Anyone planning a trip to the Caribbean is full of anticipation, expectation and excitement at the prospect of sun, sea and surf. With this in mind then, what sort of things can one expect to do and see in St. Maarten/St.Martin?

Things to do and see in St. Martin: Sun, sea and sand

As with all Caribbean islands, St. Maarten’s offers visitors to its picturesque shores all the usually fun and games to be had at the seaside:
• Sailing: St. Martin’s has several catamarans for hire that allow you to either sail around the island or to island-hop; depending on your desire, time and skill.
• Diving & snorkelling: As a Caribbean island, it would be a shame if you didn’t take up the perfect opportunity to do some diving and snorkelling. The coral around the island is beautiful and the water is crystal blue clear with visibility of between 75 – 100 feet. You can explore the marine life around the island as part of your sailing trip, or as a standalone activity.
• Windsurfing: Windsurfing is a popular past time on the island and all the best surfers tend to congregate at Orient Bay Beach – which is located on the French north-side of the island.
• Kayaking: Kayaking facilities are available on the island if you want to take time out to kayak around.
• Beaches: The island is literally a treasure-trove of wonderful golden sand beaches. However, some of the more popular beaches are the Cupecoy beach (on the Dutch side of the island) and Mullet Bay and Maho Bay (on the French side of the Island).

Things to do and see in St. Maarten’s: On the shore

But, let’s face it, sun, sea and surf are not everyone’s idea of fun. Some of us prefer to stay on dry land. And this is where St. Maarten comes into a place of its own. With its rich history of friendly relations, dating back to the Treaty of Concordia signed in 1648, the island is full of historical sites and venues that you can amble and hike around. So, unlike other islands, here you can live the history. But, if staying on land is what you’re looking for, and not hiking all over the island, then you could always participate in some of the following:
• Tennis: Tennis courts are a plenty on the island, with every hotel having access to one.
• Golf: Although only 37 square miles in size, somehow the island has managed to squeeze in an exotic 18-hole championship golf course at the Mullet Bay Resort!
• Horseback riding: can be done on the island or on the beach-shores of the island.

Things to do and see in St. Martin: At night

With so many things to do during the day, you would think that St. Martin’s would be a place where you’d want to be early off to bed. In fact you would be missing out on a lot if you did that. St. Maarten’s night life is a vibrant mixture of cultures with outdoor clubs, lounges, dining on international cuisines from over 70 countries, and beach reggae parties all available to keep you going until the early morning hours. If that’s not enough fun for you in one day, on the Dutch side of the island you can also spend the night at the tables trying to win the loot for tomorrow’s fun!

Often these days we hear of horror stories of what has happened to friends and acquaintances when they were travelling out of town for a couple of days – whether on business or pleasure. Its almost reached the stage where we don’t want to travel to unfamiliar surroundings, for fear of being attacked. But, things don’t need to be like this – by following a very simple personal security procedure, you can reduce the risk of any attack on you when you travel to destinations new, leaving you with the opportunity to enjoy your stay.

Step one: Tour travel plans

Before you set off anywhere, always check to make sure (a) of the rime of your departure; and (b) that your departure is on schedule. Also, ensure that someone close to you knows what your travel plans are, but, beside that person, don’t make your travel plans a common knowledge event.

Step two: Select your travelling clothes carefully

Try to make sure you dress conservatively, yet comfortably. Also ensure that the clothes you choose do not advertise the fact that you have any conspicuous wealth (like show that you are wearing a necklace). In need consider purchasing specialized clothing; for instance, a money belt in which to keep you travellers checks and credit cards.

Step three: Packing your bag

When you go away, try not to take things you won’t need. It’s very easy to say that you are going to need lots of pairs of shoes and a camera/video-camera - but do you really need it? More often than not, the answer to that is “no”. The same rule here would apply to any stereo equipment you may want to take with you. Are you really going to have time to use it? If not, don’t take it – as it only advertises that you have wealth for any potential attacker.

Step four: travelling via public transport

Whenever you are travelling via public transport, whether that be via plane, bus, train, or boat, stay alert at all times. This means, unless you’re going to be taking a long flight, try not to sleep. Also, no matter how long the travel period is, try to avoid the temptation of consuming alcohol. If you are given the choice, try to make sure that you sit near the aisle and as close to the emergency exit as possible.

Step five: staying in the hotel

When you arrive at the hotel that your going to be staying at, ask the desk clerk to give you a room on the floors between three and five. Doing this should mean that your room is high enough up to make sure that any street criminal is not tempted to try and opportunity theft on your room, whilst at the same time making sure you are within the rescue reach of any fire engine. Also, when staying in the room, do not leave any valuables lying around the hotel room for others to see and keep your bags locked at all times.

Step six: don’t talk to strangers

Finally, it is always tempting to meet new people when we travel to new places. However, be cautious of any over friendly people. Especially don’t accept any offer to take you to any discount stores or any offer to buy you a free drink (in the latter case you’ll have no way of knowing whether or not the drink contains drugs, which could produce very serious consequences).