Saint-Martin: Marigot marketWith over a hundred stalls, the market in Marigot, the capital of the French part of Saint-Martin island, is the largest open-air market of its kind in the Caribbean, selling freshly caught fish, tropical fruits and vegetables, spices, meat, “rhum arrangé” and numerous other local products.
St Maarten, the dual nation, is renowned for numerous things: expansive beaches, plenty of sun, aquamarine waters, crystal clear, and great seafood. It is a common destination because of the sandy shores and the great jewelry prices. Jewelry in St Maarten is cheap because it is duty-free.
On the westernmost point of the French side of St. Martin lies La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St Martin, a full-service, 83-room resort whose private, secluded nature has attracted its fair share of celebrity guests (Oprah, Salma Hayek, Kevin Kline).
Dollars are accepted all over the island of St Maarten/St Martin. You can use Euro's on the Dutch side many places, but it will not be a favorable exchange rate.
The euro is used in the North (in St. Martin). Despite having two different official currencies, the US Dollar is accepted on both sides, with St. Maarten using the US Dollar the most.
Plum Bay or Baie aux Prunes beach is secluded and not so frequent a destination for tourists. Golden sands and clear turquoise water are enhanced by the peace and quiet that this beach offers. The calmer seas around this wild beach are the perfect locations for snorkeling and sometimes for surfing.
There are plenty of reasons to visit St Martin – from stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to duty-free shopping, vibrant nightlife and diverse cultures. Plus, as a dual-nation island with two different cultures and two different vibes, you get a two-for-the-price-of-one Caribbean Island vacation.