St. MartinsUnited Kingdom

The northern half of Saint Martin is French, while the southern half is Dutch. However, there is no physical border between the two halves, the first sign of the ubiquitous hospitality here! The impression of this island that all of the 400,000 tourists who come here to relax get is that of a real-life postcard: 37 white sandy beaches, an average water and air temperature of 29 degrees, tropical forests, exceptional wildlife and plant life, no VAT, and... people of 100 different nationalities living together in harmony.

With over 500 restaurants spread over only 34 square miles, the island is considered the food capital of the West Indies; culinary excellence that is undoubtedly a result of its status as a tax haven and free port, attracting wealthy visitors and well-to-do British and American tourists. In the village of Grand-Case or on Pinel Island you can enjoy grilled lobster with your toes in the water, or at Marigot marina you can sip delicious fruit cocktails, with or without rum.

Shopaholics flock to Philipsburg, the part of Saint Martin that teems with duty free boutiques. It's a paradise for bargains for those looking to treat themselves to luxury jewellery or designer clothes. The southern part of the island is a hive of economic activity, whereas in the northern French part, life moves at a more typically Caribbean pace.

Water is everywhere in Saint-Martin. A wide range of water sports are on offer, such as diving in the turquoise waters of Anse Marcel, exploring sunken wrecks, outrigger canoeing or sea kayaking and big-game fishing Anything goes and thrills are guaranteed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Those who prefer to watch the sea from a distance can hike along the island's many trails.

In terms of transport links, Saint Martin has two airports, so come and visit this magical island.