Visit St. Maarten: A Half-Day Tour of Philipsburg’s French & Dutch Sides

When planning a trip to St. Maarten, one activity should be at the top of your list – a half-day tour of Philipsburg’s French and Dutch sides. Whether you want to experience the island’s diverse cultures and cuisines, or just soak up the laid-back Caribbean vibe, this guided tour is an absolute must-do.

St. Maarten is located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Puerto Rico and east of the Virgin Islands. It is split between French St. Martin in the north and Dutch Sint Maarten in the south. The island’s capital, Philipsburg, sits on the Dutch side and is the perfect place to explore both cultures in one place.

The half-day tour of Philipsburg’s French and Dutch sides will take you through the colonial style architecture of the historic waterfront city center, renowned for its duty-free shopping. You will then have the chance to explore the Separac World theme park and savor the culture and flavors of two nations at different international cuisine markets. Last but not least, you’ll make a stop at a local beach for some swimming and relaxing before returning to your hotel.

Itinerary

You’ll start your tour of St. Maarten by meeting your guide near Philipsburg’s cruise ship terminal. From there, you will make stops along Front Street, the main commercial street of Philipsburg where duty-free shopping awaits. You’ll get an opportunity visit different stores on this historic waterfront street. Here you can buy some souvenirs to take back home or shop for local brands like jewelry and art.

The next stop on your half-day tour of Philipsburg is the Separac World theme park. This park features different sections separated by French and Dutch flags, giving you insights into the two separate cultures that make up St. Maarten. As you pass each section, get ready to explore old world heritage stores, movie houses, casinos, restaurants and resorts.

Afterwards, you’ll make a stop at two international cuisine markets – one featuring traditional French food such as crepes and croissants, and one featuring traditional Dutch fare such as stroopwafels (syrup-filled waffles) and specialty cheeses. Adding to the incredible sights and sounds, these markets offer visitors views of the Caribbean Sea while they enjoy their food.

Afterwards, you’ll drive to a beautiful beach where you can enjoy some time swimming in the crystal clear waters of St. Maarten before returning to your hotel.

What’s included

The following items are included on this half-day tour of St. Maarten:

• Pick up and drop off service at select hotels
• English-speaking guide
• Entrance to Separac World
• Round-trip transportation
• Visit to two markets featuring international cuisine
• Time for swimming and relaxing at a beach

What You Need To Know

• The tour departs daily at 8 am.
• Duration: 4 hours.
• The tour has a minimum age requirement of 14 years.
• This tour is wheelchair accessible.
• Tour is offered in English.
• Tour requires a minimum of 2 passengers in order to operate.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an informative and interesting way to get acquainted with St. Maarten, then look no further than this half-day tour of Philipsburg’s French and Dutch sides! With its diverse cultures and delicious cuisines, this guided tour is the perfect way to explore both sides of the island in just one day. Plus, rest assured that all safety protocols are being followed so that you can enjoy your experiences without worry. To book this tour now, simply click here. So go ahead and spend a day learning about the culture, shopping for souvenirs, relaxing on a beach and tasting the best of both worlds!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Philipsburg’s French & Dutch Sides

Philipsburg is a beautiful setting in St. Maarten, known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches. However, there’s much more to Philipsburg that tourists usually overlook. From hidden gems to cultural experiences, here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Philipsburg.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Great Bay Beach is a popular spot, take a stroll to Little Bay Beach if you’re looking for a more secluded experience. Many visitors underestimate the hiking opportunities in Philipsburg, but the Devil’s Cupid and Cole Bay Hill hikes offer stunning views of the island’s natural beauty.

One of Philipsburg’s lesser-known secrets is a visit to Front Street’s Pevonia Concept store for a luxurious spa day. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a powerboat tour around the island to discover the hidden coves and breathtaking cliffs.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisines and Anecdotes

Sint Maarten has a diverse food culture, the result of both Dutch and French influences. Seek out local delicacies such as johnnycakes with saltfish, conch, and guavaberry rum. For a unique culinary experience, visit Plantain Restaurant for Creole and vegan dishes. Or visit Topper’s, a restaurant in Simpson Bay, to indulge in a lively music scene.

While indulging in the local cuisine, ask some of the locals about the history of the island’s food culture and how it was influenced by different nations, including the indigenous population.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, Art, Music, or Customs

The Sint Maarten Carnival is a lively event and a showcase of the island’s art, music and culture. It’s worth planning your visit to coincide with this festival. However, Philipsburg hosts many cultural events throughout the year, such as the Heineken Regatta in March.

The St. Maarten Museum provides insight into the island’s history and cultural traditions. It also celebrates the Creole culture that has shaped the island’s unique identity. The museum boasts numerous exhibits showcasing the history of slavery and colonialism in the region.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Philipsburg was initially colonized by the Dutch and the French. Both countries fought over the island multiple times, and the border between the two countries cuts right through the island’s middle, creating a unique blend of two European cultures. Philipsburg has seen a tumultuous history and suffered multiple natural disasters, including Hurricane Irma in 2017. Ironically, Philipsburg’s resilience in the face of these disasters has strengthened its cultural identity and made the city a tourist hotspot.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Moments of Truth

While in Philipsburg, take a moment to discover moments of truth with the island’s inhabitants. Go on a nature trail with a guide who knows the landscape and can lead you to rare locations that remain undiscovered.

If you’re feeling adventurous, book a scuba diving tour to find secluded swim spots and vibrant marine life in Philipsburg’s stunning water bodies. You can also hike through the island’s natural parks and mangrove forests.

In conclusion, Philipsburg offers much more than its beautiful beaches. Immerse yourself in local culture and history for an unforgettable and unique experience.