Dutch Sint Maarten has established itself as one of the hottest action spots in the Caribbean. It offers visitors more than 500 duty free shops, casinos, international restaurants, and a slew of water-sports activities.

Filled with hundreds of stores and boutiques, the capital of Philipsburg is a shopper’s paradise. On Saturday mornings, local artisans hawk their wares at an open-air market on Sualouiga Street. Back Street is another major shopping area. In addition, Maho Bay has its own complex of shops.

Like the rest of Sint Maarten, the beaches are usually bustling. Great Bay Beach boasts a talcum strand that stretches for more than a mile. Cruise ships docking nearby make an interesting backdrop. Slightly west is Little Bay Beach, where underwater visibility of up to 200 feet plus a calm current make this beach the perfect spot for a snorkelling excursion.

Around the peninsul, Pelican Keys has the largest selection of water-sports rentals, including scuba equipment, windsurfers, jet skis, and small sailboats. Parasailing and water-skiing can be arranged as well.

A tasty blend of international dishes spiced up with West Indian ingredients makes the local fare of Sint Maarten a true melting pot. After dinner visitors flock to the island’s 12 casinos. Sint Maarten’s many discotheques also provide plenty of good times. Many of the nightclubs feature dancing and live music – from reggae to merengue. From sunrise to sunset, Sint Maarten never slows down.