St Maarten

St Maarten

St. Maarten is the smallest piece of land shared by two sovereign states. Legend has it that the Dutch and French boundaries of the island were determined by two men who challenged one another in a race around the island. The meeting point on the other side became the boundary, and since the Frenchman walked faster, the French claimed five more square miles than the Dutch did. Legend or not, both the Dutch and the French settled here in the 1630s and despite occupancy by the British twice, the Dutch and French have lived peacefully together ever since they arrived. Exploring the island, visitors discover St. Maartens Dutch capital of Philipsburg and the French flavor of St. Martins capital of Marigot. All around the island are fine beaches, excellent cuisine and some great duty-free shopping.