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Time Zone
GMT - 4.
Currency
Netherlands Antilles Guilder or Florin (NAG) = 100 cents.
Language
Dutch.Sightseeing
The only town of any size, Philipsburg is situated on a sand bar that separates Great Salt Pond, an étang or salt marsh, from the ocean. The entire town consists of two streets, Voorstraat (Front Street) and Achterstraat (Back Street), running the length of the isthmus and joined by short, narrow alleys. Land has been reclaimed from the marsh for the construction of a ring road; local wits have suggested that this should be called Nieuwstraat (New Street) to preserve the Dutch feel of the place. Indeed, many buildings do date back to the early colonial era, and despite the multitude of duty-free shops, Philipsburg retains a predominantly colonial atmosphere. The nine, shingled churches and the Queen Wilhelmina Golden Jubilee Monument are worth seeing. Nearby is Fort Amsterdam, dating from the time of the earliest settlers. Inland are the picturesque ruins of several plantation mansions, set in the wooded hills around Mount Flagstaff, and the Border Monument, celebrating 300 years of co-operation between the French and the Dutch. Across the border (no passports are required) is the charming market town of Marigot. Small boats are available for various watersports and fishing.
Shopping
There is a good range of high quality duty-free shopping available in Philipsburg. Shopping hours are Mon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1400-1800.
Eating Out
St Maarten's cuisine is as varied as its history, combining Dutch, French, English, Creole and, more recently, international, influences. Seafood is, of course, a speciality.
Location
The CaribbeanSt Maarten
Region
St Maarten
