Sint Maarten (Dutch part)
Sint Maarten (Dutch part)
- Capital
- Philipsburg
- Population
- 40,812
- Region
- Americas
- Languages
- Dutch, English
Princess Juliana International Airport is world-famous for its runway, which begins just feet away from a popular public beach. Tourists often gather on the sand to experience the powerful jet blast of arriving aircraft flying at incredibly low altitudes. This unique proximity allows for spectacular photography and has made the island a bucket-list destination for aviation enthusiasts globally.
Currency
The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, identified by the ISO code ANG. Although it has been pegged to the US dollar since 1971, the currency is a historical carryover from the era of the Netherlands Antilles and remains in use despite the dissolution of that political entity in 2010.
Flag symbolism
The horizontal red stripe represents the courage and resilience of the people, while the white stripe signifies peace and unwavering friendliness. The blue stripe honors the surrounding Caribbean Sea and the clear tropical skies that define the landscape. A white triangle at the hoist contains the coat of arms, symbolizing the territory's distinct political identity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Emblem history
The coat of arms depicts a silver shield with the orange-roofed courthouse building, which stands as a historic landmark in the capital of Philipsburg. Above the shield, a yellow sage flower is showcased, representing the local flora, while a majestic brown pelican is perched at the very top. A golden scroll beneath the shield features the Latin motto 'Semper Progrediens,' which translates to 'Always Progressing' and reflects the community's forward-looking spirit.