Trivia in Sint Maarten

National symbols

Flag: A tricolor flag of red, white, and blue horizontal stripes with the coat of arms in the upper left corner (based on the Dutch flag)

Emblem: A shield-shaped coat of arms centered on the Philipsburg Courthouse, with a sunset, pelican, and yellow ribbon bearing the motto "Semper Pro Grediens (Always Progressing)" in the background

Trivia & facts

• The island border is 16km long with free passage without checkpoints.
• Princess Juliana International Airport's runway is right above the beach, famous as a spot to stand directly under landing aircraft.
• The island's nickname is "Friendly Island," also inscribed on license plates.
• US dollars are widely circulated, and ATMs dispense dollar cash.
• Salt mountains remaining around Great Salt Pond show history of prosperity from salt ponds.
• The Heineken-sponsored regatta is one of the world's largest warm-water yacht races.
• Native guavaberry is used for unique liqueur and Christmas cakes.
• Scooters and four-wheel buggies are mainstream for short-distance travel over bicycles.
• "King of the Zip" is one of the world's steepest ziplines.
• The island song "Benna" is a Carnival staple mixing English and patois rhythms.