Is St. Martin on the equator?
Is St. Martin on the equator? The island of St. Martin is right in the Caribbean, in the northern hemisphere, between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator and, more accurately, in the northern part of the Lesser Antilles Archipelago.
Which is better Dutch or French side of St. Martin?
The Dutch side is known for having nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and casinos. The French side has plenty of restaurants, but that is where the night ends. VERDICT: If nightlife matters, the Dutch side is the clear winner.
How long does it take to drive from one end of St. Martin to the other?
You can drive from one end of the island to the next in as little as 30-45 minutes (without traffic), and explore the best things to do on St Maarten.
Can you travel between the Dutch and French side of St. Martin?
There is no physical border between the French and Dutch sides of the island and people and goods may travel freely between the two.
What is the best part of St. Martin?
Simpson Bay is among the most popular towns in Sint Maarten, marked by a luxurious resort and marina that offers a Mediterranean vibe with exotic plant life, beaches, and adventure. You can choose from suites or villas at the resort itself, all of which have full amenities.
Is crime bad in St. Martin?
Most visits to the Dutch Caribbean are trouble-free. However, petty theft and street crime occur. There is violent crime amongst members of the illegal drugs world, but this rarely affects tourists. The main tourist areas are generally safe, but you should take sensible precautions.
Why is St. Martin so windy?
Most of the winds come from the Atlantic and are called Trade Winds. They are stronger during November and April (most of the time). It could be annoying for those looking for no wind, but it also freshens the air.
Why is Saint Martin divided between 2 countries?
The Spanish finally relinquished Saint Martin to the French and Dutch, who divided it between themselves in 1648. Friction between the two sides caused the border to frequently fluctuate over the next two centuries, with the French eventually holding the greater portion of the island (about 61%).
What is the difference between St. Martin and St. Maarten?
Why the two spellings? Well, this 37-square-mile-island is governed by both France and the Netherlands. The French side of the island refers to itself as Saint Martin, while the Dutch side is known as Sint Maarten.
Is the water OK to drink in St. Martin?
Tap water on the island comes from desalinated seawater and is drinkable. We do recommend drinking bottled water which is readily available throughout the island.
Is St. Martin better than St Lucia?
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. Martin 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.
When not to go to St. Martin?
The island's weather is pleasant year-round, but these are times when rain showers are less likely. Summer and early fall are not good for a vacation; many hotels close in this offseason and there's a chance of hurricanes. Also avoid visiting in winter and early spring (mid-December to April) if you can.
Where not to stay in St. Maarten?
If you want to talk about worst area, then we can talk about Sandy Ground and Agrement (both in Marigot). Best Area : The French Low lands, Orient Bay residencial Park and Oyster Pond..
What is the calmest beach in St. Martin?
Friar's Bay Beach (French Side) Friar's Bay Beach is another of St. Martin's best beaches that is well-protected from winds and large surf. Because of its calm waters and wide stretches of sands, it's a top beach in St Maarten for families with young children, including those learning to snorkel.
Should I bring euros to St Martin?
The euro is used in the North (in St. Martin). Despite having two different official currencies, the US Dollar is accepted on both sides, with St. Maarten using the US Dollar the most.
Can you drink tap water in Saint Martin?
Maarten/St. Martin. Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended. High-SPF sunscreen is essential and recommended for those not used to intense sunlight.