Sint Maarten/Saint Martin Destination Guide
A Hint of Holland, A Dash of France - This unique island shares the cultures of two countries...to the south is the Dutch side, Sint Maarten, with its cosmopolitan capital of Phillipsburg. Find the best duty-free shops, glittering casinos and popular nightspots. To the north is the French side, St. Martin... miles of powdery beaches complement the quaint boutiques and chic cafes in the capital of Marigot.
Relaxed, yet a culinary haven for sampling all regions of French cuisine. Stay on either side, and you'll get a true taste of paradise on this gorgeous and diversified island.
Weather in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin
The island's dependable trade winds free the island from oppressive heat or prolonged leaden skies, and its temperate climate is consistently graced by the sun. The average temperature is 81° F, the average water temperature is 78° F.
Tipping in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin
Dutch Side:10 to 15% added to bill. French Side: a 5% occupancy tax is typically added.
Wedding Requirements for Sint Maarten/Saint Martin
Dutch side requires birth certificates, valid return tickets, a minimum age of 21, a residency period of 10 days, and they must request a temporary tourist permit from the Lieutenant Governor. The French side has a residency requirement of six months.
Airport Information for Sint Maarten/Saint Martin
Travel to and from Sint Maarten/Saint Martin uses the Queen Juliana Airport.
Rental Cars in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin
There are many car rental agencies on both sides of the island. Rates are about US$25 to $55 per day, and most companies offer unlimited mileage. A valid driver's license and a major credit card or cash deposit (about US$350 to $600) are required. In order to protect the livelihood of taxi drivers, cars may not be picked up at the airport; they are delivered to guests' hotels instead. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and insurance is mandatory unless you have a Gold or Platinum credit card.
