The island's culture is a blend of its African, French, British, Dutch, Amerindian, and Asian heritage. Although each side's culture is influenced by their respective administering countries, they share enough similar heritage and traditions that it can be difficult to tell where Saint-Martin ends and Sint Maarten begins.
The Creole population can trace most of their roots to Africa, France, the Netherlands and the British Isles. Only some stones remain from the ruins of the two forts built by the Spanish occupation in its early takeover. But during the colonial period, the British settlers and several military dominations left their idiom as the main language spoken on the island, and have made a large impact on St. Martin's culture.
In French Saint-Martin, the most practised religion is Roman Catholicism. Dutch Sint Maarten favors Protestant denominations, particularly Methodism. The island also has small Jewish, Seventh-day Adventist, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist, and Rastafari communities.
The whole island is known for its excellent cuisine. Creole, French, and West Indian cooking are particularly renowned.
Popular music on St. Martin includes a variety of styles found throughout the Caribbean. Calypso, merengue, soca, zouk, reggae, and chutney all contribute to the festive culture.
St. Martin's Dutch side is known for its festive nightlife, beaches, jewellery, drinks made with native rum-based guavaberry liquors, and casinos. The island's French side is known for its nude beaches, clothes, shopping (including outdoor markets), and French and Indian Caribbean cuisine. English is the most commonly spoken language along with a local dialect. The official languages are French for Saint-Martin, and both Dutch and English for Sint Maarten.
Our photos show L'Escargot restaurant at 96 Front Street, Philipsburg; Lizzy's Bar & Grill at 103 Boardwalk also in Philipsburg Sint Maarten; Le Bistro de la Mer, Rue F. Eboué, Marigot, Saint-Martin; Chez Coco la Maison Créole, Front de mer, Marigot and finally the former Resto Mini-Club which was the oldest restaurant on the island before being destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2017.
Source: Wikipedia (
visit link)