Sint Maarten is 34 km2 (13 sq mi).
The terrain is generally hilly, with the highest peak being Mount Flagstaff at 383m. The area to the west around the airport is flatter, and contains the Dutch section of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. The Great Salt Pond lies to north of Philipsburg. Several small islands lie off the coast, notably Cow and Calf, Hen and Chicks, Molly Beday, Pelikan Key, and Guana Key of Pelican. Little Key lies in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.
Economy:
Sint Maarten, along with Curaçao, uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder as its currency. The economy is heavily dependent on tourism, either from long-stays or day-trippers from the many cruise lines that dock in the Philipsburg Harbour; around 80% of the workforce is employed in this sector. Some limited agriculture occurs, however most food is imported.
Hurricane Irma severely affected the economy in 2017. In a 2019 report, it was revealed that the island’s GDP had dropped by 4.7%, with an increase in inflation. This drastic hit to the economy was due to lessened tourism, real estate, trade, and business activities.
Transportation:
Sint Maarten is served by Princess Juliana International Airport, serving destinations across the Caribbean, North America and France and the Netherlands.
It is well known for its very low final approach landings close to a popular beach at the end of the runway. Winair (Windward Islands Airways) has its headquarters on the grounds of the airport.
Flag of Sint Maarten:
The flag of Sint Maarten is the national flag of Sint Maarten. The flag, designed by 17 year old Roselle Richardson, was officially adopted on 13 June 1985.
The design features a horizontal bi-colour of red and blue with the coat of arms of Sint Maarten on a white chevron, thus incorporating the colors of the Dutch flag. The red symbolizes solidarity and courage, the blue peace and assurance of pardon, and the white purity and faith.