The island of St. Maarten/St. Martin is the smallest occupied by two sovereign nations. Though snuggled together in a scant 37 square miles of mountainous terrain, these two countries could not be more different.

The Dutch side has large resorts/casinos, while the French side has none. As a larger hunk of the island, the French side draws far fewer visitors.

Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St. Maarten, fills a narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond. Founded in 1763 by John Philips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch navy, it soon became a bustling center of international trade.  Today, Philipsburg combines its historical legacy with 20th century excitement. Its waterfront has become a popular stop for cruise ships, and the town's many restaurants, cafes and night clubs offer entertainment well into the night.

St. Martin offers cafes, bistros and brasseries ... most serving up tasty creations with Gallic flavors and panache. St. Martin also has some of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean, with assets to please everyone: families, snorkelers, romantics and those who like to catch some rays wearing nothing but SPF 30.

Another major draw on St. Martin: the shopping. Though there are bargains to be found, and the French side is duty-free for the most part, Marigot attracts a different type of shopper from those who gravitate to the frenetic discounting deal-making emporia of Philipsburg. Those, however, who seek couture and upscale imports from France, Marigot's boutiques fit the bill.