keluaran hk The Caribbean island of St. Martin or Sint Maarten has its unique charm both natural and cultural to attract visitors for decades. The 87 sq km island with a population of not more than 100,000 is administered by two different nations France and Netherlands for over 360 years. This peaceful co-existence of two distinct cultures on the same land makes St Martin different from other Caribbean vacation destinations. With so many things to do and so many places to see in St Martin you are sure to get confused. Here is a list of top 5 must visit places in St Martin to help you plan your itinerary.

Philipsburg

The capital of the Dutch side, Phillipsburg is not only the commercial precinct in Sint Maarten but also act as the major gateway in the Caribbean. The town is home to Princess Juliana International Airport from where the famous Maho Bay beach is easily accessible. The planes take off near the beach and fly over it in a low altitude. The lively city also boasts of wonderful port anchoring great cruises and charter yachts.

Phillipsburg is shoppers’ heaven. The exclusive boutiques and plush stores lining the Front Street attract rich American and European tourists with exquisite jewelry, designer clothing and branded accessories. For budget travelers there is the buzzing outdoor market in Back Street with a completely different aura. Here you will find a diverse range of items at moderate prices, if you know the art of bargaining. From clothes, leather bags, swim suits, water sports gear to spices, souvenirs and handicrafts you’ll get to buy anything here.

Mullet Bay

If Natural beauty and ocean are what attract you, Mullet Bay is a must see. With sprawling white stretch of sands lined with palm trees Mullet Bay beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sint Maarten. The beach is ideal for excursion and water sports. You can enjoy sea surfing, para sailing, snorkeling and a lot of other water sports here. Not so sporty types can also spend good times with beach volleyball, music, sunbath and swimming on Mullet Bay beach. Off the beach there are restaurants, bars, pubs and casinos to chill out with friends and family.

Marigot

Marigot is the capital of the French Collectivity of Saint Martin in the northern side of the island. The small picturesque town has its unique charm to impress travelers. The town gives an air of Parisian luxury blended with Caribbean liveliness. A beautiful marina and bustling outdoor market held on Wednesday and Saturday are the main attractions of the town. Shopping is duty-free across the island. Like Back Street in Phillipsburg you’ll find fashionable clothing, swimwear, souvenirs, trinkets and a variety of items to shop at much more affordable price than at the selective stores in the town.

Orient Bay

Your vacation in the tropical beach paradise of Saint Martin would be incomplete without a visit to Orient Bay. It is the place where you can feel the quintessential French attitude blended with Caribbean laid back lifestyle. The beach has a lot more to offer to fun loving vacationers who come here with an expectation of enjoying good time. The wonderful sunrise, and a reserve marina for safe scuba diving are chief attractions. Those who would like to relax can visit the more private The Club Orient section having the official clothing optional beach of Saint Martin.

Loterie Farm

Connect with nature and absorb its unspoiled beauty at the Loterie Farm situated at the foot of Pic Du Paradis or Peak Paradise. Adventurers and nature lovers would find the sprawling 135 acres of lush green nature reserve interesting with a wonderful opportunity to try out some adventure activities like climbing, hiking, mountain biking, trekking and gliding over the tree-top canopy. Hiking through the lush green tropical forest gives you an idea of the island’s rich flora and fauna. Halt at the Hidden Forest Café to dine with some delicious French dishes and wine and then continue your journey to the top of the hill, Pic du paradise. It is the highest spot on the island that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island. In short, Loterie Farm offers truly unmatched Eco-tourism experience that makes your Caribbean Vacation memorable.