Saint Martin

Antoine's view

Saint Martins is partitioned between two different nations, the French and the Dutch, the French coastline would seem to be more attractive than the Dutch.We are talking about a concordant coastline, where the mouth of Marigot's deep bay, alternate with its splendid palm hemmed beaches dotted with, mango trees. A long running bone of contention between the two countries since the island was divided in 1648, is to do with athletics. Olympism did not yet exist but it was agreed that the islands borders would be decided by a race (in which the one was not allowed to run). Two representatives from each country were put back to back and made to walk along the coast until they eventually met, a line was drawn across the island, connecting their starting point with their meeting point which became the frontier. The French had the fastest walker so therefore gained the most land...In this condominium, people are not concerned by there income, as it is tax exempt anything earned is meant to be spent. Three languages are used - French, English, Dutch and for a long period of time, three types of currency were used - the Florin, the Franc and the Dollar, all under the Tricolours flag...The introduction of the Euro has removed the need exchange money. The Dutch capital of the island has kept the charm of the small Batavians cities, well ordered with their temples. Nowdays, banks and hotels have replaced the small food stores.
It's the only French sub-prefecture where we speak english and drive convertible American cars.