On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to attend a luncheon in Philadelphia sponsored by Atout France and the French St. Martin Tourist Office. The event was at Zinc, a quaint French bistro near Jefferson University Hospital in Center City. The yummy menu featured crab gratin, a juicy and spicy chicken dish and a praline cream-filled pastry. I enjoyed learning more about St. Martin, an island I was aware of but certainly not well-versed in. Three languages are spoken on the island, French, Dutch and English, thanks to its unique distinction as both a French and Dutch island. The two separate sides of the island are not divided by borders or Customs protection. According to legend, in 1648 the Dutch and French decided to peacefully share the island when each side began walking from a different end of the island. The area where they met became the border. After 350 years of peaceful coexistence, a monument commemorating the agreement is the only marker of an international border. As with every island, there is plenty to do during a trip to St. Martin. For ecotourists, visit the National Nature Reserve of St. Martin, the butterfly farm or Laterie Farm. Of course, the beaches are outstanding, and there are plenty (37) to choose from. Water activities include surfing, yachting, catamaran sailing, windsurfing and much more. And the nightlife, well, it’s neverending! If you get a chance, visit St. Martin. I know I’m going to try! — Kim Krol, eFlyer editor, PR and circulation executive