Sint Maarten

Sint Maarten demonstrates post-hurricane reconstruction challenges in a dual-nationality island. This Dutch constituent country shares the island with French Saint-Martin, with open borders between the territories. Hurricane Irma in 2017 devastated both sides, destroying tourism infrastructure that generates most economic activity. Reconstruction has proceeded unevenly, with some properties rebuilt while others remain damaged.

Princess Juliana International Airport, famous for its beach-adjacent approach path, has been substantially repaired and handles most tourist arrivals. The cruise port at Philipsburg receives day-trippers, while resort areas attract stayover visitors. The small territory of approximately 40,000 residents depends almost entirely on tourism and related services.

The divided island creates unusual dynamics: tourists move freely between French and Dutch sides, duty-free shopping attracts cruise passengers, and the airport serves both territories. Post-Irma aid and reconstruction revealed governance challenges, with Dutch supervision over Sint Maarten's financial management. The territory's future depends on completing reconstruction and maintaining competitiveness against other Caribbean destinations.