For nearly eight decades, Seaview Beach Hotel has been part of the story of Philipsburg and the wider island of Sint Maarten / Saint Martin. From salt ponds and sugar plantations to promenade strolls and turquoise mornings, the island’s layered history continues to inspire writers, historians, and cultural storytellers from around the world.
Featured Articles
1. Salt & Sugar: The Plantation History of Sint Maarten / Saint Martin
This deeply researched piece explores the salt ponds, sugar plantations, and the powerful legacy of emancipation that shaped the island’s identity. Through historical reflection, it connects the physical landscape of the island’s ponds, hillsides, coastlines and to the human stories that define Sint Maarten / Saint Martin today
(The Royal Tour – Johnathon Berg)
It is a compelling reminder that every walk through Philipsburg rests on centuries of layered history.
Read Article Here
(The Royal Tour – Johnathon Berg)
“The island’s history lives in its salt ponds and plantation ruins — silent witnesses to centuries of change.”
A salt pond seen in front of a bay
2. Philipsburg, Marigot, and the Colonial History of Sint Maarten/Saint-Martin
(The Royal Tour – Johnathon Berg)
This walking-friendly guide highlights the colonial architecture, museums, forts, and cultural landmarks of both Philipsburg and Marigot which is many within easy walking distance of the heart of town.
The article beautifully captures what makes staying in historic Philipsburg so special: being immersed in living history rather than separated from it.
An archival photo from the Sint Maarten National Heritage Museum of the FOGA Salt Factory
“If you like staying in historic places like Philipsburg instead of pure beach resorts… I cannot recommend the Seaview Beach Hotel highly enough.”
Read Article Here
3. Sint Maarten and Saint Martin: The World’s Smallest Divided Landmass
Beach chairs at Seaview
An engaging exploration of the unique Dutch–French coexistence that defines this remarkable island. The article examines how two nations share one landmass, blending language, culture, and governance into something uniquely “Friendly Island.”
A thoughtful overview for travelers wanting to understand what makes this destination unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.
Read Article Here
4. Sint Maarten / Saint Martin: The Friendly Island
(The Royal Tour – Johnathon Berg)
This feature centers on culture, identity, and conversation which is including a meaningful discussion with the island’s Director of Culture. It reflects on what it truly means to be a “St. Martiner” and why hospitality here feels personal rather than transactional.
The setting? A quiet, rain-kissed morning in Philipsburg is a reminder that the most memorable travel moments are often the simplest.
“Sitting on white couches… two strangers sizing each other up… talking about what it means to be a St. Martiner.”
Read Article Here
5. The Beaches of Sint Maarten / Saint-Martin (and Some Great Beachside Food!)
(The Royal Tour – Johnathon Berg)
From lively stretches near the cruise port to serene island views with Saba on the horizon, this article highlights the diversity of beaches across the island — and the food and drink that make beach days even better.
Philipsburg’s beach surprises many visitors with its calm turquoise waters, soft sand, and effortless accessibility.
“You might not expect a beautiful beach here in the capital… You’d be wrong.”
Read Article Here
6. The Ultimate Guide to Sint Maarten / Saint-Martin
(The Royal Tour – Johnathon Berg)
This ultimate island guide offers an inviting starting point for anyone planning a trip to Sint Maarten / Saint Martin. Blending travel tips, cultural insight, and must-see highlights, it captures the full experience from the historic charm of Philipsburg’s streets to sweeping Caribbean views.
A standout theme is the value of staying in Philipsburg itself, where history, walkability, and beachfront beauty come together in one unforgettable setting.
“While many want a larger resort, I can’t recommend highly enough the experience of staying in Philipsburg itself, and if you do so, Seaview Beach Hotel has comfortable rooms, ridiculously friendly staff, a stunning pool, and available beach chairs and umbrellas. It was a place I felt immediately at home, and you will, too. It is also one of the most historic hotels on the island, dating back to 1948, which is rad.
Read Article Here
For us, hospitality has always been about more than rooms and amenities. It’s about being part of the fabric of Philipsburg.
It’s past, present, and future.
We’re grateful to the writers who continue to tell the story of this remarkable island, and we invite you to experience it for yourself.