Experiential Journeys in St. Maarten

By AfroLuxe Guides

June 22^nd, 2024

Spend the Day at Sea

Ladies, gather around as I unfold an exhilarating aquatic adventure that awaits us in the enchanting landscape of St. Maarten. Picture this: we board the stunning Santino, a motor boat that promises to whisk us away to the hidden gems of Pinel, Tintamarre, and Creole Rock. This is not just a boat ride, my dear friends. It's a luxurious escapade into the heart of the Caribbean, a journey that's as breathtaking as the destination itself.

As we set sail from the home base of Aquamania Adventures, we're immediately embraced by the beauty of the Caribbean. The wind caresses our hair and the scent of the sea fills our lungs. We're not just spectators on this journey, we're part of it, immersed in the captivating allure of the coastline that unfolds before us.

The Santino, our vessel for this adventure, is no ordinary boat. It's a symbol of luxury and comfort, designed to provide a smooth ride as we explore the treasures of the islands. The boat offers plenty of shade, protecting us from the tropical sun while still allowing us to bask in its warmth. The crew, with their expert knowledge of the island’s marine life, beaches, and landscapes, are more than just guides - they're our companions on this exhilarating journey.

As we speed along the coastline, taking in the breathtaking views of the turquoise sea and the lush landscapes, we can't help but marvel at the beauty of nature. The sight of the sun-dappled water, the feel of the wind against our skin, the sound of the waves lapping against the boat - it's a sensory feast that makes us feel alive and free.

Our first stop is Pinel, a hidden gem that promises to captivate us with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Then, we journey to Tintamarre, an island teeming with diverse marine life and breathtaking landscapes. Finally, we visit Creole Rock, where we get to witness the vibrant hues of the coral reef and the dazzling array of its inhabitants.

This adventure, ladies, is not just about the destinations we visit. It's about the journey, the shared experiences, the stories we create along the way. It's about the thrill of discovery, the joy of exploration, and the bonds we strengthen as we share this unforgettable experience.

So, ready your adventurous spirit, put on that fabulous bathing suit, and join me as we embark on this journey of discovery. Let's create memories that we'll cherish forever, on the stunning Santino, amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean. After all, we are women of the world, explorers at heart, and the sea is calling us.

Explore the Spirit of SXM Sculpture Park Underwater Museum

Prepare yourselves for an extraordinary adventure, the likes of which you've never experienced before. Join me, into the mesmerizing depths of Little Bay, St. Maarten, to uncover a treasure that will leave us absolutely spellbound - The Spirit of SXM Sculpture Park, an underwater museum that's the first of its kind on the island.

Imagine this, my dear sisters - we're snorkeling in the clear blue waters of Little Bay, surrounded by a world of vibrant marine life. As we swim deeper, we come upon an extraordinary sight - an underwater gallery featuring 300 sculptures. Our hearts flutter with excitement as we explore this submerged wonderland, each sculpture revealing a different aspect of the island's rich history and culture.

The Spirit of SXM Sculpture Park is more than just an art exhibit; it's a testament to the beauty of St. Maarten and its commitment to preserving its marine ecosystems. This unique project, developed by the UK-based company Deep Blue Sea, is a $1.2 million investment in both cultural preservation and environmental conservation. Each sculpture serves as an artificial reef, attracting a myriad of marine life and providing a safe haven for them to thrive.

Beloveds, the underwater museum is a truly immersive experience that connects us with the island's heritage in a way we've never experienced before. As we explore the sculptures, we're not just observers; we're participants in a narrative that's as rich and diverse as the island itself. Each sculpture tells a story, immersing us in the island's history, its struggles and triumphs, its culture and traditions.

But the underwater museum isn't just about the past; it's about the present, too. It's a celebration of St. Maarten's vibrant community, a tribute to the island's resilience and spirit. As we swim among the sculptures, we're reminded of the strength and unity of the island's people, their commitment to preserving their heritage, and their love for their homeland.

The Spirit of SXM Sculpture Park is a journey not just into the depths of the sea, but into the heart of St. Maarten. It's an invitation to explore, to discover, and to connect with the island in a way that's both profound and personal. This isn't just an adventure; it's a journey of discovery, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the power of art and nature.

So, grab your snorkels and join me in experiencing one of St. Maarten’s most incredible additions. Let's dive into an adventure that promises to be as captivating as the underwater wonders we are about to explore. Here's to making waves and creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Beer Tasting & Bespoke Tours

Indulge in a day of discovery as we explore the unique flavors of St. Maarten. Our journey takes us to the heart of the island, to a place where craftsmanship meets passion and tradition - the SXM Brewery. As the largest brewery on this beautiful island, it stands as a testament to the art of brewing and the rich culture of St. Maarten.

As we step into the SXM Brewery, we're immediately greeted by the intoxicating aroma of brewing beer, a hint of the sensory delights that await us. This is not just a brewery, my dear friends. It's a place where tradition is honored, where each brew tells a story - a story of the island's history, its people, and their love for good beer.

The folks at SXM Brewery are passionate about their craft. They are storytellers, using their skills and knowledge to create beers that are not just delicious, but also embody the spirit of St. Maarten. As we tour the brewery, we'll get a chance to learn about the company's story, their brewing process, and the secret behind their unique flavors. This is more than just a tour; it's an opportunity to gain insight into the intricate art of brewing, to appreciate the time and effort that goes into each batch.

But the true highlight of our visit, of course, is the beer tasting. The SXM Brewery prides itself on creating specialty flavors that are only available onsite. These exclusive brews are a celebration of the island's unique character, embodying its vibrant culture and tropical charm. As we sample these unique flavors, we're not just tasting beer - we are experiencing the essence of St. Maarten, one sip at a time.

So, let's raise our glasses to this unique adventure, to the flavors of St. Maarten, and to the bonds of sisterhood that bring us together. Because, ladies, we are not just women - we are adventurers, explorers, connoisseurs of fine experiences. And as we stand in the heart of the SXM Brewery, savoring the taste of their exquisite beers, we are not just tasting - we are living.

Our journey to the SXM Brewery is more than just a day trip; it's an exploration of the flavors and stories that make St. Maarten unique. So, let's embrace this adventure with open hearts and curious minds, ready to discover, learn, and savor every moment. Because we, my dear friends, are not just tourists - we are travelers, explorers of life's rich tapestry, and we deserve nothing but the finest experiences that this beautiful island has to offer.

Watch the Planes Come In

Picture this: warm sand between your toes, a gentle sea breeze tousling your hair, the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore, and above you, planes descending so close you can almost touch them. Welcome to the world's most thrilling airport landing, right here at Maho Beach in beautiful St. Maarten.

This isn’t your everyday beach visit. Maho Beach, ladies, is a unique destination that combines beachside relaxation with a dash of thrill and excitement. It's the place to be if you're looking for an experience that's out of the ordinary. The beach is located at the end of the runway of Princess Juliana International Airport, one of the world's most famous airports for plane spotting. As we lounge on the beach, we can see airplanes of all sizes descend for landing, so close overhead that we can see the details of their underbellies.

Now, I know what you're thinking. Airplanes and beaches? But believe me, there is something incredibly thrilling about watching these massive machines take off and land so close to you. It's a sight that you can't quite appreciate until you've seen it for yourself. And the best part? You can enjoy this unique spectacle while relaxing on a gorgeous Caribbean beach.

But, beloveds, Maho Beach isn't just about airplane spotting. It's a beautiful beach in its own right, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for a refreshing dip. You can spend the day sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing under the shade of a palm tree with a good book.

And when you've had your fill of sun and sand, retreat to the shade of the beach bar. Here, you can sip on a refreshing cocktail, indulge in some delicious local cuisine, and chat with fellow beachgoers. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.

So, ladies, are you ready to experience the thrill of Maho Beach? Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a beach lover, or just someone looking for a unique experience, Maho Beach is the place to be. Come, let's embark on this thrilling journey together. To Maho Beach, where the sky meets the sea in the most exciting way possible.

Paint Titah Dolls

I want to share with you an experience that is truly close to my heart. It's not just an activity, but a journey into the past, a chance to connect with the history and heritage of St. Maarten. It's about embracing and cherishing the beautiful stories of "days of times long ago" through a unique, interactive art experience.

Picture this - you and I, under the guidance of the talented artisans of "Our Creations St. Maarten Arts & Crafts Foundation", breathing life into the sculptures of the Titah Frock Dolls. These aren't just ordinary dolls, my dear friends. They are symbols of our shared heritage, embodying the rich history and vibrant culture of St. Maarten. As we paint these sculptures, we are not just creating art, but also preserving and participating in the storytelling of our shared past.

Can you feel the thrill? Each brush stroke we apply, each color we choose, is a tribute to the stories of our ancestors. It's a celebration of our history, our identity, and our heritage. Every detail we add to the Titah Frock Dolls brings us closer to understanding and appreciating the depth and richness of St. Maarten's past.

But that's not all. This experience also offers us an opportunity to discover other locally handmade treasures. As we navigate through this journey, we'll come across a myriad of handcrafted pieces, each with a story to tell, each bearing the mark of the dedicated artisans who have poured their heart and soul into creating them. From intricately woven baskets to delicate pottery, these treasures are a testament to the skill and creativity of the local craftspeople.

Ladies, this is more than just an art activity. It's a celebration of our shared heritage, a chance to engage with history in a hands-on, interactive manner. It's about fostering a deeper connection with the land we love and the stories that define us. So, I invite you to join me in this unique, immersive experience. Let's together paint the sculptures of the Titah Frock Dolls, listen to the stories of "days of times long ago", and in doing so, weave our own tales of camaraderie and shared experiences. After all, it's through these shared experiences that we create memories that last a lifetime.

Explore the World’s Steepest Zip Line ~ The Flying Dutchman

I've got an adventure to share that'll get your adrenaline pumping and leave you in awe of the world's natural beauty. Picture this: a thrilling descent on the world's steepest zipline, The Flying Dutchman, with breathtaking views of St. Maarten and beyond. Are you in? I thought so!

Our journey begins with an ascent to the top of one of the island's highest peaks. We'll be transported via a comfortable chairlift, leaving us free to sit back, relax, and take in the magnificent views. As we rise above the landscape, we'll be treated to vistas that stretch all the way to Anguilla and beyond. It's a sight to behold, ladies. The sparkling ocean, the lush greenery, the vast blue sky - it's nothing short of magical.

Once we reach the top, we'll be greeted by the main event: The Flying Dutchman. This isn't your average zipline, my dear friends. This is the world's steepest zipline, offering an exhilarating ride that's both thrilling and awe-inspiring. But before you let the 'world's steepest' part scare you off, remember this - we're strong, fearless women who aren't afraid to embrace a little adventure!

As we strap ourselves in, the anticipation builds. There's a moment of silence, a collective breath-holding, and then we're off! As we fly down the zipline, we'll be treated to panoramic views of the island below. The wind will whip through our hair, the landscape will blur past, and for those few minutes, we'll be free. It's an experience that's both thrilling and liberating, a reminder of our strength and our ability to conquer any challenge that comes our way.

But the adventure doesn't end when the zipline does. After our descent, we can take some time to explore the surrounding area, perhaps take a few photos to remember the day by, and of course, share our experiences with each other. After all, what's an adventure without some good old-fashioned girl talk?

So, ladies, are you ready for the thrill ride of a lifetime? The Flying Dutchman is calling our names, promising a unique and exhilarating experience that we won't soon forget. Let's embrace the adventure, lean into the thrill, and remember - we're in this together, every heart-stopping, awe-inspiring moment of it. Let's go, ladies. The world's steepest zipline awaits us!

Footnotes

Images taken during SXM FAM 2024, with much thanks and love to the St Maarten Tourism Board, JME DMC, JW Marriot, Sonesta, and my beloved FAM sisters who are the most amazing travel advisors I’ve ever come across!