St. Martin

The island of St. Martin

Saint Martin is the smallest island in the world that is divided between two nations – the northern half is French, known as Saint-Martin, while the southern half is Dutch, known as Sint Maarten. For over 350 years, the Dutch and French have peacefully coexisted on this tropical island in the northeast Caribbean that covers a total area of about 37 square miles.

While both sides speak English and accept US dollars, they still maintain separate identities influenced in large part by their European origins. On the French side, you’ll find plenty of fine French restaurants, sexy day-life at the world-famous nude beaches, and cute boutiques selling unique clothing and jewelry. The Dutch side features plentiful casinos, fun beaches, and festive nightlife.

Island Information:

Capital
Dutch Side – Philipsburg, French Side – Marigot

Population
Dutch Side – est. 40,000; French Side – est. 35,000

Language
You are likely to hear a variety of languages throughout your stay, including English (widely spoken), French, Dutch, and Spanish.

Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary for each destination; it is your responsibility to verify you have the correct documents prior to travel. After 31 December 2006 a valid passport is required for travel to all the Caribbean and Mexico.

Currency
The official currency of the French side is the Euro, and on the Dutch side, it’s the Netherlands Antilles Guilder or ‘Florin’ (Naf). US dollars are accepted at the main hotels and restaurants on both sides of the island. On the French side, look out for stores and restaurants that take €- $1 to make the most of your dollar.

Shopping Hours
French side – generally 9am – 1pm and 3pm-7pm; Philipsburg – typically 9am – 6pm Mon-Sat.

Tipping
Yes, we tip in St. Maarten/St. Martin. 10-15% is the norm, though you should check the bottom of your bill as a service charge may be automatically included.

Dress
Daytime attire is pretty casual, but keep bathing suits for the beach. In the evenings, you can put on something a little special for the finer restaurants and casinos. Jackets and ties are never necessary.

Electricity
French side 220V, 60 Hz (Bring a converter if you’re coming from the US); Dutch side – 110V, 50 Hz (same as in US.)

Driving
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Phones
Country codes are required except when calling within one side of the island; see “Telecommunications” below.

St. Martin Villa Specialists
If you are interested in visiting St. Martin or St. Martin villa rentals, please search our extensive collection of villas. If you prefer to speak directly with a villa specialist, please call Caribbean Days, toll free at 1-800-942-6725.

Complementary Concierge Service
To ensure the ultimate villa rental experience, Caribbean Days offers complementary concierge service to all its guests renting villas in St. Matin. This exclusive service saves you time by allowing our concierges to arrange for car rentals, airport transfers, personal chefs, private spa treatments, reservations at the finest restaurants, yacht charters, baby sitters and much, much more. Our guest service coordinators make it their priority to ensure that your needs are met from the time you make a reservation until you return home – relaxed and rejuvenated. We call it concierge service … you’ll call it exceptional!

 

 
 

 

Featured Villa in St. Martin
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