We are going on a cruise lasting 106 days, and hopefully we will see quite a bit of the world in the process!!!We are looking forward to sharing a few moments with you



Monday, 16 April 2012

St Maarten


Sunday the 15th of April 2012-04-15
A couple of day’s voyage has brought us to St Maarten and to the port of Phillipsburg. Again it is quite hot but there is a high wind which is believed to be part of the bad weather that USA is experiencing at the moment; however it has not spoiled in any way the enjoyment of the stay here. It’s a big Cruise terminal and there are 2 other ships in, one from Holland America line and one of the Costas.
This morning we were on a trip by bus around the Island which is in 2 separate parts. One side is part of Holland and the other is under French jurisdiction. As you pass over the border it is quite obvious the difference there is between the two communities both in the people and the environment. If one is truthful the French side does appear to be much better cared for. People making phone calls from one side to the other have to pay international tariffs!!!
We were here before about 9 years ago and Phillipsburg has changed so much. Whereas it used to be a walk to anywhere of considerable bumps and unkempt pavements and a town centre much the same, today there is a new development that takes in the town but has brought a whole new life to the sea front with a promenade, restaurants and cafes that look out over a wonderful beach overlooking the Cruise terminal. It is now a comfortable walk and very disability friendly.
Today has been great day, very enjoyable, manageable heat and colourful because of the environment and the friendly people.
Fd


more pictures to follow

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