Saint Martin/Sint Maarten is unique by any standards- historically, geographically, and culturally. Situated in the Caribbean Leeward Islands and only 37 square miles across, it is remarkable for its dual nationality: French and Dutch. The border is almost invisible and people cross back and forth without ever really realizing they are entering a new country. The only sign is a monument between Union Road and Bellevue commemorating over 350 years of peaceful cohabitation and the Treaty that made the arrangement possible. With its two bustling capitals Marigot (on the French side) and Philipsburg (on the Dutch) and its subtle and not so subtle cultural and architectural differences, there are endless opportunities for everyone, from the casinos in Philipsburg to a day's hike through the jungles of Loterie Farm near Pic Paradis.
The towns on the French side are a mixture of markets that are typically Caribbean and cafes that are typically French. On the Dutch side, Philipsburg is a popular mooring place for cruise ships and with its many restaurants, shops, night clubs, and casinos has long been an active center for trade and tourism. It's an island that truly rewards exploration and it's not called the gourmet capital of the Caribbean for nothing! Photographer Donald Nausbaum and his wife, acclaimed food writer Madeleine Greey, are the island's biggest fans. Together, they have traveled the length and breadth of Saint Martin/Sint Maarten capturing on film and in words the very essence of this beautiful and delightfully partitioned island home.
