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Itinerary details

Day 1

Arrival & initial exploration

Arrive in Saint-Martin/Sint-Maarten and receive your arrival gift bag. Then take a leisurely stroll around Philipsburg (Dutch side) or Marigot (French side) to get acquainted with the island. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a beachfront restaurant in the district of Simpson Bay.

Day 2

Local Market Tour & Cooking Class

→ Visit Marigot Market to explore fresh produce, spices, and meet with local farmers and vendors with Island Friend during a cultural food tour. → Participate in a cooking class with Soualiga Women Association, learning to prepare traditional dishes such as Johnny Cakes or Guavaberry Tart. → Dine at a restaurant of your choice in Orient Bay Village

Day 3

Food Business Insights

→ Enjoy a local breakfast at Chez Lainez! → Meet with Laurina, manager of St.Martin’s Business Incubator and get a free visit of the space. → Pitch at Van Dorp Spaces! Have a set up organized by the owners to pitch your project/expertise in front of 3+ members. → Volunteer at the Freegan Food where supermarkets, manufacturers, wholesalers, companies or people can donate their 'waste' products. → Dinner in Philipsburg, offering a blend of Caribbean and international cuisine.

Day 4

Culinary Fusion Exploration

→ Explore the fusion of French and Dutch culinary influences in local bakeries and cafés with a culinary tour with Seagrape Tour. → Visit Tijon Parfumerie in Grand Case for a perfume-making workshop, gaining insight into the connection between scents and flavors. → Savor a delicious local dinner at Grand Case’s lolos

Day 5

Food & Beverage Networking

→ Take a local and traditional breakfast and taste bush tea at Les Délices Créoles, one the eldest restaurants in Marigot. → Visit the Guavaberry Colombier Tradition House and Meet the owners Mrs & Mr MACCOW : Gain a better understanding of how the traditional Guavaberry liqueur, jam and spice are made. Through September to December, you’ll be able to pick Guavaberries! → Enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant in Grand Case! Many to choose from or if it is a Tuesday in February, March or April, you can discover and enjoy all the delicious dishes, the food trucks and restaurants for Grand Case Tuesday.

Day 6

Agricultural Tour & Tasting

→ Have breakfast at the traditional bakery Carl’s and Son and learn about the local pastries Meet Emmanuel Gimenez - Owner of the Golden Groove Farm - Local farm located in the green district of Colombier. 120 year old Historical landmark family owned and operated natural multicultural and livestock farm in the heart and soul of Colombier. Visit and plant locals fruits and vegetables at the Rasta Farm in Bellevue → From the garden straight to the plate with Aux Métissés, meet Olivier the head chef behind “Aux Métissés”! He will delight your taste buds with mixing traditional recipes straight from his garden. → Dinner in Grand Case at the restaurant of your choice

Day 7

Seafood Specialties

→ On a wednesday, thursday or saturday morning from 6, visit the local fish market in Marigot to understand the seafood supply chain and talk with fishermen. Meet Spicy Milo, the local-known spice lady. → Grab lunch at a lolo’s in Marigot and experience a creole red snapper dish. → Dine in Grand Case in a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood dishes.

Day 8

Beachside Culinary Experience

→ Spend the morning at Orient Bay Beach, enjoying the beach bars and sampling snacks. → Dutch Blonde Beer Brewery Tour. The brewery has state-of-the-art technology, and you can witness the process for all five beers. → Beachside dinner in Orient Bay, offering a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine.

Day 9

Wine & Dine

→ Wine tasting at La Cave du Vin in Marigot, exploring French and international wines available on the island. → You can enjoy the beautiful and bright beach of Red Bay or see the beautiful 360° view of the island if you climb the Fort Louis → Cocktail class with Mixologist Thomas. Mixologist Thomas crafts a spirited experience, teaching the art of mixology with flair and finesse.

Day 10

Reflection & Departure

→ Taste a delicious vegan and vegetarian breakfast at the renowned Top Carrot. → Reflect on your culinary journey and prepare for departure. → Depart from Saint-Martin/Sint-Maarten.

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About your destination

In a nutshell

Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten, a unique dual-nation island, offers an exceptional blend of European charm and Caribbean allure. This tropical paradise combines rich cultural diversity, thriving economic sectors, and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for business immersions and leisure pursuits. Whether you're exploring investment opportunities, delving into its fascinating history, or basking on its world-renowned beaches, Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten welcomes you to experience the best of both worlds in one captivating island.

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Economic Perspective

The island's economy is primarily driven by tourism, with a growing focus on international business and offshore financial services. The Dutch side, Sint Maarten, is known for its duty-free shopping and vibrant casino industry, while the French side, Saint-Martin, offers a more laid-back atmosphere with gourmet dining and luxury boutiques. Both sides benefit from a strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly policies, creating a favorable environment for investment and entrepreneurship.

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Historical Perspective

Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten boasts a rich history shaped by indigenous Arawak people, European colonization, and African heritage. The island's unique status as the smallest landmass in the world shared by two sovereign states (France and the Netherlands) dates back to the 1648 Treaty of Concordia. This diverse heritage is reflected in the island's architecture, languages, and cultural practices, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into its complex past and vibrant present.

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Climate Change Perspective

As a small island nation, Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten faces significant challenges from climate change, including rising sea levels, increased hurricane intensity, and coral reef degradation. Both the French and Dutch governments have implemented measures to enhance resilience and promote sustainable development. These efforts include coastal protection initiatives, renewable energy projects, and eco-tourism programs aimed at preserving the island's natural beauty while adapting to environmental changes.

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Business Opportunities

Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten presents diverse business opportunities across various sectors. The tourism and hospitality industry remains a cornerstone of the economy, with potential for growth in eco-tourism and luxury travel. The island's strategic location makes it attractive for logistics and distribution businesses serving the Caribbean region. Additionally, there's growing potential in sectors such as renewable energy, digital services, and creative industries. Both sides of the island offer incentives for foreign investment and support for small businesses and startups.

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Tourism Perspective

Renowned for its 37 pristine beaches, including the famous Orient Bay and Maho Beach, Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten is a premier Caribbean destination. The island offers a unique blend of French and Dutch cultures, reflected in its cuisine, architecture, and lifestyle. Visitors can enjoy duty-free shopping in Philipsburg, indulge in water sports, explore nature reserves, and experience the vibrant nightlife and casino scene. From luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels, the island caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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