Wind 16 Rhino Safari 17 Jet Ski Tours / Pirate Tours 18 L’Aqualigne 19 Rooster’s Party Bus 20 Tri Sports

Simpson Bay Billy Folly

ZIRCON RD

RD

REAL ESTATE AND LODGING 29 Carbon Acquisitions 30 Remax 31 Island Real Estate Team 32 Jennifer’s Vacation Villas 33 Atrium Beach Resort

B IL

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Top Carrot Topper’s Zee Best La Vista Hideaway

18

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SHOPPING AND TRAVEL INN HOTEL 20 22 SERVICES Snoopy 6 Island 21 Thrifty Car Rental Charter House SIMPSON BAY ISLAND ROYAL PALM BEACH RESORT YACHT CLUB WATER D .

P 22 Endless Summer Swim Wear IM Domino’s Pizza WORLD IMPAS SE 23 Grand Marche DU RED P Jimbos OND 9 29 RU 24 St. Maarten Nectar Karakter BAI RO 4 ED UGE EAST ROAD 11 RU E DE LE 26 PELICAN RESORTECLUB AQUAMANIA SA HOTEL FAL A IS 10 ND Lee’s Roadside Grill ADVENTURES 25 The Mail Box 32 E WELFJENNIFER’S VACATION THEYATRIUM RESORT ARE GR CORNER RD 26 Simpson Bay Pharmacy RD VILLAS RENTALS 33 O THE Melange FERRY UN 1 17 SIMPSON BAY RESORT & MARINA D TO 27 Paradise Car Red Piano 28 30 14 ST. BARTHS, 31 3 28 Fedible Bouquets LY OL Taste Factory LY F

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1 Alegria 2 Basilico 3 BB Corner Grill & Bar 4 Cheri’s Cafe 5 Thrifty 6 Jewels And Lines 7 Melao Sushi To Go 8 Prestigous Couture 9 Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino 10 Blanc Du Nil 11 Maho Pharmacy 12 J. N. Jewelers Foundation Shop 13 Domino’s Pizza

Great

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411 m

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Ben Hill 198 m

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L ZE HA RD LFO ME R LL E H TS PE UM TR

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Treasure

Hunt

A guide to St. Maarten/St. Martin’s shopping destinations. — b y p A t c A n t o r From the 16th to the 19th century, colonial St. Maarten/St. Martin thrived as an important commercial port. Situated at the center of the trade route from South America to Europe, it was a shopping paradise. this little dot of sand, sea and rainforest prospered and grew. Along with the lucrative sugar and rum trade, the island’s wealth flourished. However, after the plummet of sugar value in the 1800s, the island sank back into quiet obscurity and relative poverty.

Inga Ivanova Photo by istock

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Crown of Light Brilliant Ring Piece available at Diamonds International

o kick-start the economy in the late 1930s, St. Maarten/ St. Martin became a duty-free/tax-free haven. Neither the French nor Dutch levy customs duties, VAT or any indirect taxes on goods, resulting in excellent prices on European products, from Champagne to clothing. By the mid-’60s, merchants began offering prestige goods with a focus on fine watches, jewelry, electronics, cameras, wines, liquors and tobacco (especially fine cigars), along with international beauty products and fashion. Today, the shopping list has exploded to include world-class local products from paintings and jewelry to some of the finest rums and sauces in the Caribbean.

Decades ago, Philipsburg and Marigot were the shopping destinations. Today, you’ll discover fantastic places all over the island to shop, although Philipsburg and Marigot are still the premiere retail havens. A stroll down Front Street in Philipsburg is like sauntering along the alleys of a Middle Eastern souk with its piles of treasures. This is the place to buy watches, whether you are coveting a high-end complication masterpiece or a stylish everyday ticker. The island has some of the world’s top watch experts; most are the exclusive agent on island for their specific brands. Like Ali Baba’s gem-filled caves, St. Maarten/St. Martin’s jewelers offer gold and silver jewelry plus GIA-certified diamonds and precious stones. Front Street is also great for finding fashion labels as well as fine spirits, fun souvenirs, art, electronics and more. Check out Back Street for a local shopping experience.

Marigot has a sexy French vibe reflected in the stylish fashion and luxury goods stores, beauty boutiques, and interesting little shops scattered along Rue Charles de Gaulle, the Marina Royale and the West Indies Mall. For something special, visit the Marigot Market, where you’ll discover locals who design and make clothing, accessories and spices right on island. For the ultimate souvenir, select a work of art from the Roland Richardson Gallery on Rue de la Republique. Sir Roland is the Caribbean’s most important artist.

Once a remote fishing village, Grand Case has evolved into the food capital of the Caribbean and a charming shopping destination. On the French side, almost all the beach restaurants have on-site shops where you’ll discover great fashion, gifts and accessories. The Boulevard is lined with eclectic boutiques featuring local artists, fashion, custom perfumes and beauty, beachwear and accessories. Just outside the town is Hope Estate, a warehouse district. Fashion, home décor and food are the draws.

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Touch of Gold, Blue Diamonds

Art of Time, Omega Snoopy Edition

Back on the Dutch side, head to Porto Cupecoy for stylish clothing and accessories, then go to the Blue Mall for sexy French and Italian fashion, luxury accessories plus amazing sports clothing and accessories. Up and down Airport Road in Simpson Bay, Welfare Road at the bridge, shops purvey clothing, beachwear, food and booze, books, stationery, souvenirs, and accessories scattered among the endless choices of restaurants.

If you want to bring home special French or Dutch food or beauty products, check out the supermarkets and pharmacies for fab finds. Even the recently expanded airport retail space is a shopping destination, just in case you forgot someone on your list.

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Made in St. Maarten/St. Martin

Products created right here on island make special gifts and souvenirs. — By Pat Cantor —

By Pat Cantor

FLAVORS Infuse your meals with incredible island flavors. At Ma Doudou in French Cul de Sac, you will find beautiful flavored rums in hand-painted bottles, as well as excellent spices and herbs, oils and sauces, premixed blends and condiments. In Grand Case, Busco offers more island flavors, all packaged in decorative island themes. Sample flavored rums, jams and condiments, Creole sauces and spices. That wonderful aroma in the Marigot Market is Kalina Spices’ stall. This place is ground zero for super-fresh organic herbs, spices, mixes and hot sauces using ingredients sourced from the Caribbean and South America.

In a charming Creole cottage on Front Street in Philipsburg is the Guavaberry store. In addition to rums and liquors, Guavaberry produces some of the tastiest spice mixes and sauces on island. If you are a fan of Topper’s restaurant, take home their award-winning red sauce and special Lebanese family salad dressing — plus a bottle of delicious Topper’s Rhum, which is handmade, bottled, and packaged with precision right here in St. Maarten. Topper’s is a true sipping rhum that you can enjoy straight, on the rocks, in cocktails, frozen drinks, or even over ice cream.

For a taste of pure French St. Martin, stop at Bacchus in Grand Case for the most amazing take out on earth! They freshly prepare everything so you can be a superstar chef.

SCENTS Locally made fragrances bring back beautiful memories of the island.

At Tijon in Grand Case you can purchase divine perfumes, beauty products, sun products and soaps. You can make your very own unique perfume at one of their special classes. And St. Maarten Nectar is produced right in Simpson Bay using natural, pure ingredients to create beautifully scented body lotions, hair and body oils, sun products, soaps, home fragrance products and more.

LITERATURE A few local books to consider include the new Temptation Restaurant Cookbook filled with recipes by renowned island Chef Dino Jagtiani

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imbuing his work with an exuberant view of island life. His Marigot gallery is housed in a restored 19th-century Creole house.

and illustrated with Sir Roland Richardson’s paintings and Laura Richardson’s poetry.

Local publisher The House of Neshi produces island books like Chez Yvette Cookbook and I See The Sun, an anthology of local poetry. Check out the fantastic mystery writer, Ed Arre, whose engaging work takes place on St. Maarten/St. Martin!

ART Art is a permanent reminder of St Maarten’s/ St. Martin’s beauty. In Oyster Pond, visit Les Exotiques, the studio of Provence native

Marie Moine, who uses the techniques of French master potters infused with inspiration from island life to create unique ceramics. In Grand Case, stop by Tropismes Gallery, featuring the work of local artists such as Paul Elliott Thuleau, Nathalie Lepine and Antoine Chapon. In Friar’s Bay, Ruby Bute, one of the island’s most famous artists, reproduces the life of St. Maarten/St. Martin in vibrant, original painting and prints. She is an honorable member of the House of Orange-Nassau. Known as the Father of Caribbean Impressionism, the work of Sir Roland Richardson is painted en plein air,

STYLE Island style takes influence from many global sources including the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and beyond. The Art Box Gallery, in Bobby’s Marina, features the designs of Zdenka Kiric. Using gold, silver, pearls and gems, she creates jewelry that is both easy to wear yet artistic. Another jeweler is Mali native Isabelle Souccar, who takes inspiration from her homeland to create one-of-a-kind works of wearable art using exotic materials.

She is available by appointment at La Samanna, ZaZaa on Anguilla and Saba’s Jewel Cottage. The colorful straw and raffia with silk flower bags from Blooming Baskets

by Lisa, in Puerto Cupecoy, work beautifully whether you are casually or dressy. If you want T-shirts that are stylish and atypical, check out two sources: The Cotton Club in Grand Case for custom logo T-shirts and clothing, and The Marigot Market, where you’ll discover locally designed and made jewelry, bags and clothing.

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Shopping in Maho J.N. JEWELERS 8 Cinnamon Grove, Maho Plaza Tel: +1 721-545-2287 Email: jewels123sm@gmail.com Established in 1986, J.N. Jewelers is widely considered one of the most reputable and recommended fine jewelry stores in St. Maarten. The well-trained team will assist you with the purchase of fine jewelry, loose diamonds, sterling silver and timepieces. Trip Advisor has awarded them the prestigious and coveted Certificate of Excellence. All fine jewelry purchases come with appraisals and are backed by service centres in the USA to handle after-sales service and mail orders.

JEWELS & LINENS 3 Cinnamon Grove, Maho Plaza Tel: +1 721-545-3078 Email: jewels123sm@gmail.com Four stores down from J.N. Jewelers and with the same ownership, Jewels & Linens — located on the main street in Maho next to Maho Pharmacy — is a secondgeneration family-owned business. It was established in 1986 and offers one-stop shopping with an unrivaled selection of fine jewelry, loose diamonds and branded watches, as well as Cuban Cigars, tobacco, liquor, souvenirs, beach stuff and sunglasses.

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PRESTIGIOUS COUTURE 5 Maho Reef +1 721-542-6339 Email: vijantinarine@hotmail.com Prestigious Couture is the ultimate destination for the latest fashion apparel for men, women, and the home. It offers a wide variety of designer brands — Kenneth Cole, Juicy Couture, StudioF, Express, Chocolate Italy, Joyce & Girls, Lulumari, Solemio, Peach, Bebe, Antivirus, and much more.

MAHO PHARMACY 14 Maho Plaza, Rhine Road, Maho Village Tel: +1 721-545-3200 mahopharmacy@caribserve.net philipsburgpharmacy.com Maho Pharmacy offers a wide assortment of OTC medication, cosmetics, French skin care products and Rx medicine from Europe and the U.S. Their knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with any needs and questions you might have. This is the place to get your prescriptions filled, with big savings compared to U.S. prices. Find out how much you can save by emailing or calling them for a quote. Located at the end of the plaza in Maho Village, with convenient customer parking. Delivery service available. Open till 9 p.m. every day.

PRESTIGIOUS COUTURE

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ST. MAARTEN NECTAR

ST. MAARTEN NECTAR, 16 Welfare Dr., Unit 27, Laguna View, Cole Bay Across from the cinema behind the i-store. Email: info@stmaartennectar.com, Tel: +1 721-544-2337, Facebook: St. Maarten Nectar, Twitter: @StMaartenNectar, www.stmaartennectar.com The rapid growth of St. Maarten Nectar is fueled by two elements: passion and unwavering dedication to quality. This small powerhouse has come a long way from its inception in 2011, when founder Nalia Muriel decided to evolve her personal, natural bug repellant formula into a thriving business. Her expanding inventory of diversified products range from skin care and baby care to home fragrances. All of her handmade products are chemical-free.

Each item within the St. Maarten Nectar line is produced from natural tropical ingredients and essential oils used by mankind for thousands of years, sourced from all over the world to ensure the highest grades.

You can visit their boutique to witness firsthand St. Maarten Nectar’s commitment to quality. Not only will you be charmed by the friendliness of this female-owned and run business, but you

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can also visit their lab facilities above the retail store to see the creation of St. Maarten’s own skin care line. Feel free to sample an array of products, including the famous Bug O%, their tanning oil made with the indigenous roucou seeds, which were once used by the ancient Amerindians as a natural sunblock, or their extensive line of facial care products, ranging from moisturizers infused with jasmine and rosewood to facial balms designed to enhance skin’s youthfulness. And if liquids and travel are a cause for concern, the boutique is fully stocked with travel sizes and options for shipping. They’ve definitely thought of everything with you in mind.

And if you do not make it to their facilities, St. Maarten Nectar products are available also in pharmacies, hotels boutiques or Shipwreck Shops throughout the island and neighboring islands.

Shopping in Simpson Bay EDIBLE BOUQUETS 85 Welfare Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-0543 Looking for a great gift idea for all your social events? Edible Bouquets NV can create a variety of fresh fruit bouquets to make any occasion special. Whether it’s an office party, birthday, or wedding anniversary, they have a fabulous collection of edibles to tempt your palate, and they deliver to hotels and villas, seven days a week. Call or drop in and their staff will assist you in making the perfect choice.

Simpson Bay Pharmacy

SIMPSON BAY PHARMACY 68 Welfare Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3653 sxmpharmacy.com Simpson Bay Pharmacy is located in Simpson Bay Yacht Club within walking distance of a medical center, ENT clinic and a dentist. The pharmacy has the island’s largest selection of European and American prescription drugs and over-thecounter medications. It operates in conformity with FDA requirements and the laws and regulations of St. Maarten.

The pharmacy also has a wide assortment of beauty and personal care products, including brands such as Lancaster, Vichy, La Roche Posay and Phyto St. Barths. In January 2015, Simpson Bay Pharmacy was voted Best Pharmacy on Sint Maarten by The Daily Herald for the ninth year in a row.

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Endless Summer

Say You Saw It In

VISIT

St.Maarten / St.Martin

THE OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE ST. MAARTEN HOSPITALITY & TRADE ASSOCIATION

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special promotional feature

Where to start?

Um...the guy holding a free Heineken sign outside the store.

Seen quite a few sales techniques in my time but this one was pretty good. So my family and I took the bait. Expecting to be mobbed by sales people, instead we were surprised AVAIABLE IS THE ALEXANDRITE RING PRECIOUS GEMSTONE

with a cold Heineken served in a frosted glass. Dutch coffee I was told by our host, who pleasantly and quickly explained who AMA Jewelers are and what they had to offer.

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

EXCLUSIVE BRANDS

My wife of course, darted straight to the diamond section.

White, chocolate, black, blue, yellow, green and pink diamonds.

The sales person, her name is Aarti asked if we had any questions. Well we didn’t really know much about diamonds so we chose one diamond earring set to get an idea of prices.

The 4 C’s- cut, clarity, carat weight and color were all explained to a T. I asked what about the 5th C, cost. I was informed because we have been married 18 years it was only 12 cents a day!

What a salesperson this lady is, I am in real trouble now. We actually started having a lot of fun. Precious and semiprecious stones, pearls, tanzanite, so many different gems to choose from.

One gemstone really caught my eye, Alexandrite. This gem actually changes colors in deferent lights, from green to raspberry red, extremely rare, end up owing the Alexandrite ring.

A friend of ours told us about the many watches available in Sint Maarten. So many brands to choose from.

I had narrowed down my choice to a Citizen Eco Drive and a Frederique Constant. Eco Drive of course, never needs a battery and Frederique Constant because I always wanted a high end Swiss timepiece. My daughter found a cute Guess watch, my wife still thinking diamonds, wanted the diamond bezel Techno Marine. So pricing time again.

Aarti told me not to worry, we will make you a package deal along with the Alexandrite ring and the diamond earrings she had put aside for us. — NICE.

AVAIABLE FASHIONABLE JEWELRY, STERLING ITALIAN SILVER, PRECIOUS GEMSTONES, AND COLORFUL BELLE ETOILE.

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advertorial

special promotional feature

AVAIABLE RAYBAND SUNGLASSES, AND TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

EXCLUSIVE BRANDS

Next we entered into the fashion jewelry part of AMA. There were Italian sterling silver sets with precious and also semi precious gemstones. Colorful award winning designers such as Belle Etoile.

Leather charm bracelets, tungsten, titanium, even cobalt jewelry.

All available for men and women. Finally learning what it means to accessorize. Reached the sunglasses so I figured why not get birthday and anniversary done in one shot. Buy one RayBan second one half price was a no brainer.

Big travel section was the next stop. AMA is the exclusive dealer of Tumi, Land, Brics, Britto, and IT brands. Backpacks, laptop cases, wallets and other travel accessories as well. Picked up a couple of Cross pens for the guys back at work, AMA even had them engraved.

As we made our way back to the jewelry section, Aarti was kind enough to bring out more drinks and my wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alexandrite ring had already been sized. The Alexandrite ring was a must, something different, I mean why do we travel if not to have unique experiencies.

Discover Stroili Collection which pays tribute to female beauty with sophistication and elegance.

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EXCLUSIVE DEALER OF TUMI, LAND, BRICS, BRITTO, AND IT BRANDS

EXCLUSIVE BRANDS

As AMA’s motto says “You may come in as a customer but leave as family” We had started in AMA looking at diamond earrings because my wife had told me before we left on vacation that her earrings were too small. Aarti then told us we could trade in the old earrings and up-grade. A good beginning and a great ending spending our time shopping with AMA.

Can’t wait until we return for more Dutch coffee!

24 Front Street, Phillpsburg, St. Maarten. DWI. Ph: + 1 721 542 6935 gold@sintmaarten.net

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Shopping in Philipburg Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic available at Art of Time, Artistic Jewelers, and Swiss Time

ARTISTIC JEWELERS 61 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-3456 artisticjewelers.com

ART OF TIME 26 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-2180 artoftimejewelers.com

ART OF TIME 3 Rue du General de Gaulle Tel: +590-590-522480 artoftimejewelers.com

SWISS TIME 37 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-2328 swisstimejewelers.com Artistic Jewelers and its sister stores Swiss Time and Art of Time are centrally located on Front Street and in Marigot and represent the finest watch and jewelry brands including: Audemars Piguet, Baume & Mercier, Breitling, Chanel, Chopard, David Yurman, Gucci, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, John Hardy, Longines, Marco Bicego, Mikimoto, Montblanc, Omega, Panerai, Pomellato, Tissot, TW Steel, U-Boat, Vacheron Constantin, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Wellendorff.

IWC, Galapagos Edition available at Art of Time, Artistic Jewelers and Swiss Time

Boolchand’s, Jewelelry

BOOLCHAND’S 50 Front St., Box 105, Philipsburg Email: jewelry.sxm@boolchand.com Tel: +1 721-542-2245 5 Harbour Point Village, St. Maarten Email: harbour.sxm@boolchand.com Tel: +1 721-542-9364 boolchand.com Pandora is world-renowned for its highquality and hand-finished jewelry at affordable prices. Pandora designs, manufactures and markets contemporary jewelry inspiring women to tell their story. Its stylish and feminine jewelry invites women to unleash their inner self-creator. Pandora’s unique and detailed designs combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology and are made from .925 sterling silver, 14-karat gold and embellished with cubic zirconia or delicate gemstones.

AMA 35 Front Street, Philipsburg +1 721-542-6935 ama.com AMA is undoubtedly one of the top retail chains on the island with an impressive product mix that sets it apart in the jewelry and luxury products market in St. Maarten and the Northeastern Caribbean. A new standard of duty-free retailing was set when the late Mr. Beharilal Bijlani and his son Arun opened the doors of the first AMA at the Princess Juliana Airport. AMA began by retailing fine jewelry and has since branched out to watches, sunglasses, luggage, leather, fine writing instruments, business, travel and fashion accessories.

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Romain Jerome available at Diamonds International

Crysalis available at Caribbean Gems

Shoppingin Philipsburg AMSTERDAM CHEESE AND LIQUOR STORE 26 Juancho Yrausquin Blvd.

Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-581-5408 Email: acssxm@gmail.com This is the only “official” Dutch store on the island with a large variety of Dutch cheeses, pastries, souvenirs and gifts. Find them on Facebook and TripAdvisor (tripadvisor.com / 6582952). Located next to Chesterfields restaurant, on the way to the cruise ship terminal. Free parking for customers.

CARIBBEAN GEMS 22 Front St., Philipsburg 40 Front St., Philipsburg Email: sales@caribbeangems.com Tel: +1 721-542-2176 Toll-free: 800-848-7925 caribbeangems.com Established for over 33 years, Caribbean Gems is one of St. Maarten’s top-rated jewelry stores. Most regular visitors to the island know that for certified loose

diamonds, designer jewelry in gold or sterling silver, world-class watches and more, Caribbean Gems has the widest selection at the most competitive prices. With their inhouse workshop, you can have your diamonds set or jewelry customized while you wait. With the best customer satisfaction guarantee in the business, U.S. service centers, toll-free customer support, lifetime upgrades, certified appraisals and the friendliest service on the island, you won’t be disappointed. Read the amazing reviews on TripAdvisor.com.

CARTIER St. Rose Arcade on Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-543-7700 cartier.com In 1847, Louis-François Cartier took over his tutor’s jewelry workshop at 29 Rue Montorgueil in Paris, marking the birth of Cartier as a business and the

THE BELGIAN CHOCOLATE BOX 109 Old St., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-523-1642 beatrixdetroy@gmail.com thebelgianchocolatebox.com The dark, sensuous aroma of chocolate assails the senses the moment one enters The Belgian Chocolate Box. First comes the rich fragrance, then your eye is drawn to the gleaming display of chocolates. This season’s latest additions are the ever popular, melt-in-the-mouth, oven-fresh Belgian waffles and the amazing Chocolate Explosion of the Year with almond paste, apricot and honey nut crunch. With Old Street, Philipsburg almost 20 years of mouthwatering reputation, this chocolate lovers’ paradise is the oldest authentic Belgian chocolate factory in the Caribbean and serves you an amazing variety of truffles, bonbons, delicious waffles, s’mores, bars, fudge — all handmade daily to ensure freshness and optimum taste. They’re all crafted on premises with passion and love by owner and chocolatier, Beatrix Detroy. Travel packaging, cooler bags and free hotel delivery are available.

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Two-Tone Diamond Palm Tree Bangle available at Jewels & Linens and G.N. Jewelers

shopping

Available at Bvlgari Botique

beginning of a long love story. Since its foundation, the House of Cartier, the leading brand in the luxury goods market, has long been identified with quality, prestige and history, serving as the official jeweler to 10 royal houses.

Cartier occupies a unique position in the creation of fine jewelry, timepieces, fragrances and accessories. With more than 280 boutiques in all five continents and one of the most exclusive distributor networks in the world, Cartier is continuing to build on its unique wealth of craftsmanship and commitment to excellence.

BLANC DU NIL 15 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-9435 17 Maho Plaza, Maho Tel: +1 721-545-3112 210a Juliana Airport Tel: +1 721-546-7719 blancdunilsxm.com The largest white 100% cotton collection in the world. For an all-white look with cool, casual, tropical elegance, Blanc du Nil's clothing is made with 100% cotton that is renowned for its high quality. It is light, fresh, easy to wear and has the classic look of linen without the expense and high maintenance.

Our friendly staff will help you choose from our wide inspirational selection of classic, timeless and innovative styles — with prices starting at $19. Come visit us in our Maho, Philipsburg or Princess Juliana Airport stores.

DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL 59 Front St., Wathey Square, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-7992 68 Front St., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-6230 35B Front St., Philipsburg Hamilton Watch Tel: +1 721-542-1418 available at Diamonds diamondsinternational.com International.

Looking for the finest designer jewelry brands? Then make Diamonds International your only stop while on holiday. Celebrated as the Caribbean’s most recommended VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Effy Jewelry, Color-Diamonds Ring

jeweler, Diamonds International has dominated the region for over a quartercentury by offering exquisite Swiss timepieces, luxury-grade tanzanite jewelry and much more. Their wide inventory of loose diamonds and couture brands keep shoppers coming back often. With over 130 retail locations, Diamonds International has enormous buying power that translates into tremendous values on every item they offer. Exclusive brands like the Crown of Light 90-facet premium diamond enjoyed by sophisticated collectors are available only at Diamonds International. Ask their experts for a VIP preview of these and other extraordinary diamonds, and experience luxury shopping at its best.

EFFY Five locations in St. Maarten Front Street and Wathey Square, Philipsburg, Harbour Point Cruise Facilities Tel: +1 721-542-3951 effyjewelry.com Since 1979 Designer Effy Hematian has stood by his passion for brilliant fine jewelry. Located in the heart of New York City, Effy’s reputation for his use of color set the standard for colored gemstones across the industry. Defined by superior craftsmanship and quality at an unrivaled value, Effy’s customers see and know the difference.

ENDLESS SUMMER SWIMWEAR 27 Front St., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-1510 3 Travel Inn, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-2618 endlesssummerswimwear.com Heading out for some fun in the sun? Then Endless Summer is your must-stop shop. With more than 15 years of selling beautiful swimwear in St. Maarten, Endless Summer boasts very classy and affordable lines to cater to all shapes and sizes for both men and women. Specialty lines from Israel, Spain, Germany, the U.S. and Canada give this quaint boutique a variety of styles and colors. From

tankinis, bikinis and tank suits to cover-ups, hats, shoes and bags to match — they have it all. They cater to sizes 2–24 and cup sizes AA–F. Visit Endless Summer and let their knowledgeable and friendly staff find your perfect suits. See the latest trends that Sunflair, Gottex, Luli Fama, Tara Grinna, Miraclesuit, Jordan Taylor, Longitude, Caribbean Joe, Jvaldi, Christina and Roidal have in store for you. Endless Summer is truly your complete swim apparel store.

G.N. JEWELERS 43 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-1902 Email: jewels123sm@gmail.com G.N. Jewelers was recently awarded the prestigious Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor and is part of a family-owned business established in 1986. It is located on Front Street next to the Holland House Hotel. It carries a wide selection of branded watches, jewelry, and sunglasses. All fine jewelry purchases come with appraisals and it has U.S. service centers ready to handle after-sales service and mail orders.

JOE’S JEWELRY INTERNATIONAL 66 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-543-7020 joesjewelry.com Established in 1980, Joe’s Jewelry International is celebrating its 35th anniversary. It provides a lavish shopping experience offering luxury Swiss watches, certified diamonds and outstanding fine jewelry.

Tissot available at Joe’s Jewelry

KLASS ELECTRONICS 40 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-3242 klass-electronics.com Klass Electronics is known for carrying top brands and the latest electronics, including cameras, computers, cell phones, tablets, TV’s and more.

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TOAST TO THE ISLAND

A glass full of St Maarten tradition, Caribbean Culture, Wild St. Maarten Guavaberries, Coconut, and Pineapple; meet our local island drink! The Guavaberry Colada is refreshing, sweet, and most of all a delicious drink made with St. Maarten Guavaberry’s Original Wild Island Folk Liqueur.

RECIPES TO TRY

Guavaberry Colada

2 oz. Guavaberry Island Folk Liqueur 1 oz. cream of coconut 3 oz. pineapple juice ice Put ice in a blender, add Guavaberry, cream of coconut, and pineapple juice. Blend well. Garnish glass with pieces of pineapple, toasted coconut and fresh nutmeg.

Guavaberry is a fruit found high in the warm hills of the island and was a Caribbean Amer-Indian favourite. Guavaberry Liqueur was first made in private homes and used for traditional celebrations. Over the years it has become an integral part of the island culture. The Guavaberry Liqueur is made from fine oak aged rum, cane sugar and wild Sint Maarten Guavaberries. The aged liqueur has a woody, fruity, spicy, bittersweet flavor. This flavor sensation makes Guavaberry perfect for a variety of cocktails, as marinade in the kitchen, as extra ingredient in cakes but it’s also delicious to pour over icecream…

Republic Mojito

2 oz. Republic Rum 1 oz. Club Soda ½ Lime Mint Leaves 1 tsp soft brown sugar Muddle the Lime and Mint leaves and a teasp soft brown sugar in a hiball glass, Add the Republic Rum, Club Soda, and ice.

Stir well, garnish with Mint leaves and Lime wedges.

Dark 'n Handsome

2oz Republic Rum 2oz Ginger Beer 1 Fresh Lime Angostura Bitters

In an Old fashioned glass pour the Republic Rum, squeeze the Lime, and add some Angostura bitters. Stir well, top up with Ginger Beer and garnish with a Lime wedge.

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THE GUAVABERRY EXPERIENCE

Right in the heart of historical Philipsburg you will find the Guavaberry Emporium. A 300 year old National Monument built on the site of a Jewish Synagogue, abandoned in the late 1700’s. It’s one of the oldest buildings of Sint Maarten. All their rums and liqueurs are still produced right here. As soon as you set foot in here, you are covered in the traditional Caribbean atmosphere. This place is just packed with tasty island treats. From St. Maarten’s Guavaberry liqueur, a range of exotic rum liqueurs to honey, hot sauces, seasonings and their famous love potion. True rum lovers should try their 5YO and 8YO Republic Rum, an unsweetened golden blend of the finest Caribbean Rums, the youngest of which was aged in oak for five or eight years. Republic Rum is a real sipping quality golden spirit of the Caribbean.

The Guavaberry Emporium is located at Frontstreet #8 and the friendly traditionally dressed staff will take good care of you with their daily free tastings.

Hublot available at Little Europe Zenith El Primere available at Little Europe

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LINEN GALORE 45D Front Street Philipsburg Linen Tel: +1 721-542-2533 Galore Email: info@linengalore-sxm.com Facebook: linengaloresxm linengalore-sxm.com For a wide selection of hand-embroidered linen and decorative accents for your home, visit Linen Galore. Explore its extensive collection of tablecloths, placemats, and napkins — everything you need to create a festive and well-decorated table. To learn more about the art of table décor, follow them on Facebook. You’ll find great ideas and inspiration to set your table for every occasion.

LITTLE EUROPE JEWELLERS #2 Front Street, Philipsburg, St Maarten Tel: +1 721-542-3153 #80 Front Street, Philipsburg, St Maarten Tel: +1 721-542-4371 Email: info@littleeurope.com littleeurope.com Daryanomal Udernomal Mukhi Alwani founded Little Europe in 1976 in St. Maarten. Today, under the direction of Hiro and Naena Daryanomal Udernomal Alwani, and their sons Mukhi Alwani Manoj and Sanjay, Little Europe continues to redefine luxury in the Caribbean. The store was the first to introduce Piaget and Corum in the region, the second in the western hemisphere to open a Hublot boutique, and the first to open a Zenith boutique. In addition to its strong partnership with two LVMH brands, Little Europe also counts Dior, Hermès and Lladró to its repertoire of brands. Its wide selection of jewelry includes the audacious diamonds of deGrisogono and one-of-a-

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Breitling available at Little Switzerland

kind pieces from Italian brands like Chimento, Damiani, Stefan Hafner, Staurino Fratelli and Pasquale Bruni. For these reasons and more, Little Europe is today considered a landmark destination on St. Maarten/St. Martin, bringing a concentrated version of Paris’ Place Vendôme to the Caribbean.

LITTLE SWITZERLAND 52 Front Street Philipsburg Tel: +1 248-809-5560 Ext. 50090 Toll-free: 877-800-9998 Little Switzerland has been the Caribbean’s most trusted retailer for more than 60 years, offering discerning clientele the finest luxury timepieces and designer jewelry. Visit their Front Street location in Philipsburg for an extensive selection of Breitling, TAG Heuer, Omega, John Hardy, Alex and Ani and other top brands, along with an impressive collection of diamond and gemstone jewelry. All brands are offered at duty-free and tax-free prices, and preferred interest-free financing is available.

MAJESTY JEWELERS 46 Front Street, Philipsburg +1 721-542-2473 majestyjewelers.com Majesty Jewelers will exceed your expectations. This is your one-stop destination for Hearts on Fire, the world’s most perfectly cut diamond, which are made with the ultimate brilliance and intensity. The Mark Henry collection features one of the rarest gemstones, natural Alexandrite, known for its phenomenal ability to change colors from mossy green in daylight to alluring raspberry red in the evening. Majesty also features a wide variety of name brand watches, including Raymond Weil, Fendi and Philip Stein.

PEARLGEMS 53A Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-6758 pearlgem.net Celebrating 20 years, PearlGems thanks all their loyal customers for their continued

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Shoppingin Philipsburg Pearlgems

support. PearlGems family is known to be the largest pearl specialist retailer. As wholesalers and jewelry manufacturers, they source the choicest pearls and manufacture unique creations at the most competitive prices. PearlGems imports pearls from all over the world, and has loose pearls, clasps and customized pearl stringing. At PearlGems they focus on quality, value, integrity and impeccable service.

PHILIPSBURG PHARMACY 4 Voges Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-3001 Email: pharmacy@caribserve.net philipsburgpharmacy.com Philipsburg Pharmacy offers a wide assortment of OTC medication, cosmetics and Rx medicine from Europe and the U.S. Their knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with any needs and questions you might have. This is the place to get your prescriptions filled, with big savings versus U.S. prices. They also carry a wide range of French cosmetics and healthcare sundries.

Find out how much you can save by emailing or calling them for a quotation. Conveniently located across from the library, next to Great Bay Medical Clinic, with ample parking space available. They also offer delivery service. Call for more information.

SHOP-N-SPREE 85 Front Street, Philipsburg +1(721) 526-1444 shopnspree1@yahoo.com

Shop-N-Spree is the perfect place to find affordable souvenirs to take home. The offering includes T-shirts, bags, watches, local rum and hot sauces, sterling sliver, and more.

It also offers some great specials — three magnets for $10 or four hats for $10.

shopping

Blanc du Nil

diamonds in all shapes and sizes at significant savings. They are the authorized dealers of “the world’s most beautiful diamonds” by Lazare Diamonds. At Touch of Gold Jewelers you can also find designer jewelry by Verragio, J.B. Star, Martin Flyer, Hidalgo, Soho, Adami & Martucci, Baccarat, Angélique de Paris and more, and watches by Hermès, Jean Richard, Kenneth Cole and more — all at duty- and tax-free prices with savings of up to 30 percent off global prices. In addition, they have U.S. based customer service centers, personalized aftersale services and all loose diamonds are accompanied by certificates documented by the most respected gemmological laboratories. So shop here with confidence and make this a memorable experience that will bloom into a lasting relationship.

IWC Portofino Ladies available at Art of Time, Artistic Jewelers, and Swiss Time.

SHOP N SPREE

VALUE JEWELS 30 & 31A Front Street, Philipsburg +1(721) 543-0884 Celebrating its first year, Value Jewels was created

by Sanjay, a certified GIA Gemologist) and Mike Surtani. They are third generation jewelers. The store offers some of the world’s most popular brands such as: Versace watches and Alex and Ani bracelets, as well as many up-and-coming names such as: TiSento, Milano, Invicta, and Valente. Not too far away is Value Jewels sister store Helena Jewelers where an exquisite collection of fine jewelry and an extensive collection of certified loose diamonds can be found.

TOUCH OF GOLD JEWELERS 29 Front Street, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4120 Email: touchofgold@usa.net touchofgold.com Touch of Gold Jewelers is proud to celebrate their 25th anniversary. Heeru, the owner has the goal to always exceed the expectations of every customers with exceptional service and quality. They house the largest selection of excellent cut loose VISIT S TMAAR TEN.COM

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ArT & CuLTurE

Vibrant

T

Expressions The thriving arts scene on St. Maarten/St. Martin adopts the island’s beauty and heritage.

—

BY MONTAGuE KOBBÉ

he Caribbean has long been a source of inspiration for artists. There is something in the sun, sea, light and shadows here that triggers a je ne sais quoi.

From Camille Pissarro and Paul Gauguin to Winslow Homer, Wilfredo Lam, Henry-robert Brésil and Armando reverón, they all found in the Caribbean — its nature, its hue, its people — the crucial ingredient to shine a new light on a tradition that is as ancient as mankind.

St. Maarten/St. Martin is no exception to the rule, as you can tell from a brief drive around the island: It’s packed with great galleries and studios. When it comes to painting on the island, roland richardson is the patriarch of outdoor painting.

Vivid, simple and yet tremendously engaging, his work is evidently shaped by nature and his technique of always being in direct contact with it. richardson was born here in 1944 to a family that has spent the last couple of centuries in the region. His heritage weighs heavily not only on his work, through which he strives to further the Caribbean strand of a pictorial tradition, but also on his lifestyle, which in many ways is his most ambitious oeuvre.

Nowhere is this more evident than in his beautiful gallery on the rue de la république in Marigot, a stunning building from the first half of the 19th century where his charming wife, Laura, greets you with a smile.

A French immigrant who arrived from Bordeaux in the 1980s, Francis Chapon comes with a photography background, which might have given him a head start in terms of aesthetic sensibility. Chapon had never tried his hand at painting before coming to St. Martin, and his progression over the best part of the last three decades, creating sensitive watercolors and slightly more dramatic oils, has been quite remarkable. Chapon’s style is contrary to what you might expect from a photographer: lyrical, evocative, even somewhat dreamy in a strangely lucid, captivating way. His works can be viewed in his home/gallery in Cul-de-Sac. Equally noteworthy is Francis Eck’s rich, colorful production. Opting for abstract compositions, Eck conveys meaning through emotion using weighty textures, often applied with a palette knife, which delivers more intense results. His work is on display at his studio in Orient.

Founded in 2005 by renowned painter Paul Elliott Thuleau, Tropismes Gallery has presented more than 20 shows of contemporary Caribbean artists over the past 10 years, including painters, sculptors and photographers. Located in St. Martin in the famous gourmet village of Grand Case, the gallery showcases many aspects of Caribbean culture, including eye-catching interpretations of the island’s architecture.

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The Fiery Red Flamboyant Tree

A meditation on the island’s national symbol —

SIR RoLAnd RIChARdSon

T

he familiar world around us is a deep, beautiful mystery. All life emerges from and depends on light, but light itself is invisible to us. We can no more look steadfastly at the sun than our bodies could live on its surface. Yet we depend on it for our being. Mysteriously, light transforms itself into color and thus becomes visible. This miraculous transformation, this manifestation of color out of invisible light, is a gift of grace, allowing us to see. This is the gift of sight; this is how we are able to see that which is created for us from the invisible.

The first or primary colors revealed are pure, they are three, red, yellow and blue.

They are the outward, visible aspect of an inner, invisible quality. The infinity of space, our sky, goes away from us, reflected on Earth in the cool, deep blue sea. Yellow: the engaying, enlightening glow of sunlight, flitting here and there, radiant. Red seems the most close to us, full of dignity, serious and hot yet otherworldly. Magically it manifests itself as the largest red flowering tree in the world, the Flamboyant.

The royal poinciana is named after Philippe de Longvilliers de Poincy, the 17th-century governor of the French

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Antilles, who is supposed to have brought it to the region from Madagascar. Ranging from a rare, pale yellow through several hues of orange, to deep, majestic, fiery red, it is called by many names: the Flame tree, the July tree, the Formosa tree, the Freedom tree. But the Flamboyant Tree is the most popular name, and is most expressive of the character of its color.

Encircling the earth in this tropical zone with its vibrant blooms, it is classified as one of the 10 most beautiful trees in the world. It loses its feathery leaves and is bare-branched in late spring, bursts into fiery bloom, cascading to the ground from May to September, then envelops itself in cool, dense, blue-green foliage tipped with yellow, and broods in deep shade waiting to explode once again. It has been adopted in our Caribbean region as the national tree and flower of most of our islands, including St. Maarten/St. Martin.

From childhood, it has attracted and enchanted me. I love its cool shade, its umbrella shape, its wonderful smell, and most especially its beautiful, fiery, flamboyant red color. I’ve spent the better part of the last 30 summers exploring it in my paintings.

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Another outstanding local artist is Cynric “Griff” Griffith. Originally from St. Kitts but a longtime adopted son of St. Maarten, he creates portraits that are especially soul-searching. His full body of work stands as an exercise in exploring the identity of the island beyond political boundaries, beautifully and insightfully representing the architecture, the vegetation, the landscapes and views that offer S’martiners a taste of the sublime on a daily basis. His work can be seen at the Art Line Framers Gallery on Well Road in Cole Bay. ART CRAFT CAFÉ & GALLERY Tel: +1 721-580-0462 Facebook: Artcraftgallery Sint Maarten artcraftcafe.com Local artist Tess Verheij invites you to visit her colorful Art Gallery in Old Street, Philipsburg. She is an all-round artist who works with different mediums — from

acrylics, inks and oils to pastels and even sand paintings. She makes beautiful mosaics and mirrors and has a studio behind the gallery where she runs all kinds of workshops throughout the week.

If you want to be an artist yourself, you’re happily invited to join her classes to create your own piece of art. Open Monday Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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TROPISMES GALLERY Tel: 590-690-54-62-69 Email: contact@tropismesgallery.com Facebook: tropismesgallery tropismesgallery.com Founded in 2005 by renowned painter Paul Elliott Thuleau, Tropismes Gallery has presented more than 20 shows of contemporary Caribbean artists over the past 10 years, including painters, sculptors, photographers, art conferences and books. Located in St. Martin in the famous gourmet village of Grand Case, the gallery views Caribbean culture as a unique mix of influences from the past, geography and humans.

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Culinary

Capital St. Maarten/St. Martin gave birth to Caribbean foodie tourism and remains on top of the game. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BY PAT CANTOR

C Left: Taloula Mango’s Caribbean Café Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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elebrated as a foodie destination, St. Maarten/St. Martin is filled with more fabulous, eclectic places to eat per capita than most other islands in the Caribbean, offering everything from haute cuisine to incredibly fresh local Creole style food. The island boasts hundreds of brilliant chefs and talented local cooks who understand how to please the palate, whether you are in the mood for foie gras and truffles or johnnycakes and conch.

Thanks to the diversity in cuisines, you’ll never get bored.

Given the island’s tiny size, it’s extraordinary how many restaurants we have. In other destinations, you might wait months for a reservation, but on St. Maarten/St. Martin, it’s rather easy. Many of our dining establishments have stunning water views and beach locations offering comfortable amenities such as chaise-side food and beverage service.

While talented creators are key to our culinary success, the easy access to top-quality products is our other secret. The best ingredients arrive every day from around the world, particularly from France via daily Air France flights. As one chef commented, “If it’s in the food markets of Paris in the morning, it is in the shops and restaurants of St. Martin in the afternoon.” Chefs also rely on local farmers and fishermen to supply super fresh items for their culinary creations.

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St. Maarten/St. Martin’s food scene took centuries ed in Marina Royale, Marigot waterfront and to evolve. As a crossroads for trade and commerce Concordia if you want to go really local. since the 1500s, the myriad of nationalities that have Past Marigot, up the hill toward grand plied the trade routes all left their influence on our Case, are several amazing dining opportunities. dining experiences. The dutch, French, Spanish, and You’ll find several excellent places in Friar’s Bay British imprinted the island kitchen with western serving both French and local food. Farther ahead European flavors and traditions. The Africans you’ll see the turn to Pic Paradis. Within the hisbrought savory flavors and ingredients from West toric Loterie Farm are several amazing restaurants. and north Africa. Exotic Asian influences were layContinuing past Pic Paradis, you’ll crest the ered over the years from india, indonesia, China, hill and beyond you are the most stunning views of Japan and beyond, as well as the exotic eastern grand Case, the Caribbean, Atlantic Ocean and outer European and Levantine influence from Lebanon, islands. This old fishing village is the food birthplace greece and Macedonia. in recent years, the italians of the Caribbean. it all started right here. dozens of and germans have brought the genius of their little restaurants, mostly owned by French or locals, kitchens as well. cropped up in the old fishermen houses on both sides Like the culinary flavors, our chefs hail from of the Boulevard de grand Case. it was, and still is, all parts of the world. Many are from France. pure heaven. The food scene has exploded since then, Others come from the global culinary melting pot, a and from its French and Creole offerings has grown veritable United nations of kitchen styles. We are to include everything from excellent italian to Mélange International Grill also blessed with brilliant local chefs, several of Mexican. And the restaurants have spread past the who are world-famous. Two of the most celebrated village and into the industrial estate of Hope Estate, local food stars are dino Jagtiani and Yvette Hyman. dino, owner where you’ll find one of the most brilliant restaurants tucked inside a and executive chef of the acclaimed Temptation in the Starz Casino huge wine warehouse. Tuesday nights in grand Case during high seacomplex, is an award-winning culinary genius and the first St. son is a raucous celebration of food, music and life.

Maartener to graduate from the Culinary institute of America in Past grand Case, off the main road, are Mont Veron and new York. He is one of only a few Caribbean-born chefs to cook at Anse Marcel, offering superb food experiences. Back on the “highthe iconic James Beard House in new York City, and recently pubway” you’ll pass Orient Beach, which is filled with dozens of places lished a stunning cookbook in collaboration with local artist Sir to dine either in the village, along the beach or on the main road.

Roland Richardson and poet Laura Richardson.

On the dutch side, dining begins at on Oyster Pond and Yvette Hyman was perhaps the most beloved Creole chef on dawn Beach. Once-sleepy resorts have developed into sprawling island, who along with her husband, Felix, opened Chez Yvette in destinations offering multiple food choices. next stop is Philipsburg, 1983 in the remote reaches of French Quarter. Although she passed the apex of dutch-side food choices. Like grand Case, it was the several years ago, Felix continues the tradition of island authenticity primary destination for excellent food at the beginning of island and warm, friendly service. This is real St. Martin style, with superbly tourism. Today, the dutch-side food scene stretches from Front prepared mains like fish, conch, goat stew, ribs and stewed chicken Street in Philipsburg all the way to Puerto Cupecoy. You’ll discover served with heaping platters of rice and peas and sides of freshly hundreds of eateries from great Bay in Philipsburg all the way to made johnnycakes. The House of nehesi Publishing has published Simpson Bay, Cole Bay/Orange grove, Pelican Hill, the airport her eponymous cookbook, From Yvette’s Kitchen to Your Table. area, Maho, Cupecoy and the dutch Lowlands. in addition to Chez Yvette and Temptation, you’ll find crenow you understand why visitors arrive in St. Maarten/St. ative and interesting food just about everywhere on the island. Start Martin for the sun and beach and return year after year for the food! your culinary tour on the French side in Baie nettlé. The new colAs we say in French, bon appétit! And in dutch, smakelijk eten!

Regardless of whether you choose St. Maarten dutch side lection of beachside restaurants delivers pure pleasure to the palate, restaurants, St. Martin French side restaurants, grand Case as do the lagoon-side destinations. Sandy grand offers several dinrestaurants, Cupecoy restaurants at Starz Casino (formerly ing experiences from French to local.

Atlantis), Philipsburg restaurants, Simpson Bay restaurants or Head to Marigot for even more exotic flavors blending the dawn Beach restaurants, you’ll quickly get the point: great dining best of French cooking with Thai, fusion, local barbecue joints, lobabounds on St. Maarten and St. Martin. ster, burgers and more. Many of the dozens of restaurants are locatVISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Dining in Simpson Bay and Cole Bay

MÉLANGE INTERNATIONAL GRILL Princess Port de Plaisance 155 Union Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-526-4049 melangesxm.com Combining the feel of backyard barbecue with a contemporary dining finesse, Mélange International Grill, located in Port de Plaisance next to the dazzling Princess Casino, truly is a new culinary experience within the gourmet capital of the Caribbean, St. Maarten/ St. Martin. The young entrepreneur cum executive chef of Mélange, Nikhil Gurnani, is a graduate from the world’s finest hospitality school, Les Roches International in Switzerland. From his profound passion for food and international exposure emerged Mélange, with its unique grill on table concept. Mélange offers a wide array of skewers, which are grilled to perfection right at your table. The restaurant features a culinary ethnicity of skewers/ kebabs in an international fusion, embracing Greek, Turkish, Moroccan, Indian, Lebanese, Persian and other global flavors seasonally.

The Grill menu offers a sumptuous variety of unlimited succulent meats, seafood and vegetarian skewer options accompanied with luscious salads, tantalizing appetizers, signature sides and their fresh-from-the-oven bread basket. Adore the warm scintillating amber interiors while the bar connoisseurs will keep you in high spirits with their signature cocktails, finest liquors and award-winning international wines. Indulge in a sweet surrender with their signature home-

made desserts like the green tea panna cotta, exotic mango-misu or the sinful sizzling brownie.

Enjoy the exotic flavored-liqueur coffees to top it off for the nightcap. Originating from the Caribbean culinary culture, barbecue and grill foods are not only a rising global trend, but is also evidently one of the most ancient and healthiest forms of cooking. Stay healthy! Stay trendy!

BUCCANEER BEACH BAR 10 Billy Folly Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-522-9700 buccaneerbeachbar.com Located right on Kim Sha beach with beautiful turquoise sea and white sandy beach to refresh and relax you. Ample parking as well as a dock for dinghies, should you decide to travel by water. Stop by for a drink, watch a game on the large flat screens, play in the sand, watch the sunset or enjoy the fabulous nightlife.

We welcome all! Live music on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Ronnie and friends rock the bar every Saturday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. with all the best rock and blues. If you have a request, they will be sure to rock it! Children’s films are shown every Friday evening on the beach, while flat screen TV’s feature sports and the biggest Super Bowl party on the island. Celebrate the mystery of the Fireballs as they are lit on Friday and Sunday evenings, just as the sun sets and the moon begins to rise. Don’t miss out on the Crab Races. The grill is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00

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p.m. every day and the pizza kitchen from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. Open 365 days a year, from 10 a.m. until...

THE TASTE FACTORY Welfare Road Tel: +1 721-544-2550 Email: tastefactorysxm@gmail.com taste-factory.com Voted Best New Restaurant in 2011, this traditional French Boulangerie and Patisserie Gourmet Shop is an elegant and delicious place for tasty pastries, desserts, and hot bread served all day. Take out or stay and enjoy the servedall-day breakfast or lunch with a wide selection of salads, crepes, quiches, tarts, and sandwiches and now a great addition of Epicerie Fine in a comfortable air-conditioned environment with complimentary Wi-Fi and news and sports events on our TV screens. Yachts and jets provisioning and special catering are also available. Open Monday - Sunday from 6:45 a.m. to 9 p.m.

TOP CARROT Plaza del Lago Near Simpson Bay Yacht Club Tel: +1 721-544-3381 Facebook: Top Carrot SXM Lydia and Peter welcome you to a refreshing oasis of health set in a wonderful casually ethnic interior with inspiring artwork displays.

Top Carrot’s fantastic juice bar offers smoothies, freshly squeezed juices and rejuvenating concoctions that let you enjoy your fruits and veggies in countless variations. The cozy café venue features an abundance of homemade

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DID YOU KNOW?

There was a time when most of the island’s most renowned restaurants were in Grand Case, on the northwest coast of French St. Martin. They are still there and they’re as incredible as ever, but during the last several years they’ve been getting huge competition from the Dutch Side, particularly in the Cupecoy and Simpson Bay areas, and from Dawn Beach/Oyster Pond. In fact, some of the top chefs/restaurant owners from Grand Case have now moved to Simpson Bay or Cupecoy. You’ll still want to have dinners in Grand Case, but plan to explore Dutch side restaurants as well: you will not be disappointed.

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dishes, such as sandwiches, fresh salads, frittatas and omelets, yogurts, and eclectic daily specials, including at least one vegan option. There is even a really cute gift shop next to the restaurant with jewelry, clothing, incenses, allnatural beauty products, inspiring books, yoga, décor items and knickknacks.

TOPPER’S BY THE SEA Flamingo Beach Resort 6 Billy Folly Road, Pelican Key Tel: +1 721-544-6002 sxmtoppers.com This is a unique continental restaurant with a Caribbean flair serving a diverse menu of international favorites and fresh seafood. Enjoy the open-air atmosphere while watching the turquoise sea lap gently on the shore. It’s also a favorite break-

Zee Best, photo by J. Kevin Foltz

fast spot serving an American breakfast menu and specialty items like French toast kebabs and snapper and eggs with a Sunday breakfast buffet. For lunch, try Malibu chicken, Creole snapper, crab avocado salad, steak grinder or Monday’s barbecue buffet. Dinner specials include garlic-crusted mahimahi, fresh mussels, hanging kebabs and Wednesday’s all-you-can-eat Continued on page 129

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Dining in Simpson Bay and Cole Bay

dining

FRESH AND FLAVORFUL

For over 13 years, Le Grand Marché has provided its customers with a huge selection of products, quality and value for their money. Le Grand Marché, the largest supermarket chain in St. Maarten, is renowned for its huge assortment of international products and groceries sourced from the U.S., France, Holland, Italy, China, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

The produce is fresh and replenished throughout the week, including a large selection of organic fruits and vegetables. The dairy section is arguably the best on the island and caters to all customers’ needs.

Le Grand Marché stocks a huge selection of beverages, including more than 2,000 varieties of wines from all around the world. You can purchase duty-free liquor in single servings or in bulk. Fresh meat is a must-buy here — they carry certified

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LE GRAND MARCHÉ

79 Bush Road, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4400

53 Union Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-544-4144

46 Airport Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-545-3055 Rhine Road, Porto Cupecoy, Dutch Lowlands Tel: +1 721-546-4888

Angus Beef. Also, Le Grand Marché offers you a wide selection of frozen meats and frozen foods.

Le Grand Marché now offers the Carrefour line of products.

Headquartered in France, Carrefour is one of the largest hypermarket chains in the world.

The chain has stores in Bush Road, Cole Bay and Cupecoy.

Wherever you are on the Dutch side, or just across the border on the French side, you’re never far from their large variety of fresh produce at competitive prices. Here, you’ll also find ample parking, a hygienic and shopper-friendly ambience and prompt assistance in every aisle.

Dining in Simpson Bay and Cole Bay

Jimbo image here

Charter House Restaurant

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lobster buffet. Nightly entertainment is highlighted by spectacular live dance shows. For that special occasion, experience their private dining by the sea.

ZEE BEST 100 Airport Road Tel: +1 721-526-3097 zeebestrestaurant.com Established in 1983, Zee Best is a household name for vacationers and residents, serving homemade French patisseries baked fresh every morning, a great coffee selection, fresh juices, heavenly crêpes and everything you could imagine made with eggs.

Open for the sleepy heads or the early birds, breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day. Voted best breakfast place in St. Maarten for the past eight years, Zee Best also serves lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For those on the run, you can order out pastries, coffees and even breakfast. And don’t miss the famous almond croissant. The bakery, Zee Best Bakeshop on Airport Road, serves pastries straight from the oven, sandwiches, brownies, muffins, smoothies, lattes and more. An additional

location in Port de Plaisance has beautiful views across the lagoon — making breakfast even better.

Open seven days a week, Zee Best is the “zee” best place to be for breakfast and lunch.

JIMBO’S CARIBMEX ROCK & BLUES CAFE Simpson Bay Marina Tel: +1 721-544-3600 jimboscafe.com Facebook: Jimbo's Rock & Blues Cafe St. Martin YouTube: jimboscafe Bring a big appetite to Jimbo’s winner of the 2015 Crystal Pineapple awards, Restauranteur of the year — it’s gourmet Mexican made to order.

Get your taste buds going with their Mahi-Mahi Ceviche, Deluxe Nachos Grande, or California Calamari. For a main course, you'll love their famous Sizzlin’ Fajitas, fall-off the bone baby back ribs, “The Best Burger on the Island,” and there’s tons more tantalizing dishes to choose from in their extensive menu, including their famous desserts like the “Banana Jimbochanga” or their chocolate lovers’ “Sizzlin’ Brownie Sunday,” OMG, it’s to die for! The bar serves up killer margaritas, tropiContinued on page 132 VISIT S TMAAR TEN.COM

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GOOD EATS

Keeping your diet fresh and healthy while on vacation. — by alita singh St. Maarten/St. Martin lives up to its reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean with restaurants offering the latest in healthy eating and lifestyle. So vegetarians rejoice — this is the island to be on.

To start off your alternative culinary experience, visit the Freedom Fighters’ Ital Shack on Bush Road. Here you will find the best in Rastafarian vegetarian cuisine, prepared fresh and served with a variety of artisan fruit juices. This cozy spot is a cultural awakening with food for the soul.

Top Carrot in Simpson Bay Yacht Club is a haven for those who love to eat fresh and healthy. A menu of quiches, salads and other gourmet dishes are served for breakfast and lunch. Top Carrot’s juice bar takes the cake with combinations to boost energy, mood and feelings.

Sheika’s restaurant on Back Street has Caribbean flavors and dishes for authentic vegetarian or non-vegetarian culinary experiences. Try boiled ground provisions (root vegetables) and salted fish for a true St. Maarten/St. Martin treat.

Think you have to pass on the pasta to be gluten-free?

Think again, because iZi Ristorante Italiano in Paradise Plaza makes eating gluten-free easy! The restaurant was one of the first restaurants on the island to include gluten-free options of fresh pasta dishes on its menu. Crave Taste Haven in Simpson Bay is the island’s only completely gluten-free restaurant; here, the chef creates dishes with a Mediterranean flair.

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Top Carrot Restaurant Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

You can also pop into Pizza Galley in Simpson Bay for a host of gluten-free crusts with all of your favorite toppings. Yes, Pizza Galley bakes many of its pies on the good, healthy and savory stuff! Joining the ranks of the gluten-free promoters is Ristorante Al Dente in French Cul de Sac. The island’s sizable Sindhi (people of Indian descent) population has propagated a number of restaurants serving vegetarian food with spices. Enjoy fragrant lentil soups, eggplant, potatoes and other vegetables marinated in bold flavors that are an experience in themselves. All restaurants offer menus with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Sample the fare at Lal’s Curry in a Hurry and Bombay Bites in Simpson Bay, as well as Anand’s Restaurant in Philipsburg.

In keeping with the food revolution, many of the restaurants on the island offer diners vegetarian menus. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available, though not very widely.

Ask the maître d’ about your preferred options and if substitutions to dishes are possible. Also, inform your waiter about any food allergies.

If you plan to prepare your own meals, major supermarkets such as Le Grand Marché on the Dutch side of the island and Super U on the French side carry a range of gluten-free and vegan products. Nature’s Discount in Simpson Bay is also a good option.

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Continued from page 129

cal drinks and a good selection of wine and beers. A great place for families, Jimbo’s is open 7 nights a week, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. with Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

TOPPER’S RESTAURANT & BAR 113 Welfare Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-544-3500 sxmtoppers.com This popular restaurant is set in a fun, air-conditioned, Caribbean cottage. Daily specials focus on fresh seafood and certified Black Angus meats cooked to perfection.

Lunch favorites include coconut shrimp, mango chicken salad, pasta, drunken shrimp salad

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Dining in Simpson Bay and Cole Bay and award-winning burgers.

For dinner enjoy filet mignon, red snapper, prime rib, Alaskan king crab legs, lobster, brisket, ossobuco, sea scallops, rack of lamb and more. Try the homemade pies and free Topper’s Rhum tastings. The cozy bar is a local hangout and well known for Thursday night island-style karaoke and nightly live music.

THE HIDEAWAY BAR & RESTAURANT AT LA VISTA 53 Billy Folly Road, Pelican Key Estate Tel: +1 721-544-3005 Email:info@lavistaresort.com lavistaresort.com The Hideaway was first established in 1987 as a cozy little restaurant/bar perched beside an overflowing pool that ran over onto a spectacular view. The name says it all,

Jimbo’s Sizzling Brownie Sundae

as this secretive and tranquil nook has come to offer the perfect setting for cheerful breakfasts, long, lazy lunches and romantic candlelit dinners. The international cuisine is exquisitely presented and reasonably priced with generous portions. Unwind to the sound of carefully selected, easy-listening music and chat

with the friendly staff, who are eager to share their insights with you. At The Hideaway, you’ll experience the kind of island hospitality that will make you never want to go home again. Breakfast and lunch are served daily from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; dinner is served Tuesday to Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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Dining in Philipsburg ANTOINE’S RESTAURANT 119 Front St., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-2964, +1 721-542-1780 Email: antoinerestaurantsxm@yahoo.com antoinerestaurant.com Located on the Great Bay waterfront on the boardwalk in Philipsburg, Antoine’s Restaurant has been a star of the St. Maarten/St. Martin culinary scene since 1978. The New York Times named Antoine’s lobster thermidor the “best in the Caribbean.” The Duck in Cherry Sauce is delectable, while the Seafood Linguine is wickedly delicious. Do not miss the classic French Onion Soup and the traditional Sea Scallops Nantaise in a white wine sauce, prepared with passion by chef and coowner Pierre-Louis Kesner. The other owner, Jean-Pierre Pomarico, will welcome you in the beautiful dining room with his staff. Open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Valet parking is available.

DOMINO’S PIZZA 34 Bush Road, Cul de Sac, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-4397 62 Welfare Road, Three Palms Plaza, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-544-5954 Maho/Cupecoy +1 721 546 7722 Facebook: Domino’s Pizza St. Maarten dominos.sx Domino’s Pizza has three locations in St. Maarten/St. Martin: Simpson Bay, Philipsburg and the airport (before and after security). Order online or view the latest specials by visiting the website. It’s open late every night and offers fast delivery to all hotels. It’s perfect for after a late arrival or a long night out.

But Domino’s offers more than

just great pizza: try their ovenbaked sandwiches, penne pastas and chocolate lava crunch cakes. Other side items include breadsticks, stuffed cheesy bread, Cinna Stix, wings and boneless chicken.

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Taloula Mango’s Caribbean Café Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

NAZCA PERUVIAN RESTAURANT 121 Front St. and Boardwalk, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-543-1792 Email: nazcaperuvianrestaurantsxm@hotmail.com tropicports.com/nazcaperuvian Peru was chosen as the best culinary destination by the World Travel Awards in 2012, 2013 and 2014 for its variety of inputs and exoticism. You can enjoy a piece of Peru in St. Maarten/St. Martin at Nazca Peruvian Restaurant. Discover their variety of fish, seafood, beef and chicken platters made with authentic Peruvian ingredients. Also try the Peruvian national liquor, pisco, and a nice selection of wines, beers and cocktails. Located between Front Street and the Boardwalk with beautiful sea view, Nazca is perfect for sharing a delicious lunch or dinner.

TALOULA MANGO’S & BLUE BITCH BAR The Boardwalk, Great Bay, Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-520-5997 taloulamango.com bluebitchbar.com Great location in a restored fisherman’s house right on the boardwalk overlooking the stunning Great Bay. Here you can order a few tapas, including mini falafel, calamari, conch fritters, ribs and share.

Dig into great big burgers, Cuban pulled pork sandwiches

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138 dining

Left: Taloula Mango’s Caribbean Café Right: Holland House Photos by J. Kevin Foltz

Nazca Peruvian Restaurant, Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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and other types of sandwiches and wraps. Indulge in one of their signature cocktails like the Taloula Sangria. Blue Bitch is Taloula Mango’s little sister. In addition to special cocktails, Blue Bitch serves up local specialties like Creole grouper, Caribbean conch and dumplings, pizza, as well as tapas, burgers and ribs. Check out the restaurant’s shop for fun Blue Bitch T-shirts. On your way back home, stop for a meal at Blue Bitch’s location at the airport.

THE OCEAN LOUNGE Holland House Beach Hotel 43 Front St., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-2572 hhbh.com Overlooking Great Bay, the Ocean Lounge serves awardwinning food that is a blend of European and Caribbean flavors. The chef uses the freshest ingredients available on the island to create eclectic and modern dishes. The Ocean Lounge’s wine list, awarded with a Wine Spectator award, surely promises a great matching wine to accompany your lunch or dinner.

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Dining in Philipsburg

dining

THE PERFCT HOST

Norman Wathey of Taloula Mango’s on the importance of hospitality

Basilico International

SHEER RESTAURANT 44 Front St., Philipsburg Tel: +1 721-542-9635 sheerrestaurant.com Located in a Caribbean-style courtyard on Front Street, Sheer Restaurant is a romantic establishment open for lunch and dinner.

The cuisine is a blend of European, Caribbean and Asian flavors. Owner Valentin Davis has extensive experience in upscale resorts and fine restaurants. The intimate and romantic setting is perfect for couples and families. Outdoor dining in the courtyard is also available. Personalized valet parking is available for dinner.

Sheer Restaurant

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—by

montague kobbé

FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS, NORMAN WATHEY AND HIS WIFE, SU, have been at the core of the hospitality business in St. Maarten/St. Martin. One of their dining spots, Taloula Mango’s Caribbean Café, was the first restaurant to open on Philipsburg’s Boardwalk, an urban development completed in 2004 that drastically changed and improved the landscape of the island’s capital.

Born in St. Maarten/St. Martin, Wathey attended school in Canada and went to college in Boston before coming back to his home island in 1983. By that time the tourist industry was in full bloom, and it didn’t take long for him to turn his attention to it. Today he has more than two decades of experience as a restaurateur, and he still counts his clients as the key to success in his business. “You have to develop a close relationship with them, otherwise you can’t be on this line of work,” he says.

“Although, in all honesty, Su does most of the face-to-face work with our guests. I’m more on the business side of things.”

Business is clearly important to Wathey, and he describes the situation in St. Maarten/St. Martin: “Progress is a double-edged weapon. When you have 2.2

million people coming on boats and another million coming on planes to the island, things are going to change,” he explains. “From an emotional perspective, sometimes you wish it wasn’t so, but from a business perspective that is positive change. I still see many opportunities in St. Maarten/St. Martin, and that can only be a good thing.”

St. Maarten/St. Martin is generally considered a paradise, but Taloula Mango’s spot, overlooking the stunning Great Bay, makes almost anyone particularly envious. “I used to swim here as a child,” Wathey confides. “The bay has changed a lot since the breakwaters were built on the east side, and also with the hurricanes through the ’90s. It’s still beautiful, but sometimes I miss the old Great Bay.” This wistful statement raises the question: Would an island like ours be better off untouched and without tourists? “I have never even encountered that question before,” he says, surprised. “Everyone here appreciates our guests. That’s why this is such a special place, the Friendly Island — because here we don’t even think of visitors as tourists. We call them guests.”

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Photo courtesy of Holland House Beach Hotel Ocean Lounge Restaurant

Dining in Cupecoy

Sushi to Go

MELAO RESTAURANT & BAR 162 Rhine Road, Blue Mall, Cupecoy Tel: +1 721-586-7296 Facebook: Melao Restaurant + Bar and Sushi To-Go Instagram: @sushi_to_go_sxm St. Maarten’s largest shopping destination, Blue Mall, now offers two extra reasons to visit. Sushi To Go is located at the entrance level inside the mall, offering a large range of delicacies such as salads, rolls and special rolls, nigiris, sashimis and makis, while Melao Restaurant & Bar, located on the outdoor terrace, offers an international menu and full bar.

The restaurant is open from 12:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

143 dining

BB’S CORNER GRILL & BAR Jordan Road, Cupecoy Bay St. Maarten / St. Martin Tel: +1 721-580-5615 BB’s Corner Grill & Bar, the place to go for great variety of island food and drinks, whether it’s lunch or dinner.

Every Friday you are welcome at BB’s for karaoke, which starts at 8 p.m. Happy hour is daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. We welcome our guests from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. BB’s Corner Grill & Bar is located in Cupecoy behind Starz Casino. Fill your evening with great food, drinks and karaoke at BB’s Corner Grill & Bar.

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BasilicoInternational The Basilico Experience

Basilico International: The Basilico Experience \ Basilico International restaurant has been recognized by The Daily Herald (main St. Maarten newspaper) as #1 New Restaurant on the island.

Tripadvisor reviewers giving on average 4,5 stars out of 5 possible.

B

asilico International has been creating amazing menus that please guests time and time again. Basilico is an authentic Italian diner’s paradise. Basilico International offers not only amazing dining, but also a wonderful experience, as it comprises the Basilico Restaurant, Basilico Brick Oven Wood Fired Pizzeria, Bar and Lounge at an ideal location at the Starz (former Atlantis) Casino at Cupecoy St. Maarten.

The warm welcome of Basilico International Restaurant’s staff ushers in a diverse clientele from the local and international public, treated on every occasion to taste bud-tantalizing cuisine from unrivalled authentic Italian dishes.

These are prepared by Basilico’s talented, experienced Sicilian born chefs and consist of enticing appetizers like cherry wood smoked Carpaccio di Manzo, Insalata d’Aragosta con Frutta Esotica, tasty authentic Italian pastas, irresistible sea food and meat medleys which include Trancio di Spada alla Mediterranea, Costolettine di Agnello All’aglio e Rosmarino and Basilico’s unique Pepe Verde del Madagascar, among others. An exciting dessert menu VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

displays Italian classics such as Tiramisu, Cannolo Siciliano Scomposto or the delectable Ananas del Basilico for a satisfying end to any meal.

Great dining becomes yet more fulfilling, as diners are treated to their personal choice of air-conditioned sitting indoors within the Restaurant’s modernly elegant setting, or outdoors in the quiet of a spacious European-style canopied patio, ideal for group meetings, celebrations and lively exchanges. But at Basilico, a range of events and moods are fully catered to. Basilico Pizzeria, Bar and Lounge sits adjacent to the Restaurant and bears witness to this. It is indeed a brilliant surprise.

Here, family, friends and business associates are able to savor a wide selection of authentic Italian

pizzas, calzones, light snacks prepared in a wood fired brick oven by Basilico’s Italian pizzaiolo, while simultaneously being lured to a pool or foosball table, dart boards and entertained by 60’’ TV’s and Jumbo projector screens or a wide selection of Hookah flavors; an ambiance fitting for networking, close knit birthdays, anniversary celebrations, sports events and date nights.

The intrigue, however, does not end here. An open wine cellar stores over 700 of the best Italian, French and New World wines, and is undoubtedly incapable of disappointing any lover of great wine. An array of more than 200 bottles of liquor, alcoholic drinks, as well as draft beer complement Basilico International impressive drink list. At Basilico’s bar, having a drink presents its own unique moments, as a professional bartender create the finest cocktails and mixes.

Basilico International guarantees satisfaction with the perfect blend of Italian dining, mellow moods and mild entertainment, creating an experience that is second to none!

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Dining in Oyster Pond

dining

Canoa at Oyster Bay

AURA Steaks, Chops, and Seafood The Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa Tel: +1 721-543-6700 Aura is an adult-only, fine dining experience with an award-winning wine list.

Featuring the finest selection of steaks, chops and seafood on Dawn Beach, this oceanfront restaurant offers the perfect setting to enjoy a delicious meal. Reservations are recommended.

BIG FISH #14 Emerald Merit Drive, Oyster Pond Tel: +1 721-543-6288 559-3704 Email: contact@bigfish-sxm.com bigfish-sxm.com facebook.com/BigFishSXM twitter.com/BigFishSXM, Instagram.com/BigFishSXM South Beach meets the Caribbean! Located in Oyster Pond (Dawn Beach), Big Fish

is a hip, modern and upscale casual dining experience. The design is like nothing you will find anywhere in St. Maarten/St. Martin. The menu is diverse, with a focus on seafood. Many other options are available for the nonseafood eater including steak, chicken, pasta and vegetarian options. A full sushi menu is available, as well as a kids’ menu. Great snacks for sharing and a diverse wine list with a variety of options by the glass and full bar. The service staff is attentive and eager to please.

The outdoor patio is magnificent with a large stone wall, tiki torches, sexy lighting and cool music. The inside features three stunning chandeliers, a large comfortable bar and open kitchen concept where you can enjoy “the show.” Big Fish is great for a romantic dinner for two or a large celebration.

Corporate events are welcome and menus can be customized

Chef Wendell Laurence from Big Fish was named the 2015 Chef of the Year at the Crystal Pineapple Awards.

based on any budget. Big Fish is conveniently located just minutes from the Westin Hotel and Princess Heights. Big Fish is walking distance from the Oyster Bay Beach Resort and is located in the Coral Beach Club. Open for dinner 7 days a week from 5 p.m.

CANOA RESTAURANT 14 Emerald Merit Road, Oyster Pond Tel: +1 721-543-6442 info@canoasxm.com canoasxm.com Canoa’s Chef Sherman Marten has been in the industry for more than 30 years. He learned to cook

at a young age from his mother, who was an accomplished chef and restaurateur in the 1970s.

Marten has a degree in culinary and food service from Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island.

In 1987, he opened his first restaurant, Carry Pizza Ribs and Things. One thing led to another, and finally Marten opened Canoa Restaurant at the Oyster Pond Marina. The menu features international cuisine served with a Caribbean flair. Try Marten’s Plantain Canoa, consisting of sweet ripe plantains stuffed with a savory mince topped with mozzarella cheese and served on top of a rich tomato sauce.

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Dining in Oyster Pond

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Dining in Maho CHERI’S CAFE Maho Village Tel: +1 721-545-3361 cheriscafe.com World-famous Cheri’s Café is the place to go for delicious food, whether it’s for lunch, dinner or a special occasion.

A longtime favorite of visitors, Cheri’s Café is celebrating more than 20 years of success.

Famous for their live entertainment and “The Sweet Chocolate Band,” internationally known for their humor and great vibes, and sure to make you laugh, dance and have a great time. Cheri’s Café is known for delicious local dishes, along with great burgers, broiled lobster tails, pasta, sal-

ads, barbecue and Creole dishes. Drink specialties include refreshing cocktails and frozen beverages. They even do takeout! Fill your evening with fun, laughter, dancing and delicious food and drinks. The friendly staff is always ready to serve you and make your dining experience memorable.

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Cheri’s Cafe

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152 dining

LE SOLEIL 60 Boulevard de Grand Case, Grand Case Tel: (+590) 590-879232 restaurant-le-soleil.com Chef Stéphane Riedle and his charming wife, Myriam, are from Alsace, a region of France known for excellent cooking and very good wines. Chef Riedle’s menu reflects his heritage but with a touch of Caribbean flavor. Dine on lobster with Creole sauce, chicken cordon bleu with Muenster cheese and magret de canard.

Dining in Grand Case

Le Soleil Restaurant

Say You Saw It In

VISIT

St.Maarten / St.Martin

THE OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE ST. MAARTEN HOSPITALITY & TRADE ASSOCIATION

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

SPIGA RESTAURANT 4 Route de l’Esperance Tel: (+590) 590-524783 spiga-sxm.com

Don’t miss this popular eatery on the edge of Grand Case’s restaurant row. Dine in a century-old home remodeled with modern comforts yet retaining the warm and inviting ambiance Spiga is known for. Now with two air-conditioned dining rooms, the dining experience has been made more comfortable. Additionally, a bigger kitchen has allowed Chef Ciro Russo to better develop and expand the menu with contemporary and traditional Italian dishes. Chef owner Ciro hails from Lake Como, Italy. Although raised in the north, his parents grew up in Calabria and Sicily, so his cuisine is strongly influenced by the south — the soul of Italy.

Chef Ciro’s dedication is shown by his commitment to daily purchasing and preparation. He is involved in all aspects of the running of his kitchen, which means he guarantees the quality of all locally and imported ingredients, as well as consistency in the execution of his dishes. Handmade pasta, fresh local and imported seafood, as well as USDA meats, Italian cheeses and homemade desserts will bring you back again and again. Come for the right mix of Italian sophistication and island friendliness. Spiga offers an

extensive Italian and French wine and cocktail selection along with the professional yet personable service from Lara, Ciro’s wife, and her team. Don’t be surprised if you see Lara greeting customers by name, as Spiga enjoys an immensely loyal repeat clientele.

FOR RESERVATIONS: call +1(590) 590-524783 spiga-sxm.com

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ISLAND TREATS Bon appétit!

SALTFISH LAYER

10–12 oz. salted cod fillet Water 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped

⁄3 cup celery, chopped (leaves can be added)

1

⁄3 cup parsley, chopped

1

1 tbsp. thyme

⁄4 cup spring onions, chopped

1

⁄3 cup seasoning pepper, chopped (different colors)

1

⁄3 cup bell peppers, chopped (different colors)

1

⁄2 medium lime or lemon

1

⁄4 tsp. black pepper

1

⁄4 cup olive oil

1

PLANTAIN & SALTFISH BULJAWOU Courtesy of Canoa Restaurant FOR THE CUCUMBER SALAD TO GARNISH Create long and thin slices of cucumber.

Season with finely chopped seasoning pepper, garlic, parsley, salt and black pepper.

FOR THE PLANTAINS Heat the oil on medium intensity. Peel the plantain and slice diagonally. Fry the slices until golden brown. Remove from the fryer and dust with cinnamon and nutmeg. Dip plantain slices one at a time into the flour, then an egg mixer and back into flour mixture. Once well coated, put them back into the hot oil. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes or until golden

brown. Set aside on kitchen towels to drain excess oil.

FOR THE SALTFISH Boil the cod to get the salt out. Drain water from the fish and let cool.

Once it’s cool enough to the touch, flake the fish.

Add all chopped ingredients to the fish. Add lime/lemon, black pepper and oil. Mix together.

PLATING Place a forming ring on a plate. Spread the plantains as the first layer at the bottom of the ring, then top it with saltfish mixture. Remove the ring and garnish with the cucumber salad.

SCALLOPS AND JUMBO SHRIMP CASSEROLE APPETIZER Courtesy of Le Soleil 3 jumbo shrimp 3 big scallops

⁄2 tbsp. olive oil

1

⁄4 onion, minced

1

⁄4 tomato in cubes (seeded)

1

1 clove of garlic, finely chopped ⁄2 tbsp. flour

1

⁄2 cup of heavy cream (or 1⁄2 cup)

1

2 heaped Tbsp grated cheese Salt and pepper to taste

- Half the scallops and shrimp, add salt and pepper - Slightly brown them in a frying pan with olive oil

- Add onion, tomato and garlic, cook for one more minute - Sprinkle with flour, stir well, then add cream and let thicken

- Pour into small casserole, top with cheese

- Place under broiler so the cheese on the top melts and browns slightly, serve immediately VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

PIAZZA PASCAL

Dining in Grand Case

101 Boulevard de Grand Case, Grand Case Tel: (+590) 590-873921 Email: piazzapascal@yahoo.com piazzapascal.com

Pascal and Donna Paviani happily welcome you to their restaurant, Piazza Pascal, in the plaza at the center of restaurant row in Grand Case. Chef Pascal was born and raised in Paris, although the family is of Italian descent. He trained at the Académie de Paris. After working in the restaurant business in France, he went to America, where he met and married Donna. They had a restaurant near Detroit and later came to the island in the fall of 2009. The menu blends his French training, Italian upbringing and his love of Caribbean flavors. Enjoy simply flavorful Italian cuisine like lasagna the way Pascal’s grandmother made

it, or one of their fresh veal dishes. And don’t forget to leave room for their homemade desserts. Dine under the stars in the open courtyard or rooftop terrace. Piazza Pascal is located in the La Petite Favorite plaza in Grand Case. With Pascal in the kitchen and Donna in the dining room, you get Franco-Italian cuisine with American hospitality. Open daily from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. They are closed every Wednesday. They accept U.S. dollars for euros on cash payments.

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OCEAN 82

Chef Franck Vuillemin

82 Boulevard de Grand Case, St. Martin (+590) 590-529812 (+590) 690-350998 Email:ocean.82@hotmail.fr ocean-82.com

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Refined French cuisine with a magnificent ocean view is the mix of senses Chef Franck and owner Romain would like you to experi-

ence. Situated in the heart of Grand Case village, Ocean 82 offers

you a wide variety of seafood products served all year long like oysters and various fish, as well as more traditional meals like

braised lamb shanks. Diversity is not what is missing at Ocean 82, as

it also accommodates a special gluten-free and vegetarian menu.

Open November to May from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and June

to October from 3:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

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L'AUBERGE GOURMANDE

Grand Case, St. Martin

Tel: (+590) 590 877337

Chef Wilfred Harmeiger

laubergegourmande.com

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Awarded Caribbean Travel & Life’s “Best of the

Caribbean Readers’ Choice Award,” L'Auberge

Gourmande offers the ultimate in romantic, fine French

dining. Established in 1979, this exquisite restaurant was

one of the first to open in Grand Case. Admire the histori-

cal, 120-year-old Caribbean-styled building while our staff

guides you through our extensive wine list and elaborate

menu. Don't miss our regularly changing, stunningly pre-

sented specials. Simply superb!

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BISTROT CARAIBES

Grand Case, St. Martin Tel: (+590) 590 290829 bistrot-caraibes.com

Chef Raymond Dimitri ........................................................................

Owners Thibault and Amaury — formerly of Paul Bocuse restaurant in Lyon and the French Pavillion at Epcot in Florida — and

Chef Dimitri Raymond, formerly of great chef Wilfrid Chaplain

in Clermond Ferrand and a chef in the best restaurants of St.

Martin, welcome you. With contemporary decor throughout,

the restaurant is located on the main street in the center of

Grand Case. The restaurant features a lovely setting where

returning clientele keep rating the Bistrot Caraibes one of the

Top 5 establishments on the island. The relaxing, romantic and casual atmosphere will be a great dining experience during

your vacation in St. Martin. Reservations recommended.

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LE TASTEVIN

Chef Michel Benaziz

86 Boulevard de Grand Case, St. Martin (+590) 590-875545 (+590) 690-141716 Email: letastevin@domaccess.com letastevin-restaurant.com

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Le Tastevin welcomes you to their gourmet restaurant located in

the heart of the village of Grand Case. Philippe, the manager,

and Michel, the head chef, provide a pleasant atmosphere to

make you feel at home. Visit this true institution and discover their delightful specialties, fabulous wine list and wonderfully friendly

village. Le Tastevin restaurant offers imaginative cuisine — blending traditional French with the flavors of the islands — all mixed

with attentive service, an exceptional environment with its venera-

ble coconut trees, and overlooking the spectacular bay of Grand

Case and Caribbean Sea.

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The Red Piano Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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nightliFE

L

Party in

Paradise

Whatever your musical taste or preferred nighttime ambience, it’s all here on the island. — B Y a l i t a s i n g h

ive music, the hottest deejays and amazing bar stocking the best the island has to offer and parties are the hallmarks of the st. tapas to keep partiers fueled up and ready to dance Maarten/ st. Martin party scene. the the night away and greet the new day. island has earned its reputation as party Party with the local crowd at 747 Club central of the Caribbean. nightclubs here in simpson Bay. this club has the best beats are top class with deejays spinning from the Caribbean and the world. it is a staple house, pop, reggae, salsa, bachata and almost for locals seeking the best entertainment and fun every party sound under the sun. themed parties. tantra night Club and sanctuary in Maho the Red Piano Bar in Pelican is another invites party seekers to soak up its scintillating great place to get the night started. talented sounds and energy. the nightclub hosts featured pianists keep the crowd happy playing international and local deejays regularly to keep old school tunes and new classics, as well as the crowd moving. tantra opens Wednesday requests from patrons. One of the bar’s most for its famous ladies night and on Friday and popular nights is “Church on Monday,” A night out in the casino saturday for the weekend jam. featuring music for the soul.

Photo © St. Maarten Tourist Bureau le shore Club in Cole Bay is a chic venue for soprano’s Piano Bar in Maho is filled music, fun and partying on an elevated scale. the with live music and is a great place for dancing musical line-up has a more European flair with that continent’s chartthe night away. this spot is a destination with in a destination; grab toppers being spun along with a blend of sounds from north america dinner then smoothly groove into a night of sounds and lyrics. and the Caribbean.

For a night of fun with sexy Chocolate, check out Cheri’s Café soggy Dollar Bar in simpson Bay started its life as a yacht in Maho. sexy Chocolate is the resident band at the restaurant. Band crew hangout. today, it is the venue for the island’s ultimate outdoor members sing everything from reggae to folk songs and are very keen party. the bar is home to Deejay Bossman, who is always coming in getting diners to join in their playful antics. up with innovative ways to party, such as turning an all-white dress news Café in starz City offers unique musical experiences code party into the ultimate wet t-shirt contest. with a sophisticated flair. the deejay delights in giving his if you prefer to party under the stars, find your way to sky audience a taste of the world with special theme nights such as Beach, also in Maho. it’s like a beach set in the sky. this sufi and Bollywood nights. nightspot on the roof of sonesta Maho Beach Resort is an oasis Who says riding the school bus is no fun? take a ride on under the stars. Feel the sand under your feet and see the stars Da Party Bus (1-721-554-2858 for reservations) and your twinkle overhead as you move to the beat. feelings about that big yellow bus will never be the same. Revel in Privé hookah and sky lounge in Cole Bay brings together a converted school bus decked out in fun and artsy Caribbean sound and sushi. the rooftop nightclub is open every night, with a colors that even has an attached Creole house. go get schooled!

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Top: Basilico International Bar & Lounge Below: Rooster’s Party Bus

Karaoke is a favourite pastime and it has definitely taken a foothold in St. Maarten. The top spot to spend the night belting out lyrics, being the groupie or just sing along (even badly) to karaoke tunes is Topper’s Restaurant in Cole Bay. The karaoke master is there nightly and so are the best and the worse bathroom singers.

The island is the spot outside of Latin American for learning how to move to the spicy beat of salsa. La Bamba Beach Bar on Kim Sha Beach, Simpson Bay, is the place to shake your hips and learn all of those sensual salsa moves. Classes are held on Tuesday nights with beginners taking the floor at 7 p.m. and intermediates at 8 p.m.

After that, it’s totally fiesta time.

A party and energetic nightlife can be found on the island every day of the week. There is a plethora of small bars and clubs catering to specific musical genres and crowds such as pure Caribbean sounds and the beat of Latin America. When venturing out, seek recommendations from your hotel concierge.

St. Maarten/St. Martin is a completely duty-free island. That status has made it possible for you to savour the best the world has to offer in vodka, rums, liquors, beers and so much more. The one thing to remember is to always drink responsibly so the party can go on!

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THE RED PIANO 35 Billy Folly Road, Pelican Key Tel: +1 721-526-8802 Email: info@theredpianosxm.com Facebook: The Red Piano – St. Maarten theredpianosxm.com The Red Piano is famous for live music and a great selection of spirits. You can catch a world-renowned pianist tickling the ivories there every Tuesday through Sunday from 8 p.m. Every month a new pianist takes up the bench. During Church on Mondays from 9 p.m., The Red Piano’s famous house band — composed of the island’s top musicians — plays a mix of rock, blues and pop music, followed by one of the island’s Top DJs. Doors never close before 3 a.m. It is located behind the Hollywood Casino in the heart of the Simpson Bay Royal Resort.

ROOSTER’S PARTY BUS 5B Orange Grove Road, Cole Bay Tel: +1 721-554-6751 Email: info@roosterspartybus.com roosterspartybus.com

Rooster’s party bus is an open-top doubledecker London bus. It is fully loaded with a live DJ and a bartender to mix island specialty cocktails. It even has a full draft beer machine. Their four full-time friendly staff and driver will make sure guests have a splendid time onboard. Wednesday and Friday nights they have a bar-hopping party, from Philipsburg to Maho, stopping at three bars. The bus fare includes open bar (on the bus only), DJ, group games, peanuts, chips and onboard lavatory.

CASINO ROYALE Rhine Road, St. Maarten +1 721 545 2590 Located in Maho Village, is the largest on the island of St. Maarten, boasting over 21,000 square feet of gaming. With 21 tables of gaming, you can choose from Roulette (American and French), Craps, Blackjack and Poker (Three Card Poker 6 card bonus, Let It Ride with 3 card bonus, Caribbean Poker and Texas Hold’em). The 410 plus slot

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nightlife machines include a variety of classics and modern video slots. The casino also has a private “high-roller” area with the highest table and slot limits on the island. Open till 4 a.m.

DAWN BEACH CASINO at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort +1 721-543-6700 Westin.com/stmaarten The Westin’s Vegas style casino offers a variety of games to satisfy anyone and everyone. Roll the dice and try your luck, challenge the blackjack dealer or hit the slots.

Whether you are a serious gambler or just starting out, the Dawn Beach Casino has a game for you. Featuring 200 slot machines, slot tournaments, bingo and 10 table games including blackjack, roulette, and poker.

Open daily until 2 a.m.

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weddings

Photo by Celestial Weddings and Events

Romantic

Retreats

St. Maarten/St. Martin provides the perfect backdrop for a picturesque wedding experience, as well as top-notch wedding planners to take care of your every need. And with a vast selection of spa and wellness options on the island, you can be sure that you will be able to relax and unwind.

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Saying“I do”

inParadise

There’s no question that the uniqueness of St. Maarten/St. Martin offers couples, their family and friends a mystical treat. — By Sharon reMy, CeleSTial WeddingS

Photo by Celestial Weddings and Events

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T

Photo by Celestial Weddings and Events

he island is consistently ranked as top wedding destination hotspot for couples, and having two countries on the same island lets couples exchange vows on the dutch side and party on the French side.

There are no seasonal limitations on weddings. Because of this, many couples choose St. Maarten/St. Martin as their wedding destination to complete civil, religious or symbolic ceremonies or to renew their wedding vows. it’s also an opportunity to soak up the Caribbean sun, feel the powdery white sand, enjoy a zipline adventure through the hills or snorkel the breathtaking reefs. it’s not just a vacation — it’s the trip of a lifetime. lisa Chamarro and Curtis Michon selected the island for their nuptials and they couldn’t be happier. The couple met through mutual high school friends 15 years ago, but it wasn’t until five years later — when they saw each other again at a concert — that they reconnected and began to date. Curtis then proposed to lisa during a trip to new york City. While taking pictures of the winter wonderland around them, Curtis got down on one knee in front of the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park and revealed a beautiful glass slipper with the ring on the heel of the slipper and proposed. getting proposed to in the middle of winter is one thing, a paradise wedding is another. So what made them choose St. Maarten/St. Martin? “We had been to the island a few times and absolutely loved it and the people,” lisa says. “St. Maarten/St. Martin is such a safe, happy and friendly place, and we knew that we wanted to get married and share its beauty with our family and friends. We knew not only would our guests fall in love with St.Maarten/St.Martin like we did, but that it would also accommodate any of our guests’ needs.”

The best part of their wedding, she says, was when their eyes met just before she walked down the aisle. “The breathtaking view from the villa, the ocean and sunset in the horizon, our family and friends and yes, the décor — splendid!” everything was done to perfection.

TOPPER’S BY THE SEA Flamingo Beach Resort Tel: +1 721-520-4316 sxmtoppers.com

A fabulous spot for your most special occasion. The resort offers three magnificent beaches to choose from for your wedding backdrop. Your reception can be held in a private area of the restaurant or on the beach. Topper’s can assist you with all of your planning for your wedding or vow renewal.

CELESTIAL WEDDINGS Tel: +1 721-526-1090 Email: info@celestialweddings-stmartin.com Facebook: sxmcelestialweddings celestialweddings-stmartin.com On an island unequaled anywhere, Celestial Wedding & Events Planning Agency has been developed to provide one-stop wedding services to destination couples, their families and friends. They select the island’s top professionals, offering reliable information to enhance the wedding-moon vacation experience.

Celestial Weddings takes care of everything from engagements to fireworks and every detail in between, creating not just a memory but a personal celestial experience above expectations that surpases imaginations. Here’s to your happily ever after.

SERENITY SPA AT SONESTA MAHO BEACH RESORT & CASINO Tel: +1 721-545-2115 sonesta.com Serenity Spa offers the opportunity to relax and indulge amidst the aromas of

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Photo by Sonesta Maho Beach Resort — Serenity Spa-Serenity spa

the Caribbean. Enjoy treatments in the spa or in the private beach gazebo. The spa’s signature offerings include the Guavaberry and sugar body scrub, a treatment using Guavaberry blossoms grown on the island, which will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. A unique foot massage revives vital energy, and a full-body massage with melted shea butter completes this perfect synergy of blissful relaxation.

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The HealthyLife

Tone and pamper your body in paradise There is no better way to get those endorphins flowing than running on a tropical beach, greeting the sun in strengthening yoga poses surrounded by lush green hills or challenging your muscles in a well-equipped gym. The best part of having those energizing experiences on St. Maarten/St. Martin is that you can relax in top-rated spas afterwards.

The Sound of Om: The calm lapping of the waves on the shore and the serene hills are the perfect setting for yoga, allowing you to stretch your body in tranquility and achieve clearness of mind.

Yoga classes are available on the island through a number of yoga studios and gyms. Classes are usually held daily and can be attended for a per-class fee.

Vigorous Workouts: Fitness is a big deal for the islanders. Walkathons and

SpA

— AliTA Singh

runs are regular fixtures on the weekends. These activities are so popular that charity fundraisers are built around early morning walks and runs. If you can’t wait for a special walkathon, just lace up your sneakers and take to the streets. Popular jogging and walking paths include the Boardwalk in Philipsburg and the Simpson Bay Causeway in Simpson Bay. Spa Retreats: After working out your body and making your muscles sing, you’ll want to visit a spa to relax and recharge.

Spas are usually open seven days a week and you can customize treatments to suit your particular needs. The Good Life Spa offers a la carte and special packages that include treatments to detoxify and reinvigorate your body, tone and hydrate the skin — all with natural products.

Photo by Good Life Spa

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real estate

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Welcome

Home

Buying property on St. Maarten/St. Martin is a dream come true. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; By NaNcy DoreNkott

Photo courtesy of RE/MAX Island Properties

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Photo courtesy of RE/MAX Island Properties

V

isiting St. Maarten/St. Martin can be a dream experience, but imagine owning your own piece of paradise. Anyone can own property on the island.

Think of it: No more hotel reservations—you could just relax in your own home and enjoy the sun and sea of the Caribbean whenever you choose. On St.Maarten/St. Martin, you will find almost any type of property: condos, villas, land and commercial space.

WHERE TO BUY Because the island is only 37 square miles in size, you are never far from the beautiful beaches wherever you buy your home.

In Simpson Bay on the Dutch side, there is a beautiful selection of mostly condos, all very close to nightlife, restaurants and small shops. Pelican Key is a popular area known for the magical nighttime views of the cruise ships leaving St. Maarten. Beacon Hill is dotted with homes and condos/apartments also located near shops, restaurants and nightlife but conveniently close to the airport as well.

Cupecoy is St. Maarten’s “Gold Coast.” New high rises and condo villages line the shores of the Caribbean Sea and the lagoon, providing the perfect view for exquisite sunsets. Perhaps you can catch a glimpse of the elusive “green flash” as the sun sinks into the sea. On the opposite side of the island is the tranquil eastern coast, with the serene neighborhoods of Dawn Beach, Oyster Pond, Tamarind Hill and Guana Bay. Each morning, the sun rises and graces the beautiful mountainside villas. Whether you enjoy a relaxing stroll down a white, sandy beach or a gourmet meal at a quaint restaurant, you will feel at home in these areas.

French St. Martin also has a variety of neighborhoods, each as unique and spectacular as the next. Terres Basses is known for its exquisite ocean view and oceanfront villas. Grand Case is a charming seaside village that is home to gourmet restaurants almost too numerous to count. Orient Bay continues to be a favorite for beachgoers.

HOW TO BUY There are very few restrictions when purchasing real estate. You do not have to be a resident of the island in order to own property here.

Furthermore, in St. Maarten there are no annual property taxes, no personal capital gains taxes and it is a duty-free port, making the owning of real estate here all the more appealing.

On the Dutch side, you may purchase property in your own name or in the name of a business. Real estate transactions are always closed using the European system, whereby the civil law notary (appointed by the king of the Netherlands) is responsible to both parties and is obligated to do a proper title search to ensure a clear title transfer. All notaries are lawyers — a personal attorney is not necessary — and closings are in English. Closing costs are minimal and are the buyer’s responsibility.

These costs include a one-time government transfer tax, plus the notary’s fee, with the total of both amounting to approximately 6 percent of the sale price.

In French St. Martin, owning real estate is somewhat different, as there are annual real estate taxes and notable capital gains taxes. But like on the Dutch side, transactions are handled by the notaire (notary). The notaire is responsible for preparing the final deed and obtaining all relevant searches about the property.

All in all, the process of purchasing St. Maarten/St. Martin real estate is quite simple. And when you buy your home, you are certain to come to appreciate the beauty of having two countries on one island and the diversity in the culture that VISIT S TMAAR TEN.COM

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one small island offers. Whether you choose the French or Dutch side, you will never be far from wonderful attractions, superb cuisine and the shores of the enchanting blue sea, all of which make our island the gem of the Caribbean that it is.

ISLAND REAL ESTATE TEAM 91B Welfare Road, Simpson Bay and also Main Level of Blue Mall Tel: +1 721-544-4240 Facebook: islandrealestateteamsxm ireteam.com

This agency has been featured five times on HGTV’s “House Hunters International” and “Caribbean Life,” as well as on NBC’s “Open House.” Island Real Estate Team is widely recognized as the leading agency on the island.

Established in 2009, the “ireteam” is the largest and most experienced sales team in St. Maarten/St. Martin. They specialize on the Dutch Side, but also serve French St. Martin, Anguilla and other neighboring islands. For the most up-to-date real estate information, visit their website.

LA VISTA RESORT 53 Billy Folly Road, Pelican Key Estate Tel: +1 721-544-3005 Email: info@lavistaresort.com lavistaresort.com

Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

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In an age of sprawling hotel complexes, there is something indisputably appealing about the smaller, family-owned and operated vacation resort. The personal touch, one-to-one contact with the staff and management, and the feeling of being not just a visiting guest but part of a friendly extended family are just some of the key elements of a perfect vacation environment. La Vista Resort epitomizes the ideal “home away from home.” A familyconstructed, developed and maintained business since the late 1980s, La Vista regularly welcomes its extended family of about 2,000 guests — people from all over the world who relish a common experience of “coming home” for their vacation. So just what is it that ensures La Vista’s amazing 80 percent repeat guest list? It is certainly not merely the stunning oversized pool and the

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Photo by J. Kevin Foltz

DID YOU KNOW? THE TIRELESS PERFORMER

Joel Morand of L’Escargot is a tough act to follow —by

montague kobbé

THINK OF WHAT ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN MUST HAVE BEEN LIKE IN 1972: Less than 8,000 people lived on the Dutch side, flying boats still serviced the island, and the tourism industry was in its early stages.

Hardly anything remains from those days, right? Think again. L’Escargot in Front Street, the first restaurant to open in Philipsburg, way back in December 1972, is still going strong.

Its owners, Joel and Sonya Morand, had only been on the island for a few weeks, but as soon as they got out of the Grumman Goose that brought them here, they knew this was a special place. The Morands were no strangers to travel. Joel, a French charmer, had met the British Sonya in Bermuda and lived there for five years before going to New York, St. Thomas and finally St. Maarten/St. Martin.

“We found the perfect house for a restaurant, an old building about 200 years old,” Joel recounts. “We immediately sold our VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

place in St. Thomas, an old sugar mill, and started our business in Philipsburg.” Joel tells the story as if it happened yesterday, but it’s hard to believe it’s been far longer. “We still have some of the employees we had 43 years ago. We’re like family now.”

During the first few years, L’Escargot was the only restaurant in Philipsburg. “Then business picked up big time,” Joel reminisces.

“We opened a club in the basement, and at some point we had as many as seven restaurants.” All that, however, is in the past now. Going at a much more leisurely pace, today the couple occupy themselves with activities such as the dinner show they stage every Friday night: La Cage aux Folles. “At about 9:15 we drop the lights and out come the performers, including my wife and I.” At age 72, Joel Morand still sings and dances every week dressed in costume, and he loves it. Now that’s a tireless performer.

There are three basic types of deed transfers: fee simple (similar to those in the U.S.), government long lease and private long lease.

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Anyone can buy property on either side of the island. You do not have to be a resident to purchase real estate here.

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Property may be purchased in one’s name or in the name of a business.

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In Dutch St. Maarten, the civil law notary handles the closing. Civil law notaries are attorneys appointed by the king of the Netherlands.

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On the Dutch side, there are no annual property taxes or personal capital gains taxes.

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On the French side, the real estate transactions are handled by the notaire, but there are property taxes and capital gains taxes.

large, fully equipped luxurious accommodations with spectacular views over the Caribbean Sea. It is not even the fact that La Vista has all the amenities of a large resort, including a fantastic European restaurant and a vacation ownership program with relaxed presentations by the well-known Caribbean Al and Suzi Davis.

One word sums it all up: family. Join the La Vista family and be met with open arms and good â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ole family warmth all year round!

RE/MAX Island Properties 62 Welfare Road, Simpson Bay Tel: +1 721-544-4580 U.S. Toll-free: 888-370-7979 Email: info@remaxislandproperties.com remaxislandproperties.com

Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and nobody in St. Maarten/St. Martin sells more than RE/MAX Island Properties! For more than 20 years, RE/MAX Island Properties has offered a wide range of services, including sales, luxury vacation rentals, long-term rentals and property management. Whether you are buying, selling, renting or require property

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says. Still, the Lees went from being first-time visitors to

purchasing a timeshare in Maho to eventually building their own hotel, Princess Heights Hotel, in Oyster Pond.

Fast-forward to the present and you find Lee in the thick of

the political arena, openly but not boisterously calling for “real

change, real solutions” in the slogan of his first campaign for parliamentary seat. After 13 years at the helm of the St.

Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association, Lee unexpectedly

resigned in March 2014 from the board of the non-political

organization to run for office.

Lee’s progression from visitor to local to successful

ST. MAARTEN’S ADOPTED SON

Emil Lee’s journey from tourist to community leader —by

montague kobbé

businessman to public figure is impressive. But against the backlight

of this success, his decision to leave a position of influence to

navigate the political waters of St. Maarten is intriguing. “I started

my involvement with the SHTA with the perspective of making St.

Maarten a better place,” he says, “but as I saw our initiatives

repeatedly run into political obstacles I realized that the only way to effect change would be from the inside.”

On the surface, the values Lee champions — transparency,

WHEN EMIL LEE FIRST VISITED ST. MAARTEN in the early

accountability and fiscal discipline — almost sound reductive.

“There are some simple steps we could take to improve things, but

’80s, the island, though somewhat developed, was

there has been a lack of political will to take them,” he concedes,

Maarten/St. Martin, as a tourist with my parents when I

the future of my family, my own future are all tied to the future of

drastically different. “My initial experience of St.

was a teenager, was all beaches and restaurants,” he

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

echoing the sentiment of many locals. “The future of my business, this island, and we have a chance to make that future better.”

Useful Information

Practical tips and useful information for navigating our island paradise.

— BY ariel jamil

degrees Farenheit (27 degrees Celsius).

Hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends November 30. Sea temperature peaks at approximately 79 to 84 degrees Farenheit (26 to 29 degrees Celsius) around February, and is coldest around August, ranging from 72 to 75 degrees Farenheit (22 to 24 Celsius).

COMMUNICATION The international dialing code to call Dutch St. Maarten is 1-721, and 011-590 to call French St. Martin.

Calling from Dutch St. Maarten • To call within St. Maarten: seven-digit number • To call French Saint Martin: Landline: 011-00-590-590 + landline number Mobile: 011-590-690 + six-digit mobile number • To call USA: 1 + area code + number • To call mainland France: 011-33 + 10-digit number

APPLIANCES French side: European sockets run 220V / 60 Hz.

Dutch side: American sockets run 110V and 220V / 60 Hz.Both the French and Dutch sides sell European and/or American appliances, adapters and other electronics.

BEACHES St. Maarten/St. Martin has 37 stunning beaches, all of which are public.

Regulations vary according to the beach and which side of the island governs it.

Make sure to check in advance regarding rules for swimming, surfing, hiking, topless sunbathing and nude swimming.

The French side officially discourages beach nudity, though it is tolerated—and Club Orient on Orient Bay encourages it.

Regardless of which side of the island you’re on, please be aware of other people, families with children and private homes.

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BANK HOURS Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 or 3:30 p.m.

Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. (some banks) There are 24-hour ATMs on both sides.

BUSINESS HOURS Business hours vary with the season. During high season, stores are likely to be open all day.

Regular hours on the Dutch side are from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m., and shops are generally open from Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m. Small groceries tend to stay open until 8 or 9 p.m.

Stores on the French side open from 9 a.m. to approximately 7 p.m., but close for “extended lunch breaks,” approximately from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Most stores close on Sunday, though some may open if there are cruise ships in port.

CLIMATE St. Maarten/St. Martin has a subtropical climate with trade winds from the Caribbean Sea. The temperature averages around 80

Calling from French St. Martin • To call within St. Martin: Dial the number • To call Ducth St. Maarten: Landline: 001-721 + seven-digit landline number Mobile: 001-721 + seven-digit mobile number • To call USA: 001 + area code + number • To call mainland France: 10-digit number Free internet access is provided in most hotels, although some may charge a daily WiFi fee.

Check with your hotel prior to booking if internet is included. You can also rent a phone or buy a chip for your phone; contact Telem or UTS (Chippie) for current pricing.

CURRENCY / CREDIT CARDS Although U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere on both sides, the two official currencies are the euro on the French side and the Netherlands Antillean guilder (called naf or florin) on the Dutch side.

You can change money at banks and change points, like Moneygram or Western Union, but be aware many places do not accept travelers checks, checks from foreign banks or American Express. Most establishments will accept other major credit cards.

CUSTOMS / DUTY Although many tourist destinations claim to be duty-free, St. Maarten/St. Martin is the only destination in the West Indies that can truly claim a tax-free status and there are no particular customs procedures. Products for personal

use (tobacco, cameras and video cameras) are permitted in small quantities without being subject to specific procedures or taxes.

With no customs duties, VAT or other indirect taxes to pay, the island offers unbeatable prices on many items. Make sure to consult the authorities in your country to learn the conditions regarding taking items home after your visit. For EU residents: Travelers 16 years and older are allowed 200 cigarettes/ 50 cigars, two liters of wine and one liter of liquor (over 22 percent alcohol) or two liters of drinks (under 22 percent alcohol).

DRINKING AGE The legal drinking age on St. Maarten/St. Martin is 18 years.

GRATUITIES Tips at restaurants are generally not included in the final bill but are welcome for good service. Tipping ranges from 10 to 20 percent depending on the quality of service.

Many French-side restaurant bills include tips.

HEALTH Vaccinations are not required when entering St. Maarten/St. Martin. Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended.

High-SPF sunscreen is essential and recommended for those not used to intense sunlight. A good pair of sunglasses and a hat are strongly recommended. Protect yourself from mosquitoes by using nets, wearing long clothing and using insect repellent.

2016 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Day January 22: February 9: March 3–6: March 25: March 27: March 2: April 14:

April 27: April 30: May 2: May 5: May 15: May 27: June 2: July 1: July 14: October 10: November 11: December 15: December 25: December 26:

St. Martin Carnival begins (French side) Mardi Gras (French side) Heineken Regatta Good Friday Easter Sunday Easter Monday St. Maarten Carnival begins (Dutch side) King’s Day (Dutch side) Carnival Day (Dutch side) Labor Day Ascension Day Whit Sunday Abolition Day (French side) SXM Billfish Tournament Emancipation Day Bastille Day (French side) Constitution Day (Dutch side) St. Maarten’s Day Kingdom Day (Dutch side) Christmas Day Boxing Day

IMMIGRATION All visitors require a valid passport, and certain countries may also require a visa.

European, U.S. and Canadian visitors require a valid passport and a return or continuing ticket. Canadian residents require a landing permit in addition to a valid passport and a return or continuing ticket.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS FRENCH SIDE SAMU (ambulance) 15 Gendarmes 17 Firefighters 18 or 911 Police (Marigot) 0590-87-88-33 Police (Grand Case) 0590-87-19-76 Firefighters (La Savane) 0590-52-30-40 Firefighters (Grand Case) 0590-87-95-01 Gendarmerie (Marigot) 0590-52-21-90 Gendarmerie (La Savane) 0590-52-30-00 Gendarmerie (Quartier d’Orléans) 0590-52-35-95 Sea Rescue 0590-29-20-46 Hospital 0590-52-25-25 Emergencies 0590-52-25-52

DUTCH SIDE Emergency Ambulance Doctors on duty Police Firefighters Coast Guard Hospital

911 912 or 542-2111 5111 911 or 542-2222 919 or 542-6001 913 or 545-5075 910 or 543-1111

KIDS An ideal island for kids, St. Maarten/St. Martin offers a wide variety of activities to make children of all ages happy. Visit one of the 37 beautiful beaches, introduce them to a new water sport or explore exotic nature reserves. Many activities are ocean-oriented like snorkeling, diving, Jet Skiing, parasailing and island boat tours.

Discover the beauty of the marine park with its colorful fish, turtles, rays and corals.

Scuba diving centers have experienced divers to instruct and certify children 10 years or older. Windsurfing and surfing lessons for children are available on the calm waters of Galleon Bay and Orient Beach. Sailing lessons on real racing yachts are accessible for kids age 12 or older, and no prior sailing experience required. Guided kayak tours in the mangroves are also fantastic.

Emilio Wilson Park, located in St. Peters (Dutch side), is a great park for children to play. Kidsworld in Cole Bay is the largest indoor/outdoor playground and party center for kids ages 1 to 12.

Cay Bay has horseback/pony rides for all levels, and special ziplines at Loterie Farm

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UsefUl information

near Pic Paradis on the French side are great for kids too.

Many hotels and resorts have babysitting services and kids’ clubs with professional staff to supervise children. VIP babysitting services allow infants, children, teens and young adults to have an opportunity to create, learn, discover and enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean in the privacy of their villa or megayacht, and are available days, evenings and overnight stays but must be booked well in advance.

LANGUAGES St. Maarten/St. Martin is a melting pot with over 100 different nationalities. On the French side, French is spoken in government departments and schools. On the Dutch side, Dutch is used in government departments and some schools, but English is widely spoken everywhere. Spanish, Creole and Papiamento are also widely spoken on both sides.

NATURE Both sides have a variety of nature parks, protected beaches and waters. Environmental protection and the development of commercial activities work together; dive clubs and tour companies offer excursions in the protected waters of the Réserve Naturelle (French side).

All partners are committed to respecting the environment, defending environmental regulations and educating about all the natural heritage sites. Some of these protected sites are The Tiki Hut and Seaside Nature Park, Pinel Island, Tintamarre, Orient Bay and Creole Rock. Sea turtles are protected animals on the island, and the St. Maarten Nature Foundation Sea Turtle Watch Group has initiatives for their conservation. Both governments may forbid certain activities in certain areas (such as hiking, motorized transportation and anchorage.)

PETS You may bring pets to the island, but first consult your hotel or host to ensure your pet is welcome. Animals are temporarily admitted with a health certificate dated no more than 10 days before visit and a record of inoculations, including a rabies shot administered no more than 30 days before travel. On the French side, small dogs on a leash are welcome in most places but are not allowed on beaches.

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Useful Information

POPULATION Approximately 41,000 people live on St. Maarten and 36,000 on St. Martin for a combined total of 77,000.

RELIGION St. Maarten/St. Martin is a peaceful mix of Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Baptist, Anglican, Methodist, Jehovah’s Witness, Seventh-day Adventist, Rastafarian and Hindu communities. Due to widespread immigration and the multiethnic culture of the island, many religious communities coexist side by side; religion plays an important role in daily life so it’s important to respect everyone.

SAFETY Travelers are always advised to take safety precautions. It is discouraged to walk alone in quiet or deserted streets, especially at night. Only marked taxis booked through a reputable service should be used.

Valuables should be locked in your hotel’s safe. Do not leave handbags or other valuables unattended in cars or on beaches.

Although all 37 beaches are public, keep in mind there are no lifeguards present. It is ideal to use credit cards and not carry large amounts of cash.

TOURIST OFFICE St. Martin Tourist Office (French side) 011 (590 590) 87-57-21 or 011 (590 590) 51-05-30 stmartinisland.org

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (French side) 011 (590 590) 27-91-51

St. Maarten Tourist Office (Dutch side) 721-542-2337

Government information service (Dutch side) 721-542-4119 Chamber of Commerce (Dutch side) 721-542-3590 St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association SHTA, (Dutch side) 721-542-0108 Weather forecast (Dutch side) 721-545-4226

Rotary Club (Dutch side) 721-587-0506 or 721-586-8888 Lions Club (Dutch side) 721-542-2648

Indian Merchants Association IMA, (Dutch side) 721-587-1002 St. Maarten Marine Trade Association SMMTA, (Dutch side) 721-544-2408

St. Maarten Timeshare Association SMTA, (Dutch side) 721-542-2364

TRANSPORTATION By renting a car you can easily explore the island. Drive through mountain areas and lush tropical forests. It is easy to find your own favorite spot in the sun with a rental car.

Requirements To rent a car, you must be at least 18 years old and have held your driver’s license for at least one year. Seatbelts and child seats are mandatory. Payment must be done with a major credit card.

Speed Limit Town and city: 50 kmh (30 mph)

Traffic restrictions Drive on the right side of the road. Talking on cell phones and drinking are prohibited while driving. Driver must always wear a seatbelt.

Petrol / gas There are stations throughout both sides, and many are open 24 hours.

Parking Parking is normally easy to find, and most hotels and resorts offer secure parking.

Roundabouts Traffic already on the roundabout has preference.

Continued on page 187

Calendar of

Events

183

USefUl inforMation

Save the date! Mark your calendar so you can return to our beautiful shores during these events and festivals.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

14-17 Jan – West Indies Unique International Salsa Festival, Lowlands

This event brings together some of the world’s top salsa dancers, offering shows, workshops and plenty of parties to fine-tune your steps and twirls. salsa-saint-martin.com

22 Jan to 10 Feb — Saint Martin Carnival

This is the Carnival period on the French side of the island, featuring music, dancing and revelry in the streets.

MARCH 2016

3-6 Mar – St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, Simpson Bay

The 35th edition of this race features top competitors from more than 30 countries. heinekenregatta.com

APRIL 2016

14 Apr to 3 May – Carnival, Philipsburg

Kicking off in the middle of the month and running until early May, the Dutch side of the island features its own brand of revelry with top music groups, costume contests and more. sxmcarnival.tv

MAY 2016

3 May 3 – Fish Day, Cul de Sac Bay

This quirky festival celebrates fish dishes, with culinary demonstrations, tastings and even presentations from local artists.

Captain Oliver’s Regatta, Oyster Bay

Taking place at Captain Oliver’s Resort, this sailboat race draws competitors from all over the island. captainoliversregatta.com

JUNE 2016

Saint Martin Billfish Tournament

More than 150 fisherman compete to see who can bring in the biggest haul. billfish-tournament.com

St. Martin Book Fair (different locations)

A celebration of the Caribbean’s literary legacy, with readings, lectures and workshops.houseofnehesipublish.com/sxm /st-martin-book-fair

JULY 2016

St. Maarten Food & Wine Festival

Four-day event showcasing the culinary diversity of the island.

Taste of St. Maarten, Kim Sha Beach

This is a community event celebrating the island’s flavors with a selection of offerings from local restaurants. tasteofsxm.com

Gunslingers Steel Pan Concert, Port de Plaisance

An annual concert featuring a legendary local group.

NOVEMBER 2016

Concordia Cup, Mullet Bay A friendly two-day golf competition between golfers from the French and Dutch sides. saintmartin-golf.org

Friendly Island Cycling Championship Final Race, Simpson Bay

The final in a series of races held each year to determine who’s the top cyclist on the island. trisportsxm.com

DECEMBER 2016

Miss Caraibes Hibiscus, Marigot This annual beauty contest features contestants from all over the Caribbean and the Americas.

Holiday Celebrations

Entire island enjoys celebrating the holidays.

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184

useful information

Index of

ACCOMMODATIONS Alegria 150-151 Atrium Resort 178 La Vista Resort 177 Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino 166

ACTIVITIES Aqua Mania Adventures Atlantis Adventures — Seaworld Explorer Eagle Tours Jet Ski Tours / Pirate Tours Lagoon Incentives 12 Metre Challenge Random Wind Rhino Safari SXM Deals

OTHER ACTIVITIES AMA Tours Rooster’s Party Bus Topper’s Rhum Tijon Perfumery

ART Art Café & Gallery Roland Richardson Gallery Tropismes Gallery

CAR RENTALS Paradise Car Rental Thrifty Car Rental

NIGHTLIFE Casino Royale Red Piano Rooster’s Party Bus Dawn Beach Casino at The Westin

RESTAURANTS Alegria Antoine Restaurant Aura Basilico BB’s Corner Grill & Bar Big Fish Bistro Caraibes Buccaneer Beach Bar

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69

71 71 67 73 65 70 75 73 71 72 68 76-77 119 118 119 187 185 96 161 72 148 150-151 137 148 145 143 148 157 124

Advertisers

Canoa At Oyster Bay Charter House Cheri’s Café Domino’s Pizza Jimbo’s Rock & Blues Café Karakter L’Auberge Gourmande Le Soleil Le Tastevin Lee’s Roadside Grill & Bar Mélange Nazca Peruvian Ocean Lounge at Holland House Ocean 82 Piazza Pascal Sheer Bar & Restaurant Spiga Restaurant Sushi to Go / Melao Taloula’s Mango The Taste Factory The Hideaway Restaurant & Bar at La Vista Top Carrot Restaurant Topper’s Restaurant & Bar Topper’s by the Sea Zee Best

REAL ESTATE Carbon Acquisition Group Remax Island Properties Island Real Estate Team Jennifer’s Vacation Villas Maho Village

146 127 149 133 131 134-135 157 152 157 127 123 138 139 157 155 141 153 143 136 126 133 133 132 132 129 177 179 173 175 96

SHOPPING AMA Jewellers 71, 100-103, 192-193 Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store 107 Art of Time IFC-1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 Artistic Jewelers IFC-1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 Blanc du Nil 97, 111 Boolchand’s 104-105 Bvlgari Roma 17 Caribbean Gems 22-23 Cartier 37 Diamonds International 21, 27, 31 Edible Bouquets 99 EFFY 35 Endless Summer Swimwear 111

Guavaberry 112-113 G.N. Jewelers 115 Goldfinger 8-9 Jewels & Linens 95, 97, 115 J.N. Jewelers 95, 115 Joe’s Jewelry 86-87 Klass Electronics 93 Le Grand Marché 128 Linen Galore 106 Liptstick 16 Little Europe 114, 190-191 Little Switzerland 12, 13, 25, 29, BC Maho Pharmacy 97 Majesty Jewelers 18-19 Parmigiani 14-15 PearlGems 109 Philipsburg Pharmacy 115 Prestigious Couture 97 Promanade Mall 141 Shop N Spree 115 Simpson Bay Pharmacy 99 Maho Pharmacy 97 St. Maarten Nectar 98 The Belgian Chocolate Box 108 Touch of Gold 33 Value Jewels 10-11

SERVICES Island 92 Maho Pharmacy Philipsburg Pharmacy Simpson Bay Pharmacy Team Golden Dog The Mailbox The Daily Herald Philipsburg Broadcasting

WEDDING Celestial Weddings Topper’s by the Sea

185 97 115 187 74 185 186 186 165 165

SPAS Good Life Spa 166 L’Aqualigne 168-169 Serenity Spa 166 Westin St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa 167

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VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Continued from page 182

Alcohol / sobriety testing Alcohol testing, especially on the French side, is very strict.

Taxis Taxi Dutch side: Airport Taxi Association 721-542-1681

St. Maarten Taxi Association 721-543-7815

Taxi French side Taxiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yacht Club 011 (590 590) 87-26-07

Buses Group taxis (minibuses) cover most areas of the island. Although there is no fixed schedule, there are dedicated bus stops.

Simply wait on the side of the road or at a bus stop and raise your hand to alert the driver when a minibus arrives. Buses generally accept euros and U.S. dollars.

Ferries Depart from both the Dutch and the French side: 264-235-6205 Anguilla Link: +1-264-497-2231/ 3290

Gotcha: Funtime:

+1-264-497-2956 +1-264-497-6812 +1-264-497-6511 +1-264-235-8106 +1-264-235-7022 Cheers: +1-264-235-6205 M.V. Shauna VI: +1-264-476-6275/ 6534 Calypso Charters: +1-264-584-8504

Pinel Island Departure from French Cul-de-Sac pier ($10 round trip)

St. Barth St Maarten: St. Martin:

721-542-0032 011 (590 690) 71-83-01

Airline Handlers Arrindell Aviation: Signature Flights:

+1-721-546-7847 +1-721-546-7842

WATER St. Maarten/St. Martin does not have a freshwater source; tap water comes exclusively from the desalination plant.

Water has become very expensive and should be used sparingly for the sake of the environment. Spring and mineral water are available for purchase everywhere.

VISIT S TMAAR TEN.COM

Directory of SHTA Members ACCOMMODATIONS Alicia’s Inn +1 721-542-2403 aliciasinn.com

Atrium Beach Resort & Spa +1 721-544-2125 festiva-atrium.com Baker’s Suites +1 721-544-0095 bakerssuites.com

Beachside Villas +1 721-545-4294 caribya.com/simpson.bay/beachside.villas Belair Beach Hotel +1 721-542-3366 belairbeach.com

Carl’s Unique Inn +1 721-544-2812 carlsinn.com

Coral Beach Club +1 721-543-6306 coralbeach-club.com

Divi Little Bay Beach Resort +1 721-542-2333 diviresorts.com

Flamingo Beach Resort +1 721-544-3732 diamondresorts.com/Flamingo-Beach-Resort Holland House Beach Hotel +1 721-542-2550 hhbh.com Horizon View Beach Hotel +1 721-543-2121 horizonviewhotel.com Joshua Rose Guesthouse +1 721-523-6873 joshuaroseguesthouse.com La Vista +1 721-544-3005 lavistaresort.com

L’esperance Hotel +1 721-542-5355 lesperancehotel.com

Mary’s Boon Beach Plantation Hotel & Spa +1 721-545-4235 marysboon.com

Oyster Bay Beach Resort +1 721-543-6040 oysterbaybeachresort.com

Royal Islander Club +1 721-545-2585 royalislander.com

Royal Palm Beach Resort +1 721-544-3712 diamondresorts.com/Royal-Palm-Beach-Resort Sapphire Beach Club & Resort +1 721-545-2179 sbcwi.com Sea Palace +1 721-542-2700 seapalaceresort.com

Sea View Beach Hotel +1 721-542-2323 seaviewbeachhotel.com Simpson Bay Resort simpsonbayresort.com +1 721-544-2503

VISIT S T. MAAR TEN/S T. MAR TIN 2016

Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino +1 721-542-2446 sonesta.com/greatbay

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino +1 721-545-2115 sonesta.com/mahobeach

Sonesta Ocean Point Resort +1 721-545-3100 sonesta.com/oceanpoint

The Cliff at Cupecoy +1 721-545-2770 cliffsxm.com

The Horny Toad Guest House +1 721-545-4323 thtgh.com The Paradise Inn +1 721-543-2028 theparadiseinn.net

The Summit Resort Hotel +1 721-545-2150 thesummitresort.com

The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa +1 721-543-6700

Turquoise Shell Inn +1 721-545-2875 tshellinn.com

ACCOUNTING & LEGAL SERVICES Baker Tilly SXM +1 721-542-0448 bakertillydutchcaribbean.com

BZSE Law +1 721-542-7550 bzselaw.com GEBE Corporate +1 721-542-2213 nvgebe.com

HBN Law SXM +1 721-542-2272 hbnlaw.com

KPMG Business Support +1 721-542-3672

Island Reps Tours NV +1 721-545-2990 islandrepssxm.com

JME/Turismo Receptivo +1 721-550-5211

KK Travel & Tours +1 721-543-8971 kktravelssxm.com

Maven Voyages +1 721-588-7820

SeaWorld Explorer +1 721-542-4078 atlantissubmarines.com/stmaarten/explorer

Rising Sun Tours 001-590-590-87-1422 risingsuntours.com

St. Maarten 12 Metre Regatta +1 721-542-0045 12metre.com St. Maarten Yacht Club +1 721-544-2079 smyc.com TriSport +1 721-545-4384 trisportsxm.com AIR TRAVEL Air St. Maarten +1 721-543-1023 airsxm.com

American Airlines +1 721-546-2060

Insel Air International B.V. (599) 9-737-4440 fly-inselair.com

Menzies Aviation +1 721-546-7967 menziesaviation.com

Princess Juliana International Airport +1 721-546-7501 sxmairport.com

Signature Flight Support +1 721-546-7847 signatureflight.com/location?iata=SXM Winair +1 721-545-2568 fly-winair.sx

Magnis N.V. +1 721-544-3973 magnis.com

ASSOCIATIONS Indian Merchants Association (IMA) +1 721-544-4241

Price Waterhouse & Coopers +1 721-542-2454 pwc.com/an/en/offices/sxm.html

St. Maarten Marine Trade Association +1 721-545-2676

MGM Consultants +1 721-544-2834 mgm-consultants-sxm.com

VanEps Kunnenman VanDoorne +1 721-542-2902 ekvandoorne.com ACTIVITIES Aqua Mania Adventures +1 721-544-2640 stmaarten-activities.com/en Atlantis Casino +1 721-545-4601

BodyJet Xtreme +1 721-524-9344 bodyjetxtreme.com Eagle Tours +1 721-542-3323 sailingsxm.com

St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association +1 721-542-0108 shta.com St. Maarten Recycling +1 721-543-0155 sintmaartenrecycling.com

St. Maarten Timeshare Association +1 721-553-5862 timesharestmaarten.com

BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank of Nova Scotia +1 721-542-3317 scotiabank.com

Factor Plus +1 721-543-0546 factorplus.com

First Caribbean Bank +1 721-542-3511 cibc.com

RBC Royal Bank +1 721-546-7251 rbcroyalbank.com/caribbean/sxm/

Windward Islands Bank +1 721-542-2313 wib-bank.net CAR RENTALS Hertz Car Rental +1 721-545-4541 hertz.sxmrentacar.com Value Car Rental +1 721-545-5635 valuecarrental.com

Leisure Car Rental +1 721-545-2359 leisurecarrentalsxm.com CONSTRUCTION Liccom NV +1 721-543-7168 liccom.net

Windward Roads +1 721-542-7520 windwardroads.com

DINING & NIGHTLIFE Bamboo Bernie's +1 721-545-3622 bamboo-sxm.com

Bubble Tea Lounge & Tapas +1 721-553-3338

Buccaneer Beach Bar +1 721-522-9700 buccaneerbeachbar.com

Cheri's Café +1 721-545-3361 cheriscafe.com

Chesterfields +1 721-542-3484

Chippie Café +1 721-542-6988 Dominos Pizza +1 721-543-7374

Hard Rock Café +1 721-542-7014 hardrock.com/cafes/st-maarten Jimbo's +1 721-544-3600 jimboscafe.com

Karakter St. Maarten +1 721-523-9983 karakterstmaarten.com

Melange International Grill +1 721-526-4049 melangesxm.com Moomba +1 721-545-2485 moombasxm.com

Pineapple Pete Restaurant and Bar +1 721-544-6030 pineapplepete.com Prive Hookah & Sky Lounge +1 721-554-9038 Sheer Restaurant +1 721-542-9635

Sopranos Restaurant +1 721-545-2485 sopranossxm.com

Taloula Mango's +1 721-542-1645 taloulamango.com

Temptation Restaurant +1 721-545-2254 rareandtemptation.com

Expedia +1 721-520-1211

Topper's Restaurant and Bar +1 721-544-3500 sxmtoppers.com

Global Resourcing +1 721-542-0542 globalresourcing.org

Top Carrot +1 721-544-3381

ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS Epic Foundation +1 721-545-3009 epicislands.org

Nature Foundation St. Maarten +1 721-544-4267 naturefoundationsxm.org

EVENT PLANNING & CATERING Artemia +1 721-542-7140 artemia-sxm.com

Celestial Wedding & Events +1 721-526-1090 celestialweddings-stmartin.com

Goddard Catering Group +1 721-545-2236 goddardcatering.com INSURANCE Boogaard Insurances SV +1 721-543-0371 boogaard-insurances.com

Ennia +1 721-543-2232 ennia.com

Fatum - Guardian Group +1 721-542-2248 dutchcaribbeaneng.myguardiangroup.com

Gulf Insurance LTD +1 721-542-5206 gulfinsuranceltd.com

Nagico Insurances +1 721-542-2739 nagico.com

Pan-American Life Insurance Company +1 721-542-3195 palig.com IT SERVICES Antek +1 721-543-2112 antek.sx

Carib Web Services (590) 6906-61279 caribwebservices.com

Keijzer Computers +1 721-544-3166 keijzercomputersxm.com

MARINAS Budget Marine +1 721-544-3134 budgetmarine.com

Island Global Yachting +1 721-545-2500 igymarinas.com

JMC Marina and Boatyard (590) 590-771-005

St. Maarten Harbour Holding Company +1 721-542-8504 portstmaarten.com OTHER Checkmate Security +1 721-542-6363 checkmatesecurity.sx

GB Energy Texaco +1 721-544-5209 gbgroup.com

Greenfingers NV +1 721-542-4280

Heavenly Water N.V. +1 721-542-0619 heavenlywaters.com

Hillside Christian School +1 721-543-1750 hillsidechristianschools.org

Innovative Marketing Creations +1 721-544-7177

Lievense Consulting Engineers +1 721-542-0660 lievensecso.com

North South Net International Ltd. (345) 949-7282 northsouthnet.com Shonna Anglin-Warner +1 721-526-4189

St. Maarten Cable TV +1 721-542-4361 sxmcabletv.com

St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) +1 721-543-1111 smmc.sx The Daily Herald +1 721-542-5253 thedailyherald.sx The Experience +1 721-542-0108

Tony's Air Conditioning +1 721-520-4302

Unicorn Administration NV +1 721-544-4799

University of St. Martin (USM) +1 721-542-5171 usmonline.net US Laundry +1 721-544-4169 us-laundry.com

US Navy League +1 721-548-3211

UTS United Telecommunications Services +1 721-542-0101 www.uts.sx

Vaimex +1 721-554-4597 Zenitel +1 721-542-5414 zenitel.com

REAL ESTATE Alegria Operations N.V. +1 721-545-4000

Bethlehem Real Estate Development N.V +1 721-587-5935 Dawn to Dusk +1 721-587-8619

Indigo Bay Development Company NV +1 721-527-1326 indigobay.com

189

Island Real Estate +1 721-544-4240 islandrealestate.com Pierres Caraibes (590) 590-510-285

Princess Heights +1 721-543-6975 princessheights.com

Rice Hill Gardens Development +1 (721) 587-5935 astrid.development@ricehillgardens.com

ReMax/Island Properties +1 721-544-4062 SHIPPING SERVICES DHL +1 721-544-5081 FedEx +1 721-544-2810

Safe Cargo Services +1 721-545-2952 safe.sx Tropical Shipping +1 721-542-5522 tropical.com

SHOPPING AMA Jewellers +1 721-542-6935

Blue Mall +1 721-545-2418 bluemallsxm.com

Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store +1 721-581-5408 Antillean Liquors NV +1 721-544-5547

Ballerina Jewelers +1 721-542-4399 ballerina-jewelers.com Bergee Electronics +1 721-543-2182 svsxm.com

Blue Point Office Supplies +1 721-542-1200

Caribbean Duty Free Cigar Distributors N.V. +1 721-542-2788 cdfcdsxm.com Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco B.V. +1 721-542-2140 cltbv.com CC1 St. Maarten +1 721-542-2283

UsefUl information International Liquors Tobacco & Trading +1 721-543-7721 ilttsxm.com

Island Food Whise/Merchants Market +1 721-544-4248 merchantsmarket.com Joe’s Jewelry +1 721-543-7020 joesjewelry.com

Kam’s Trading +1 721-544-4555 kamstrading.com

Kooyman BV +1 721-543-3333 kooymanbv.com

Little Switzerland +1 721-542-3530 littleswitzerland.com Mix Italia +1 721-544-4022 mixitalia.com

Napa Auto Truck & Marine Parts +1 721-544-3355

Obersi Electronics (Xerox) +1 721-542-2785 obersigroup.com Penny’s Department Store +1 721-542-3349 Shams +1 721-543-0265 shams-sxm.com

Shipwreck Shops +1 721-542-2737 shipwreckshops.com

Simpson Bay Pharmacy +1 721-544-3653 sxmpharmacy.com

SPAS Indulgence by the Sea +1 721-542-9024

SUPPLY & DISTRIBUTION A&A Supply +1 721-542-3018

Colombian Emeralds +1 721-542-5747 colombianemeralds.com/OurStores/St Marteen

Autobev Systems +1 721-544-2006 autobev.com

Diamonds International +1 721-542-0235 diamondsinternational.com

Manrique Capriles & Sons +1 721-542-4158 media-one.com/mcgroup

Cost-U-Less +1 721-542-9860 costuless.com

Electec N.V. +1 721-544-2051 electec.info

Firgos Paper St Maarten NV +1 721-542-4486 firgospaper.espwebsite.com Guavaberry +1 721-542-2965 guavaberry.com

Divico Distributors +1 721-544-4241 divicodistributors.com

PDG Supplies +1 721-544-2134 pdgsupplies.com

Prime Distributors +1 721-544-3700 primedistributors.com

Sol St. Maarten +1 721-544-3776 solpetroleum.com/st-maarten

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