“Oh the weather outside is frightful….” If this snippet from a favorite holiday song has you shivering for real, maybe it’s time to do something different for your upcoming winter vacation. Think gentle warm breezes, white sand beaches, swimming with the dolphins – think about the island with two names – St. Maarten/St. Martin.
This jewel of the Caribbean got its double moniker in 1648, when the Dutch and the French agreed to disagree and just divide the island in two. Today, one part – St. Maarten – is still governed by the Dutch and the other – St. Martin – by the French. Both sides are equally lovely, so whether you want to say you’re going on a St. Maarten vacation or you’re going to vacation in St. Martin, you’re headed for a great time.
December and January are part of the dry season on St. Maarten/St. Martin. Year-end also marks the end of the hurricane season, so no worries about extreme weather interfering with your plans. The average temps range from 73 to 82 degrees, so the weather outside is guaranteed to be fantastic, not frightful. The only downside is that demand is very high during the holidays, so the best advice is to book well in advance.
This Culinary Capital of the Caribbean’s 37 square miles are packed with over 350 restaurants that offer cuisines from the 100+ nationalities that have settled there. If goat stew isn’t for you, then how about conch fritters or exquisitely spiced dumplings simmered in a delightful array of spices?
When you’re not eating, you can hike or bike to Pic Paradis – the highest point in St. Maarten/St. Martin. Be sure to stop by the Loterie Farm in St. Martin, named for how Englishman Richard Bay came into its possession – by winning a lottery. The farm features a private nature reserve with trails, peacocks and 1,000 plant species. Adults can do the zip line and the kids can experience Ti Tarzan, an area designed just for them and supervised by certified guides.
This island paradise provides a wonderful getaway for families, singles or honeymooners. And did we mention the duty free shopping?
One good way to stay on budget is to book one of the many fabulous villas in St. Martin. These homes away from home are often right on the ocean (which is never far away in any case), and are air-conditioned and have maid service. You won’t have to sacrifice your TV or Internet and the kitchens make for easy family meals.
So, make your escape this year and vacation at St. Maarten – or if you like, St. Martin!
source : http://articles.submityourarticle.com/Travel_&_Leisure
