St. Maarten: The Friendly Island

Overview

St. Maarten (SXM) is a stunning tropical island in the Caribbean, famous for its unique split personality, with the northern part being French (Saint Martin) and the southern part Dutch (Sint Maarten). This vibrant destination is a cultural melting pot, offering beautiful beaches, diverse cuisines, and a mix of thrilling adventures and peaceful relaxation. Visitors can experience both sides of this "dual-nation" island with ease, soaking in its rich history and island charm.

Location

• Region: Caribbean
• Coordinates: 18.0425° N, 63.0548° W
• Size: 37 square miles (87 square kilometers), with 60% French and 40% Dutch territories.

Top Attractions

1. Maho Beach: Famous for its dramatic views of planes landing just above beachgoers at Princess Juliana International Airport.
   
2. Orient Bay, Saint Martin: A popular beach on the French side known for its powdery white sand and lively bars and restaurants.
   
3. Philipsburg: The capital of the Dutch side, home to Great Bay Beach, colorful shops, and duty-free shopping along the boardwalk.
   
4. Loterie Farm: A hidden oasis offering eco-friendly adventures like ziplining, hiking, and lounging by a pool in the midst of nature.
   
5. Fort Louis: A historic site overlooking the French capital of Marigot, offering panoramic views of the bay and the island.

Activities

• Water Sports: Ideal for snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, and sailing, with calm, turquoise waters surrounding the island.
  
• Hiking: For nature lovers, trails like Pic Paradis offer breathtaking views of St. Maarten's lush landscape.
  
• Cuisine: A fusion of French, Creole, and Caribbean flavors, with seafood, conch, and Johnny cakes among local favorites. Both sides of the island boast excellent restaurants and beachfront cafes.

Culture & Language

St. Maarten/St. Martin is home to residents from over 140 nationalities, making it a truly multicultural destination. The official language of St. Maarten is Dutch, while French is spoken on St. Martin. Locally, Creole and Papiamento are also part of the linguistic tapestry. The most widely spoken languages are English, French, Dutch, and Spanish, with English being prevalent across the island. Tourist services are typically staffed by bilingual personnel, and navigating the island is easy with street signs in English on the Dutch side.

Currency

• Dutch side (Sint Maarten): Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG)
• French side (Saint Martin): Euro (€)
• US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere on both sides.

Banks/Credit Cards

Both sides of the island are well-serviced with banks and ATMs. On the Dutch side, banks generally operate from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and offer 24-hour ATM services for Cirrus, MasterCard, and Visa cardholders. On the French side, banking hours vary between institutions, and numerous currency exchange locations are available throughout the day.

Major credit cards, including American Express, MasterCard, and Visa, are widely accepted. However, it’s advisable to check with individual merchants, as some may not accept credit cards. U.S. dollar traveler’s checks are also accepted across the island with valid identification.

St. Maarten Weather

• Average temperature: 79°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C) year-round, with pleasant tropical weather. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April.

Getting There

• By Air: Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) serves as a major hub for direct flights from North America and Europe.
  
• By Sea: Many Caribbean cruise itineraries include St. Maarten as a popular port of call.

Driving & Car Rentals

Driving is done on the right side of the road, similar to the USA, Canada, and many European countries. The main roads that traverse the island are paved, however, you may encounter many unpaved roads as you venture off the beaten path. A vehicle is required for you to get around the island. It is recommended that you rent a vehicle that has 4-wheel drive, as the island is very mountainous.

Vehicle rentals should be booked ideally a month or more before your visit since many book out quickly. Most rental car agencies are located conveniently near the airport on Airport Rd. There is usually a free shuttle that will meet you at the airport upon your exit, ready to transfer you to the rental agency. The shuttle will also drop you off at the airport after you return the vehicle to their lot at the end of your holiday.

Many global agencies such as AVIS, Budget, Alamo, Thrifty, Enterprise, and Sixt cater to the island. There are also some notable local agencies such as Sax Car Rental.

Fun Fact about St. Maarten

St. Maarten is the smallest landmass in the world to be shared by two countries, making it a unique destination where visitors can experience two different cultures, languages, and lifestyles in one trip.

Why Visit?

From its world-renowned beaches to its vibrant culinary scene, St. Maarten offers a little bit of everything. Whether you're craving adventure, a relaxed escape, or a taste of the island's rich culture, this tropical paradise is a top choice for travelers from around the world.

Stay at Amor de Mer Villa

For a truly unforgettable experience in St. Maarten, enjoy luxury and comfort at Amor de Mer Villa. Situated on a pristine stretch of oceanfront, this exclusive villa offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, a private pool, and all the amenities you need for a peaceful and luxurious stay. Whether you're lounging by the pool, exploring the island, or dining on fresh local cuisine, Amor de Mer Villa is the perfect base for your Caribbean adventure. Relax, unwind, and let the magic of Sint Maarten (SXM) surround you! Check availability!