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.
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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”.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The US Dollar is accepted everywhere on the island. Local currency and US Dollar ATM machines (Maestro/Cirrus) are situated throughout the island. Major credit cards are accepted in most tourist establishments.
St Maarten / St Martin Weather Information July Through November. The wettest months on the island are from July to November. There are 145 days of rain a year on average and it rains usually the most in November (15 days). However, December, May and June are the transition months from dry to wet season.
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.
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.
The warmest water temperature is in September with an average around 84.9°F / 29.4°C. The coldest month is February with an average water temperature of 79°F / 26.1°C.
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.
The dual-nation island is just as safe as other island getaways. Crowds are denser in St. Maarten, however, so travelers should exercise common sense when moving around the tourist areas; leave your valuables at home, and only carry small bills.
The beautiful island setting makes St. Martinan ideal destination for a romantic getaway. A walk hand-in-hand along the most beautiful beaches, a kiss as the waning sun sets the sky ablaze, a romantic dinner and culinary journey at a gourmet restaurant… The Friendly Island has it all.