Simpson Bay, Netherlands Antilles
Museums
If you're in Simpson Bay, a great museum to visit is the St. Maarten Museum located in Philipsburg (about a 15-minute drive away). The museum showcases the history and culture of the island, including exhibits on the indigenous Arawak people, colonialism, slavery, and modern-day life on the island. Another museum option in Philipsburg is the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit, which features original movie props and exhibits from the Star Wars movies.
Food
The Netherlands Antilles is a diverse region with a variety of cuisines, but some popular and typical dishes to try in Simpson Bay are:
1. Keshi Yena: This is a traditional dish made with chicken, vegetables, and Gouda cheese that has been melted and reformed into a ball. It's then baked until crispy.
2. Johnny cakes: These are small, fried or baked bread rolls that are a staple in Antillean cuisine. They're often served with fish or meat dishes.
3. Salt fish: This is a common dish made with salted cod that has been soaked to remove the salt, then sautéed with onions, peppers, and spices.
4. Conch fritters: These are deep-fried balls made with conch meat, flour, and seasonings. They're often served as an appetizer or snack.
5. Plantains: These are a type of banana that's often cooked and served as a side dish. They can be fried, boiled, mashed or baked and are a great accompaniment to many Antillean dishes.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique cuisine you can try in Simpson Bay!
Activities
Sure! Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Simpson Bay and the surrounding area include:
1. Relaxing on the beach: There are several beautiful beaches in the area, such as Kim Sha Beach and Mullet Bay Beach, where locals like to spend time sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports.
2. Exploring the ocean: The waters around Simpson Bay are home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Local dive shops can arrange trips to nearby reefs and shipwrecks.
3. Visiting Maho Village: This lively area near Simpson Bay is known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's also famous for its close proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport, where planes fly low over the beach as they land and take off.
4. Trying local cuisine: Dutch, French, and Caribbean influences can all be found in the food of the Netherlands Antilles. Some popular local dishes to try include goat stew, conch fritters, and johnnycakes.
5. Shopping: There are plenty of opportunities to shop for souvenirs and local crafts in Simpson Bay, including at the weekly market held near the marina.
