The zoo on the back side of the salt pond in Philipsburg was damaged by hurricanes Luis and Lenny but is fighting back.
One of the things that the Dutch side has done right over the years is to preserve and upgrade the beauty of Great Bay in Philipsburg.
The Butterfly Farm near Orient Beach on the French side is well worth a visit. See butterflies from caterpillar to chrysalis to full beauty. We have some photos and comments from our visit.
St Martin's highest peak (about 1400 ft) has a road most of the way to the top. You can walk up the dirt track or enjoy a stroll through Loterie Farm, seeing its many special sites and learning St Martin history.
The French side has a carnival at the usual time, ie just before Lent. There are the usual events over several days leading up to the big festivities at the carnival grounds just outside Marigot.
Heineken sponsors several days of top level racing around the island on the first weekend in March. It starts on Thursday night with a big party at Princess Casino.
The French fort, Fort St Louis, has a commanding view of Marigot harbor and is well worth the short walk up the hill. The photo on the left is from Glenn Aker.
There is a market on the waterfront in Marigot (left, click to enlarge) and on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, it gets even larger. In addition to crafts and clothing, there are fruits, vegetables, and fresh fish.
If all else fails, and especially on the rare rainy day, check out the Megaplex in Simpson Bay (544 4777).