This is a small Island that is made up of half french and half Dutch. The French and the Dutch have coexisted for over 350 years here peacefully. One expects the differences to be quite obvious.  However spend a few days on the Island and the differences become a little fuzzy. St  Martin has become the home to just more than just the French and Dutch. There are lots Americans, Canadians, British, Germans, Chinese, Indians, Spanish, Japanese, Italians, and of course the West Indies...native born, locals. Racial Tensions are almost nonexistent here, because of the different nationalities coexisting together. The locals on the the Island are very friendly, hence the Islands nickname is the Friendly Island. St Martin makes up almost 37 square miles. You can drive around it in less than one hour. There is also a beach for every square mile...37. When it comes to finding a Caribbean escape few are better. When driving around this Island you will see everything from beautiful villa's to goats crossing in front of you on the roads. You cannot drive long either without smelling something grilling on an open flame. This Island has over 300 Restaurants for you too choose from, so eating out is a must. From Grand Case too Marigot the Capital on the French side this Island has Jets flying in from  nearby Islands in the Caribbean  just too eat here. The cuisines are as varied as French and Indonesian, Creole, Brazilian, Italian; duty free shopping for Jewelry and Caribbean art work also.  From Casino's on the Dutch side that light up the night, too more quiet secluded places on the French side this Island can please almost anyone. On the Dutch side Philipsburg the capital is strung with T-Shirts and souvenirs shops. It is a very busy cruise ship port and is often filled with lots of people. The Dutch side which built the first hotels and timeshares on the Island is home too Juliana International airport. The French side is more low keyed however Marigot the capital of St Martin is not exactly a sleepy village but does have a charm all of its own. With its bustling outdoor bistros, and its lively marina area. Marigot also has and open market on Wed's and Sat's.     St Maarten's Carnival's abounds with excitement and color of West Indian life and hospitality that has long been a tradition...French side is in Febuary and the Dutch side is in April. Beaches...All of St Martins beaches are public. The best water sports are too be found on Baie Oreintale...better known as Orient beach. Called the French Riviera of the Caribbean. With its string of bars and cafe's and bamboo shacks. Every kind of water sport including parasailing, and jet skiing, live music gorgeous scenery, you name it. Le Galion beach is a favorite of kids with its safe shallow water and mush less busy crowded beach. Friars Bay is favored by locals for its protected cove.  Baie Rouge is one of the prettiest beaches on the Island...picturesque. Plenty of beach space that has two refreshment facilities. Look for devil's hole a weird formation of rock too the right.  Cupecoy beach Is the Island's most breathtaking beach, with sandstone cliffs that make for some pretty nice picture taking late in the evenings. This beach comes and goes so you need too check the sand every day as you pass by. Guana Bay is one of my favorites and is the best for body surfing. Maho beach is spectacular with Jets landing and taking off right over head. Mullet beach is close by and its water is turquoise blue and is always changing colors. Some surfing can be found here also. IIet Pinel...this tiny Island is only a short distance away from Orient and some snorkeling can be done here. Dawn Beach known for its spectacular sunrises also has some nice snorkeling. Baie Lounge is the Island's longest beach and offers some privacy...no facilities. St Martins unique atmosphere and charms sure hooked me. You can find everything you want on St Martin...what a beautiful place.