Taking a cruise on a luxury liner has never been more popular, as passenger numbers continue to rebound spectacularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
A cruise is after all a great way to see multiple destinations with the minimum of effort, as well as an opportunity to make friends with a host of new people.
Last year, cruise ships transported a whopping 31.7 million passengers, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
This represented a seven percent increase on the previous record set in 2019, shortly before the onset of the coronavirus outbreak.
One of the most popular destinations for cruise line travellers appears to be the Caribbean, and one island in particular is attracting more than its fair share of visitors.
Sint Maarten is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Dutch Caribbean .
The northern part of the island lies within the French overseas territory of Saint Martin.
The island has a population of just over 58,000 people and boasts stunning lagoons and beaches.
Its capital, Philipsburg, is a throwback in time with its cobblestone streets and colourful, colonial-style buildings lining its Front Street shopping area.
Last year, the island welcomed more than 1.3 million tourists from cruise ships, meaning locals were outnumbered 22:1.
The island has much to offer the visitor with its stunning natural landscapes of rolling emerald hills and sparkling sandy shores, as well as its unique cuisine and culture.
Sint Maarten has acquired the reputation of being the culinary capital of the Caribbean, combining Dutch and French with local flavours to create an innovative cuisine.
Restaurants, cafes and bars reflect the cultural tastes of the settlers who have come to the island from all over the world.
Innovative chefs as well are drawn to this regional gourmet capital, where they create fusion cuisines.
A great time to visit Sint Maarten is in April when the island Carnival is in full swing.
The Sint Maarten Carnival is known as one of the most vibrant in the region, with many Caribbean celebrities taking part in its concerts and parades with its delightful display of dazzling colourful costumes.
