Pikliz.com's "St. Maarten / St. Martin by Frankie Morone." album http://public.fotki.com/pikliz/discover_europe/central-america--ca/st-marteen-by-frank/ L' île de St. Martin / St Maarten Island The smallest island in the world ever that is partitioned between two different nations, St. Martin or St. Maarten has been shared by the French and the Dutch for almost 350 years. The border is almost imperceptible and people cross back and forth without ever realizing they are entering a new country. Most of the natives speak Dutch, French and of courses English. On the same token, each side has managed to retain much of the distinctiveness of its own national culture:The French tend to emphasize comfort and elegance( la joie de vivre). The beaches are secluded, (nude sometimes) and the luxury resorts provide lavish accommodations. The restaurants offer the finest dining experiences. ( Lambi Boukané, Banane pesée,baignets; ce bon BAGAYE ) The latest French fashions can be found in many of the shops and boutiques.The smell of fresh croissants and pastries makes your mouth water.To me it was torture because my main diet consists of "starch". Small cafés and charming bistros and cozy retaurants. On the whole the atmosphere remains very relaxed. Zouk music ap joué bien fort toute coté. Ou ta komprann que ou en Haiti. Between the two different cultures in St. Martin and St. Maarten, tourists will be able to find just about every kind of activity they might want for a perfect vacation in the sun. Located midway through the chain of islands St. Martin is sunny and hot all year. I invite you to take a tour of the Island. Make a comment if you so desire.