St. Martin/Maarten: Any suggestions on what to do?

[Frase]

I will be going to the island of St. Martin/Maarten in November on my cruise. I have never been there before, I do not know what to expect or what to do. Would it be a good idea to learn to speak a few phrases in Dutch or French? Anyway, I really don't have a clue on what I should do there. Does anyone have any advice or suggestions?

[NancyN]

Frase,
Power shopping at one of the numerous duty free shops (second only to St. Thomas as a shopping destination) and lounging at the beach are tops on my list. Orient Beach on the French side is my favorite. You might want to consider having a taxi driver give you a quick tour of the island (check out the quaint downtown area of Marigot on the French side) before heading to Orient Beach. After a day at the beach head back to the Dutch side and complete the day by shopping (or vice versa). In any event have a great time!
Nancy

[greggybud]

I have never understood the draw of Orient Beach except it is one of the world famous nude beaches. If you like hundreds and maybe thousands of people lying on chairs with umbrellas on a sandy beach and as you walk further south the majority of them nude, you will like Orient Beach. If you like more private or fewer people and a more lush tropical environment avoid Orient Beach.

Am I missing anything else?

I did like St Martin the town better than St Thomas since it isn't quite as commercial. You should see how many jewelery shops there are in St Thomas. I wouldnt bother with the language as there are enough English speaking people around.

[penny3333]

There are shops and a beach near the pier. We've taken a couple of snorekling trips that were ok, but not as good as some other ports. We also did the sailboat racing, which was fun. We did go to Orient beach once, they charge for the chairs and to use the restroom unless you purchase a drink. So twist my arm, I had a rum punch. The ride was interesting, lots of chickens and goats wandering the road, but nice country side. Enjoy your cruise!!

[georgi]

Definitely go to the Butterfly Farm. My boyfriend and I did that last year, and it was beautiful!