Sint Maarten/St. Martin

Fort Amsterdam - The Dutch came to the Caribbean originally in their quest for salt, which was a very valuable commodity in the 1600s. Originally a Spanish fort and rebuilt by the Dutch in 1631, for the first Dutch fort in the Caribbean. The English Occupied Sint Maarten/Saint Martin from 1801-1816. The cannons from their occupation are on display, that is why the visitor will notice on one of the cannons King George's coat-of-arms. From the fort, a visitor can capture a commanding view of the harbor. / Frontstreet 7, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, Netherlands Antilles / phone 599-54 24917

Sint Maarten Museum - Reflects the history and culture of the island and its people. Displays and exhibitions that depict the history and culture of this island that is blessed with a rich historical, natural and geographical heritage. Features displays from pre-Columbian era and artifacts from the Arawak settlersThe Museum Shop offers a variety of local books, maps, artwork, and souvenirs. The friendly volunteers are at your disposal for questions and information on this unique Bi-National Island and its people. There is a $1 admission charged, with students and children admitted free. The Museum Shop does not charge an admission. The Museum is operated by St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation . / Frontstreet 119, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, Netherlands Antilles / phone 599-54 24917

Philipsburg's Courthouse - Located in the middle of Philipsburg's Wathey Square, which is also home to Philipsburgs more attractive colonial buildings. In the past the courthouse has also been used as a post office, a jail, town hall and a fire station. Built in 1793, it originally was the home of the founder of Philipsburg, Commander John Philips, a Scottish pioneer

Fort Marigot - Built in 1789, and originally known as Fort St. Louis for France's King Louis XVI, this French military outpost was constructed to protect the French settlers from foreign invasions. It was renamed Ft. Marigot following the French Revolution. It has been recently restored. To reach the fort, go to Marigot's waterfront tourist information booth on Rue de la Republique and follow the footpath to the fort.The view of Marigot Harbor is panoramic and worth the short uphill trek.

St. Martin Museum, "On The Trail Of The Arawaks" - Located on the south side of Marigot next to the Marina Port la Royale. This museum chronicles the history and culture of the French settlers. There have been some rescent excavations by the Hope Estate Archaeological Society on the island which have netted some pre-Colombian treasures. A sampling of the displays includes a reproduction of 1500 year old burial mound that was unearthed in 1994, articacts that date back to 1800 b.c., and an exhibit of a colonial era plantation. There are also some early photos which mark the progress of the island's development. Open daily, and there is no admission charged.

Fort Willem - From 1801 to 1848, Fort Willem was a military outpost for the Dutch, French and British powers. During that time its control changed hands 16 times, due to the political climate of the times. Although little remains of the original structure the commanding view of Philipsburg and the nearby islands. Access is best gained via the road opposite the entrance to Great Bay Beach Hotel. Owing to the dangerous incline, it is recommended that you visit this site on foot.

St. Barthélemy

Inter Oceans Museum - Established by Ingénu Magras, in Corossol, to showcase the wondrous world of seashells from all over the world. there are thousands of pieces on display, including 1600 species from the Caribbean Region. Open every day except Monday from 9 am to 5 pm (Closed from 12:30 pm until 2:00 pm.) Admission 20 French Francs / Corossol, St. Barthélemy, FWI / phone (0590) 27 62 97

Saint Barthélemy Municipal Museum & Library (AKA The Wall House Museum) - The museum is located at La Pointe on Gustavia Harbor, and features a recently restored historic building dating from the Swedish period - 1785 to 1878. Often called The Wall House Museum because it's former tenant was The Wall House Warehouse. The building is on Rue Schoelcher at the farthest point of La Pointe. The front is marked by cannons and Swedish and French flags. The inner building was badly damaged by the 1852 fire but, given the sturdy construction, the façade remained intact. Both the museum and library showcase the island's roots. There are texts, historical engravings and maps that trace the island from the times of Columbus to the Knights of Malta, Montbars the Exterminator and the Swedes. Documents, watercolors, and portraits abound. It's compact but very interesting. Open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm to 6 pm. Saturdays from 9 am to 11 am. Closed Sunday. Small fee. / Rue Schoelcher, Gustavia, 97133 Saint-Barthélemy, FWI / phone (0590) 27 89 07

Fort Gustav - This 17th century military outpost was named for the Swedish king Gustav. Situated on the way out of Gustavia. The view is panoramic of the neighboring islands, although, not much remains of the original fort.

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