English is the most commonly spoken language along with a local dialect. The official languages are French for Saint-Martin, and both Dutch and English for Sint Maarten.
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Sint-Maarten is not considered as European territory. It is not part of the Schengen area, it is an independent state that is connected to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. For French citizens arriving at the Grand Case Esperance airport (code SFG), on the French side, a valid identity card is sufficient.
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.
St. Maarten is generally considered a safe place to visit, but as with any tourist destination there are some general safety precautions you should take. St. Martin is one of the safest warm weather climate (outside US) locations to visit.
Martin is a must-visit. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fusion of French and Dutch cultures create a unique experience. The island's charm, warm hospitality, and diverse activities make it well worth the trip.
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.
In St Maarten, divided between the Dutch side (St Maarten) and the French side (St Martin), both the US Dollar and the Euro are valid forms of payment. The US Dollar is widely recognized on both sides, offering convenience to most travelers, whereas the Euro is the official currency on the French side.
As you know, the Netherlands is a member of the European Union, so EU citizens will not need to worry about obtaining St Maarten permanent residency permits and visas to migrate to St Maarten.
Currently, the island is divided into Sint Maarten (the southern half of the island, part of the Netherlands) and the Collectivity of Saint Martin (the northern half of the island, part of France).
We often get the question that how long does it take to drive around St. Maarten. Well, it depends very much on the traffic. Without any traffic, around 50-60 minutes, but roads can get very busy during peak hours in Simpson Bay, Cole Bay and Marigot.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Many cruise ships visit the island on a weekly basis, docking at the Port of St. Maarten in Philipsburg. You will need a passport to travel to and from St. Martin but rest assured that you can travel freely between the island's French and Dutch sides.