Although the island only comprises about 37 square miles, it is partitioned into two different nationalities — Dutch and French — making it the smallest landmass in the world to be shared by two separate governments. The two nations have been living peacefully (for the most part) for the past 350 years, cooperating and sharing the island's generous natural resources, beauty and tourist traffic, yet still allowing their respective national cultures to shine through. Legally, Sint Maarten is part of the Netherlands Antilles and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and St. Martin is a commune of Guadeloupe (an overseas department of France). Each side has different laws and rules, although the physical border between the two is almost imperceptible. For many vacationers (and locals, for that matter), the island is unparalleled as it affords the opportunity to visit two destinations in one, as both sides offer different culture, language, cuisine and ambiance. A real two-for-one deal in the Caribbean — what could be better?

The island is located about 150 miles southeast of Puerto Rico and sits about midway in the chain of islands in the Caribbean. There are four well-known border boundaries on St. Martin/Sint Maarten: French Quarter/Dutch Quarter, Belle Vue/Cole Bay, Oyster Pond and Low Lands/Cupecoy, although visitors and locals cross freely back and forth between the two sides without any hassle. The two capitals of the island are Philipsburg (on the Dutch side) and Marigot (on the French side). Marigot is home to about 5,800 residents and was originally a fishing village, but now offers great shopping and dining. Philipsburg houses about 1,200 residents, is known for its lively scene, and is a main port for cruise ships.

The two sides of the island have some similarities, yet each offers a unique experience for travelers. St. Martin is the place to go for quiet relaxation and seclusion. It offers quaint towns with typical French colonial architecture and nice street-side cafes. Some of the best restaurants can be found on this side of the island, specializing in sophisticated French and Creole cuisine. Head to Sint Maarten for the nightlife and for a more lively scene. Their renowned celebration of Carnival includes parades, music, dancing, and great parties that last all night. Activities abound here, from casinos to malls to dance clubs — something for everyone to guarantee an action-packed, upbeat vacation. Both sides offer unbeatable white-sand beaches, plenty of palm trees and the chance to experience some of the best island time that the Caribbean has to offer.