"One island / Two cultures" a Sint Maarten Travel Page by Glbtrotter

St. Martin/St. Maarten has been shared by the French and the Dutch in a spirit of neighborly cooperation and mutual friendship for almost 350 years.
The border is almost imperceptible and people cross back and forth without ever realizing they are entering a new country, testifying to centuries of peaceful cohabitation and the treaty that made the arrangement possible.

Between the two sides of the island there are 37 different beaches to choose from, each with its own distinctive attractions. Those on the French side tend to be more secluded and more conducive to quiet contemplation and privacy.

A considerable number of tourists stay in the island for one day only. Major cruise lines sail from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and San Juan to St.Martin. Local port is pretty busy.