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Saint Martin or Sint Maarten, is the smallest landmass shared by
two nations, Netherlands in the south, and France in the north.
Natural landscapes include lagoons, salt pans and beaches.
We visited this island twice and have observed how much of the
island's tourist infrastructure has been rebuilt after devastating hurricanes,
especially Irma in 2017.
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The partition treaty signed in 1648 recognized both the dual
nationality and the unity of the island.
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A border monument was erected on the highway in 1948 to
recognize 300 years of peaceful co-existence. |
Great Bay Beach and its boardwalk parallels the streets of
Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side. |
Philipsburg has colorful colonial buildings lining cobblestone
pedestrian walkways along the main shopping streets of Front
Street and Back Street.
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Philipsburg has
served as a centre of international trade since 1763. |
The historic courthouse new serves as the city
hall.
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The south east coast is a weathered dry region of cacti and
scrub forest.
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Oyster Bay is a sheltered fishing cove. At low tide, people can
walk to an offshore island. |
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Simpson Bay Lagoon is the largest inland lagoon in the West Indies.
The border between the French and Dutch sides runs through the
middle. |
Fort Louis looms over Marigot, the capital of the French side.
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Throughout the island there are many statues, especially on
roadway roundabouts, commemorating local
dignitaries and inspirational ideas, as well as common workers.
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The devastating hurricane
Irma in 2017 destroyed most buildings in St. Martin. They have since
been restored to their original "gingerbread" colonial style.
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Wall murals throughout
Marigot attest to the beauty, color and spirit of St. Martin.
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It is said that the laws are more strictly enforced on the
French side. |
Orient Beach on the French side is clothing optional.
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