Netherlands

Aruba is a country. Specifically, it's a constituent country in that it's considered an autonomous state within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It also is considered an island country, or island nation, because its main territory is made up of one or more islands.

It was the Aruban sense of identity of themselves as Arubans within the framework of the Kingdom of the Netherlands that impelled them to seek and gain autonomy on January 1, 1986. But Aruba postponed completely defining themselves only as Arubans by halting the movement toward independence in 1990.

Overview

Sint Maarten is the Southern half of the one of the five island territories of Netherlands Antilles. This half is occupied by the Dutch, while the Northern half is occupied by the French who refer to it as Saint Martin. Sint Maarten is easily accessible for international travelers with the Princess Juliana International Airport on the lower West side of the island. This island provides an impressive and relaxing beach vacation for couples or families. Local residents speak a form of Virgin Islands Creole, but the official languages are French and English, so English-speaking travelers will find navigation easy. By day there are a few bus routes throughout Sint Maarten, but the most frequent route only runs between the capital cities of the North and South sides. Rental cars are an affordable option for most travelers and many well-known international companies are located here. Also a wide variety of lodging choices are found on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. The best accommodations are in the Philipsburg area on the beach.

The most attractive activity found in Sint Maarten is the beach. Children, families or couples will enjoy the warm sand of the white beaches and the beautiful clear ocean water. Ocean water temperatures are generally mild and waves tend to be moderate. A fun activity for all ages is ocean diving. The Ocean Explorers Dive Center provides families and couples with the unique opportunity to go on a diving expedition to see the creatures and their surroundings under the water. There are also plenty of other diving companies offering the same experience, but travelers have rated The Ocean Explorers Dive Center as the best experience. Sail Sint Maarten is found in the Simpson Bay area, giving guests the option to see the shores of the island by boat. Families will enjoy the views and the fun boat ride. Also a private boat tour option is available from Top Secret Private Excursions. This makes an excellent evening sunset cruise opportunity for couples who want a romantic adventure.

Travelers should always tip, as wait staff are paid low wages in Sint Maarten venues. Bavaria is an excellent dining venue in the Simpson Bay area of Sint Maarten, offering a casual atmosphere with contemporary cuisine choices. Prices are moderate and the food tastes delicious. Sports fanatics who must stay connected to their sport will enjoy visiting the ESPN cafe for delicious food and ESPN broadcasting on the television. In the same area is The Wharf, one of the best places in Southern Sint Maarten for barbecue and seafood. Serving Mexican cuisine, seafood and Vegetarian cuisine is Jimbo’s Mesquite Grill. This location has an outdoor dining option, providing a romantic atmosphere by night for a quiet couples’ dinner out. Situated on a waterfront location is Fusion, an excellent and versatile dining venue for couples or families. The food is fresh and scrumptious; the views of the water are breathtaking from this inviting and clean indoor location.