Borders exist on the maps, but in San Martín They seem to be just a formality. Herein Small Caribbean islandwhere Dutch and French They share territory for centuries, life takes place without geographical restrictions. Here, the neighbors cross from one place to another with total naturalness, some to work, others to study and many just to enjoy the best of both worlds. The island is only one, although two nations claim their part.
He Concord treatysigned in 1648, is the Older agreement in force of the Caribbean and sealed the division of San Martín between France and the Netherlands. Initially, this pact established cooperation between both parties and mutual protection, but its application was not immediate. There were more than a dozen violations before it really was respected. Over time, the island left conflicts behind and today the relationship between both sides is an example of Binational coexistence.
Sint Maartento the south, it is part of the kingdom of the Netherlands and has a cosmopolitan energy. Philipsburgits capital, houses the airport, the cruise port and a lively commercial life. Although the Dutchman is the official language, English is widely spoken, along with a local Creole. The official currency is the Dutch Antillean Florin, although the US dollar is the most used.
In contrast, Saint Martinto the north, it reflects a more European and relaxed atmosphere. Marigotits capital, retains traditional architecture and maintains French customs such as the closure of stores at noon for lunch. The euro is the predominant currency and natural beaches and reserves offer a quieter experience and linked to nature.
The airport where airplanes almost disheve
One of the most shocking places on the island is Juliana Princess International Airporton the Dutch side. Its landing track, only 2,180 meters, ends just at the edge of the Maho Beachmaking it a unique show. Every day, tourists and curious meet in the sand to see how the planes descend a few meters from their heads.
The most intense moment comes with the take -offs: the power of the engines generates a burst so strong that they can knock down those who try to hold on to the fence nearby. Despite the warnings of the authorities about risks, emotion and adrenaline make it remain one of the most popular attractions of the island.
But beyond the expectation it generates, this airport is considered one of the most dangerous of the world. Its main challenge is the short length of the track, which forces pilots to touch land at the exact point to have the necessary space to stop safely. As a result, airplanes They descend at a very low height On the beach, offering a spectacular image but demanding extreme precision in each maneuver.
An island with more flavors than kilometers
Cultural diversity is another of San Martín’s great attractions. More than 100 nationalities They live in this small territory, which has made the island the Culinary capital of the Caribbean. The mixture of African, Caribbean and European influences is reflected in its gastronomy, from street stalls with seafood and grilled meats to haute cuisine restaurants. According to the premises, Grand Caseon the French side, it is the gastronomic epicenter, with more than 65 restaurants along its promenade.
The natural wealth of the island is equally impressive. With only 34 square miles, San Martín has 37 White sand beaches and a mountain interior that offers spectacular views. Further from the crowds, Happy Bay Beach and other less known beaches allow you to enjoy almost virgin landscapes.
San Martín also stands out for his cultural life. His Carnival is the longest in the Caribbeanwith more than two weeks of celebrations that include parades, calipso competitions and dance shows. In art, Roland Richardson It is one of the most important figures on the island. Recognized for its impressionist paintings of the national tree, the Flamboyánhas received distinctions from France and the Netherlands, including the title of Caballero granted by the Queen Beatriz de Holland.
The ethyl race that drew the border
The island’s history is full of anecdotes Curious. One of the most popular explains why the territorial division is not equitable. According to the legend, a race was organized in which a Frenchman, drinking wine, and a Dutchman, drinking gin, would walk in opposite directions from a common starting point. The place where the border would be defined.
Supposedly, French advanced faster while the Dutchman, distracted by a woman, stopped to rest. Although reality was less picturesque, the story is still proud on both sides.
With so much to discover, it is clear that in San Martín the borders are only lines in the paper. In practice, this island is a single destination, where culture, history and gastronomy create a unique identity that ignores geographical limits.
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