Is St. Maarten expensive to visit?
Is St. Maarten expensive to visit? A famous jet-set getaway, Sint Maarten is known as one of the more expensive islands in the Caribbean. Gary Meenaghan proves it's possible for a family to stay, and enjoy, for a month without breaking the bank.
Can I use US dollars in St. Maarten?
The official local currency is the Antillean guilder (ANG) and has been fixed to the US Dollar at approximately 1.80 ANG to 1USD for over 35 years. The US Dollar is accepted everywhere on the island. Local currency and US Dollar ATM machines (Maestro/Cirrus) are situated throughout the island.
What is the best time of year to go to St. Maarten?
The dry season, from December to April, is the most pleasant. This is also the peak season for tourists who come to enjoy the agreeable weather and summer temperatures. The sunshine is almost constant during this period, with hardly any rain.
Are you supposed to tip in St. Martin?
Tipping in restaurants on French St-Martin Legally, the price posted on the menu includes service and there is no obligation to pay more. Most European just round up and leave a few Euro, pretty much what an American guest would pay on top of the customary 15% in the US, in order to show extra satisfaction.
Do I need a Covid test to fly to St Martin?
No. As of August 1, 2022, Saint Martin no longer has COVID entry requirements for any travelers. There are NO testing or vaccine requirements. Effective Nov 01st, 2022 the Electronics Health Authorization System (EHAS) Application is no longer required.
Which side is better to stay on in St. Martin?
VERDICT: If you want more of a European feel, stay on the French side. If you want more of an Americanized feel, stay on the Dutch side. FYI, the cruise ships and the airport are located on the Dutch side.
What is the legal drinking age in St. Maarten?
The legal drinking age on St. Maarten/St. Martin is 18 years.
Where do celebrities stay in Saint Martin?
On the westernmost point of the French side of St. Martin lies La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St Martin, a full-service, 83-room resort whose private, secluded nature has attracted its fair share of celebrity guests (Oprah, Salma Hayek, Kevin Kline).
Can you take shells from St. Maarten?
It is illegal to transport conch meat and. shells and certain pieces of coral into and out of of Sint. Maarten without the proper permits.
How many days do you need in St. Maarten?
St. Maarten (and its French counterpart, St. Martin) is considered the melting pot of the Caribbean. Three days are enough time to experience the island's rich diversity of cultures and activities, and even venture farther afield in the Lesser Antilles.
What is the cheapest time of year to go to St. Martin?
Book at least 1 week before departure in order to get a below-average price. High season is considered to be February, March and April. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is September.
Is St. Maarten expensive to visit?
A famous jet-set getaway, Sint Maarten is known as one of the more expensive islands in the Caribbean. Gary Meenaghan proves it's possible for a family to stay, and enjoy, for a month without breaking the bank.
Is it better to go to St. Maarten or St. Martin?
Many people prefer Dutch Sint Maarten since it is more developed. This indicates that the amenities and services are more plentiful on this side of the island. However, those who choose a more relaxed setting stay at French Saint Martin. In addition, it has a more “Caribbean vibe”.
Is it safe to go off the resort in St. Maarten?
The main tourist areas are generally safe, but you should take sensible precautions. Avoid remote areas at night. Do not take valuables to the beach. Make sure purses and handbags are closed and not easy to snatch.
What do US citizens need to travel to St. Maarten?
American or Canadian citizens must present a valid passport and a connecting flight or return ticket. For naturalized citizens, you will need an original naturalization certificate with an identity photo. The maximum authorized stay on St. Martin for tourists is 3 months.
Is St. Martin or St Lucia better?
I live on SXM and absolutely love St Lucia. It is probably the most beautiful island in the Caribbean. That said, SXM has nicer beaches and a more international flavor and definitely better restaurants. If you love beaches and great food, then St Maarten is the choice for you.
Is St. Maarten a party island?
In St Maarten, we believe in the old saying, “work hard, play hard.” In fact, St. Maarten is known for its exciting nightlife where the guava berry liqueur flows, and the casinos invite you in for a night of luck.