The island is divided into two parts, a Dutch part and a French part.
There isn't any real border and the difference between both islands can not be seen easily.
The biggest difference might be the tourist infrastructure, which is less developed on the French side.
St.
Maarten is a center of tourism in the Caribbean and you will find a number of hotels, casinos and restaurants.
The island offers European atmosphere and is a favorite amongst Americans.
The capital city is Phillipsburg which is constructed on a narrow sandy land strip which separates the sea from the Great Salt Pond.
There are some colonial buildings and plenty of shopping possibilities for the many cruise ship passengers.
St.
Maarten is a tax free island and you will find many things cheaper than elsewhere.
St.
Martin is a typical French island where everything goes a bit slower than on St.
Maarten.
The capital city is Marigot which looks more like a village than a real city and there are only a few streets like the Boulevard de France.
The Marina Port La Royale is very romantic with plenty of restaurants to choose from.
The old Fort Louis is worth a visit, as well as the new shopping mall West Indies.
Both islands have fantastic white sand beaches but the best are located on the French part.
The Baie de Plume, Baie Longue or Baie Orient should not be missed.
The best beaches on the Dutch side are the Mullet Bay, Great Bay and Simpson Bay Beach.
The choice of hotels and resorts seems to be endless and there is something for any budget.
One of my favorite hotels in the Caribbean, the Mary's Boon Plantation, can be found on St.
Maarten.
The lovely colonial style hotel has deluxe rooms and suites which are located in the main building or the cottages direct on beautiful Simpson Bay Beach.
The hotel is ideal for a Caribbean Honeymoon!