Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other'. New York Times

This eBook offering is an excerpt of Lonely Planet's latest Caribbean Islands guide book and includes:

• "St Martin (Sint Maarten)" chapter

• Caribbean Islands Survival Guide, Directory, Transportation, Health, Language and Glossary chapters

• St Martin maps

This island is shared by the French and the Dutch, and has two very distinct personalities. At times they work as one, but in other instances they become a caricature of themselves by exaggerating the traits that make them unique.

This guide is the result of research by dedicated authors and local experts who immersed themselves in St Martin, finding unique experiences, and sharing practical and honest advice, so you come away informed and amazed. This guide includes up-to-date reviews of the best places to stay, eat, sights, cultural information, maps, transport tips and a few best kept secrets – all the essentials to get to the heart of St Martin.

Coverage includes:

• Understanding St Martin, History, Culture, Landscape & Wildlife, Survival Guide, Directory A-Z, Getting There & Away, Getting Around

• Sint Maarten, Philipsburg, Simpson Bay, Maho & Mullet Bay, Cupecoy Beach, St-Martin, Marigot, Terres Basses, Sandy Ground & Baie Nettlé, Friar's Bay, Pic Paradis, Grand Case, Anse Marcel, French Cul-de-Sac, Orient Beach (La Baie Orientale), Le Galion and Oyster Pond.

Lonely Planet's Caribbean Islands guide is researched and written by: Ryan Ver Berkmoes, Adam Karlin, Andrea Schulte-Peevers, Brendan Sainsbury, Kevin Raub, Tom Masters, Jean-Bernard Carillet, Brandon Presser, Paul Clammer, Michael Grosberg, Karla Zimmerman, Emily Matchar, Nate Cavalieri