St. Maarten offers a unique blend of Dutch and French culture in the heart of the Caribbean. The island's division, according to legend, stems from a 1648 drinking contest between the two nations. In the vibrant port city of Philipsburg, you can easily pair a relaxing day at Great Bay Beach with a leisurely stroll along the Boardwalk, where restaurants and boutique shops await just steps away.
 

Once a site of maritime battles, the Sir Francis Drake Channel is now one of the world’s premier sailing destinations. The surrounding waters of the British Virgin Islands are dotted with serene bays, pristine beaches, picturesque anchorages, stylish yacht clubs, and lively beach bars. On Virgin Gorda, named "The Fat Virgin" by Columbus for its shape, you’ll discover "The Baths," a natural wonder in the National Park. These massive granite boulders, smoothed and rounded over time, form a maze of tidal pools and caves on the shore and in the sea.

The Sir Francis Drake Channel, once a battleground for explorers, is now one of the top sailing destinations in the world. The waters around the British Virgin Islands are renowned for their stunning bays, pristine beaches, picturesque anchorages, upscale yacht clubs, and vibrant beach bars, making them a favorite for sailors. On Virgin Gorda, named "The Fat Virgin" by Columbus for its distinctive shape, you can explore "The Baths," a breathtaking natural attraction within the National Park. This unique site features massive, smooth granite boulders forming a maze of tidal pools and caves both on the shore and in the water. Enjoy the experience as you sail through the Sir Francis Drake Channel.

The Sir Francis Drake Channel, once a battleground, is now one of the most stunning sailing destinations. Jost van Dyke, the smallest of the British Virgin Islands' main islands, is a picturesque volcanic beauty with fewer than 300 residents. One of them, Foxy, has been serving cocktails since 1968, and his bar, Foxy's, is known as one of the most famous beach bars in the Lesser Antilles. The island's history is less savory, as it was named after a Dutch pirate. Today, Jost van Dyke offers visitors its finest treasures: soft sandy beaches, lush palm trees, vibrant beach bars, and the dazzling blue sea.

St. Barthelemy, often called St. Barths, has changed hands many times before it became part of France in 1877. When banker David Rockefeller bought the first estate in 1957, the island's future as a luxury destination was set. Today, it’s a haven for the international jet set and a glamorous retreat for Hollywood stars. For over 40 years, St. Barths has embraced a luxurious yet laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Stroll through Gustavia’s charming streets, with its beautifully restored colonial buildings overlooking the sea, lined with superyachts. Browse the shops for unique treasures or enjoy a sundowner by the harbor, surrounded by upscale bars and restaurants.

The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the smallest recognized states in the world, covering just 100 square miles with a population of around 53,000. Nevis, the quieter of the two islands, offers a true Caribbean paradise. Its lush rainforests cascade down an extinct volcano, leading to beautiful sandy beaches that shimmer in shades of yellow, black, and red. Charlestown, the main town, is charming and compact, offering cultural options like two museums for those looking for something beyond the warm Caribbean waters.

St. Maarten is a unique blend of Dutch influence in the south and French influence in the north, offering a slice of Europe in the Caribbean. The Dutch West India Company claimed the island in the past due to natural salt deposits, and, according to legend, the island was divided in 1648 after a drinking competition with the French. In the vibrant port city of Philipsburg, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or take a stroll through town. From the sandy Great Bay Beach, it's just a short walk to the Boardwalk, lined with restaurants, and the boutiques of the charming city center.