On Location: Travel pros discover the Dutch side of St. Maarten

From October 26 to November 2, a group of Canadian travel agents travelled to Saint Martin/Sint Maarten for a familiarization trip in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourism Board, the Saint Martin Tourism Office (French side) and Vox International.

Eight days of discovery, two countries, one island: a comprehensive experience that allowed participants to immerse themselves in the fascinating cultural duality of this iconic Caribbean destination—and which PAX had the privilege of taking part in.

The trip kicked off on the Dutch territory at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, a 420-room all-inclusive located minutes from Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). 

The property offers direct access to the famous Maho Bay, a natural amphitheatre where planes literally skim the beach before landing. 

A spectacular setting to start the adventure!

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort offers a lively family atmosphere, with five restaurants, five bars, a large pool, a mini water park, a spa, a casino and a varied activity program. 

The rooms, simple and functional, benefit from an ideal location close to shops and restaurants in the area.

The agents then discovered the neighbouring all-inclusive, adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort. 

This 130-suite complex appeals with its chic, contemporary atmosphere, three pools (including the Edge Pool with a gradual entry), four bars, three restaurants, a modern fitness centre and 24-hour room service.

Still at Sonesta Ocean Point Resort, the day concluded with cocktails at the Cloud 9 Bar, a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Maho Bay, followed by a welcome dinner at Azul restaurant, featuring refined Mediterranean cuisine and a sunset over the sea. 

A perfect way to officially launch the stay!

Day 2: Discovering Philipsburg and cultural immersion

The day began with a guided tour of Philipsburg, the lively capital of the Dutch side. 

Bordered by the beautiful Great Bay beach and the shopping street Front Street, the town charms with its relaxed atmosphere, duty-free shops and pastel colonial facades.

The tour included several colorful murals highlighting the island's Creole history and culture, before an aromatic stop at Juggie's Magic Spice, where participants discovered a variety of local spices and artisanal rums. 

The visit ended on a friendly note at Big Fat Bastard Bar, a favourite among locals, ideal for sampling Philipsburg's warm and authentic atmosphere.

The group then visited Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, located on a private peninsula between Great Bay and Little Bay. 

The property, with an all-inclusive plan available, offers a relaxed atmosphere, spacious studios and suites with kitchens, several beachfront restaurants, three pools, a PADI dive centre and a spa.

In the afternoon, we headed to Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store for a workshop combining Dutch cheeses and wines or champagne. 

A gourmet experience that reflects Sint Maarten, blending European and Caribbean influences.

The day concluded with a steel pan initiation at Dow's Musical Foundation. A cultural and festive moment, immersing participants in the musical soul of the Caribbean.

Day 3: Between luxury and wild nature

The third day began at Villa Paradiso, a luxury residence perched in the hills of Oyster Pond Estates, with spectacular views of Dawn Beach and the Atlantic. 

Amenities include an infinity pool, jacuzzi, fitness room and spacious living areas.

The villa can be rented in variable formats: 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 bedrooms depending on needs.

The agents continued with a visit to Holland House Beach Hotel, in the heart of Philipsburg. 

This boutique hotel directly on Great Bay charms with its elegance, attentive service and renowned restaurant, Ocean Lounge. 

In the afternoon, the group headed to Rainforest Adventures Eco-Park, located in the heart of Sint Maarten's green hills. 

This vast eco-tourism park offers visitors the chance to explore the rainforest while enjoying spectacular panoramas of the island, the Caribbean Sea and the neighbouring islets of Saba and Saint Barthélemy.

On-site, visitors can choose from several thrilling activities, such as the famous Flying Dutchman, one of the steepest ziplines in the world, the Sky Explorer (a panoramic chairlift offering breathtaking views), the Sentry Hill Zipline or the bobsled descent course (The Schooner Ride).

During the group's visit, the main zipline was under maintenance, but the Sky Explorer tour alone was well worth it: a peaceful journey above the canopy, with stunning views of the island and ocean.

Day 4: From tropical scents to Simpson Bay waves

The day began at Nectar, a local business specializing in natural care products made from tropical ingredients like aloe vera and mango. 

Travel advisors discovered the making of these artisanal, eco-friendly products by participating in a body lotion-making workshop.

The next stop was Kim Sha Beach with Coconut Beach Watersports, which rents transparent kayaks, paddleboards and pedal boats. 

Located on the lively Simpson Bay beach, the spot offers a nice selection of water activities in a picture-perfect setting.

The afternoon continued at Maho Beach for the traditional plane spotting session, accompanied by a drink at Sunset Beach Bar, an iconic spot to watch planes skim the beach.

In the evening, we headed back to Simpson Bay to board the Tango Caribbean Dinner Cruise: a festive sunset cruise with music and dancing on deck.

Day 5: Final stops and hotel discoveries

Before leaving the Dutch side of the island, participants visited the brand-new JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort, a superb luxury property with a sleek design and focus on wellness. 

The property features spacious suites with ocean views, a nature-inspired spa and upscale dining options.

Agents also took part in a mixology workshop at the JW Culinary Classroom, where tropical cocktails and creativity were on the menu.

The program ended at Oyster Bay Beach Resort, at the eastern tip of the island, renowned for its relaxing setting and spectacular views of Saint Barthélemy.

The Dutch side of Saint Martin perfectly reflects the spirit of The Friendly Island, the island's nickname: a mix of vitality, breathtaking landscapes and sincere hospitality that makes you want to return.

Between January and August this year, 27,027 Canadians entered St. Maarten. 

Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) offers connections to many major cities in Canada, the United States, Europe and South America.

From Montreal:

• Seasonal service with Air Canada and Transat
• Sunwing and WestJet offer year-round flights

From Toronto:

• Seasonal service with Air Canada, Sunwing, Transat and WestJet
• WestJet also offers year-round flights

Arajet also offers connections from Toronto and Montreal via Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

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