Saint-Martin Guide
Half-French, half-Dutch, Saint-Martin reveals its cosmopolitan face. In 1648, the colonists each peacefully allocated a section of the Antilles island to the other. The cohabitation of an array of populations over the centuries lends the island a unique character. Culture and a change of scene are at the heart of a trip to Saint-Martin.
Philipsburg, a real slice of Saint Martin life
The village of Philipsburg was established at the foot of Fort Amsterdam, in the Dutch part of the island. Ruled by several foreign settlers including John Philips, it became an important hub for colonial trade.
THE LIVELY SIDE TO THE ISLAND
Philipsburg is now one of the most touristic cities in Saint Martin. An endless procession of cruise and pleasure boats drop anchor in the city’s port. On Front Street, you can find gourmet restaurants, luxury jewelers, designer fashion boutiques and duty-free stores, the Courthouse and, of course, casinos. The city is indeed very popular for its gambling scene.
RICH IN CULTURE AND WILDLIFE
The Philipsburg History Museum invites you to take a step back into the island’s past. During your visit you will discover the secrets of the island’s first inhabitants, the Arawaks, and learn more about European colonization of Saint-Martin and the sugar-cane industry. On the way out of town, you can stop by a zoo featuring a wide variety of animal species, from colourful parrots to dangerous crocodiles.
Explore, discover
