Santo Domingo
The Dominican in St Maarten...

Here on St Maarten, the latino community, has made quite a forceful stance enabling them to be visible in every aspect of day to day life.

The complex diversity of culture today rests in the hands of the evolution of the immigration process.

Earlier in the century St Maarten natives left the Island in search of a better living and ventured off to various destinations throughout the Caribbean those of which include Santo Domingo.

St Maarten's history like any other hardly lacks diversity. Cultural influences from around the world manifest their presence and have woven themselves into the fabric of every day life on the Island.

With its more that forty different nationalities, there are a few that stand out more than others.

In fact, needless to say though that it has been a topic of discussion about who qualifies to be a true St Maartener. This is quite similar to that of the United States.

The Spanish influences such as their music and cuisine undoubtedly has its place on the Island due to the simple truth that numerous families in this community are in one way or another related to each other and possess a piece of the Dominican heritage. This is directly attributed to the above mentioned migration activity.

In 1955 St Maarten enjoyed the birth of the tourism industry as the salt trade diminished and people started to return home bringing their new relationships with outsiders to the forefront.

Since then the Industry has enjoyed an aggressive growth rate that is still active today attracting many Dominicanos to the Island.

Santo Domingo people love to party. This is an understatement. I think it's in their blood. From what I've noticed, they enjoy a good night out. Sunday is their main day to do so.

Many snacks, provision stands and small clubs spring up ever so often. From their interiors one can hear the belting sounds of their Bachata music. They also love the sound of Meringue and salsa.

Where ever the Hispaniola natives gather, one might be incliened to wonder if there is a fight or similar. In fact its just their style of loud chatter during their social events. The scene is not quite set at a Dominican party without a Presidente beer or a glass or Brugal rum, although I have seen quite some natives enjoy a good ice cold Coors Lite beer.

A perfect lunch would include Cassava, fried green plantains and a meat sauce of your choice. I mean my choice :-). White rice and rice and peas are always present. My favorite is the excellent peas' sauce in which they specialise.

The main meal of the day is generally served at midday. A very popular dish is called La bandera which consists of white rice red beans and any type of stewed meat accompanied by salad and fried plantains.

Another favorite dish is Sancocho. This is a stew made from meat and veggies.

These joyful people in general are very friendly and hospitable. I always have a fantastic time around them. Their energetic spitits facilitates a fascinating ambiance that makes even the pescimistic happy.