I have never had a problem on either side of the island using my debit card. As long as it is mastercard or visa you should be all good. There are a good amount of atms on the island if you need one.
People Also Ask
The Antillean Guilder or Florin is the official currency in St.Maarten, which is divided into 100 cents. US dollars are accepted at the majority of businesses on the Dutch side of the island. On the French side, the euro is the official currency.
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.
Despite having two different official currencies, the US Dollar is accepted on both sides, with St. Maarten using the US Dollar the most. It is not unusual to receive change in US Dollar even when payment is made with the guilder.
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.
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.
Sint Maarten vs. Saint Martin … one beautiful Caribbean island with two completely different vibes. Sint Maarten is located on the Dutch side, and Saint Maarten is on the French side.
The island has several cellular phone carriers, namely TellCell and UTS (Chippie) on the Dutch side. Visitors can purchase SIM cards at many locations for as low as $10 (plus $10 for prepaid phone minutes). Incoming calls are free.
Upon arrival in Sint Maarten, you must have: a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay;a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card). You can complete the ED-Card on the airplane en route to Sint Maarten or in advance by using ED-Card Online.
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.
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.
Maarten's Guavaberry. This refreshing beverage is the national drink of both the French and Dutch sides of the island. It is made from the small guavaberry fruits that grow on the island and are used in a variety of mixed drinks and cocktails.
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.