St. Maarten, nicknamed “The Friendly Island” is a sophisticated blend of European influence located in the northeast Caribbean.  St. Maarten has long been a favorite vacation destination attracting travelers from around the globe.  English is the predominate language on this 13 square mile tropical oasis shared by Holland and France since 1648. The French side (Saint Martin) is known for both family-friendly and nude beaches, elegant clothing boutiques and fine Caribbean and French cuisines.    The Dutch side (Sint Maarten) is where vacationers will enjoy beaches, a multitude of restaurants, jewelry shops, casinos and an active night life. The main cities are Marigot on the French side and Philipsburg on the Dutch side. Sign up for a sightseeing tour, play a round of golf, relax on the beach. There’s also an abundance of watersport activities to choose from including deep sea fishing, sailing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving and so much more.

Here are a few suggestions of things to do and places to see while on the island:

Boat tours – One of the best ways to experience the island is take a tour on a yacht, catamaran, sailboat or speedboat. Cruise, relax and snorkel around St. Maarten in style with experienced and capable captains providing an informative and enjoyable day on the water.  Sailing classes are also readily available as this area in the Caribbean is famous for it.

Little Bay Beach – A small, very family-friendly beach with exceptionally soft sand and crystal clear calm water. Conveniently located to all of the best family attractions like boat tours, water sporting activities and restaurants.

Loterie Farm –Provides fun and activities for visitors of all ages and abilities.  Try the Fly Zone zip obstacle course and follow up your adventure with a visit to the on-site treetop restaurant / bar.

Maho Beach – This unique beach is located right next to the Princess Juliana International Airport runway.  Planes fly directly overhead sunbathers at an alarming low height just before the plane touches down on the runway. The beachside bar has ice cold beers and posts flight information so you won’t miss one of the best photographic experiences of a lifetime.

The Butterfly Farm (La Ferme des Papillons) – Located close to Le Galion Beach and a great place for families to enjoy nature.  Spend time in nature by observing the color and majesty of various species of these winged beauties.

For a great resort on the island of St. Maarten, look no further than the Divi Little Bay Beach and Racquet Club. This award winning resort was voted the “2015 Best Hotel/Resort” on the island for the past two years. Their on-site spa, Indulgence by the Sea, has won “Best Spa on St. Maarten” for the last five years.  The Divi Little Bay Beach and Racquet Club is a beautiful beachfront property on a peninsula on the Dutch side. Enjoy sweeping water views and lush accommodations with all the comforts of home.  Most spacious suites feature a contemporary tropical décor and a private balcony or patio. Enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean, fully equipped kitchens and all the comforts of home.  A short walk to Fort Amsterdam and close to tourist attractions, Philipsburg Shopping District, Marigot, Grand Case and Philipsburg Shopping District, this cozy resort will certainly not disappoint even the most discriminating guest.  On-site amenities include four restaurants, three freshwater pools, two poolside/beachside bars, water sports center, fitness center, kids club, tennis court, specialty shops, grocery mart and car rental.

For information regarding purchasing a timeshare on the resale market at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort and Racquet Club, visit the experts at Timeshares Only at:  www.timesharesonly.com.

-contributed by Chris Golden