What is the difference between the French and Dutch side of St Maarten?
While Sint Maarten has the upper hand in nightlife, the French side of the island is known for having the more pristine beaches. Notoriously white sands edge up against crystalline turquoise oceans on the shorelines along the island's northern face.
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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.
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.
St. Martin's Dutch side is known for its festive nightlife, beaches, jewellery, drinks made with native rum-based guavaberry liquors, and casinos. The island's French side is known for its nude beaches, clothes, shopping (including outdoor markets), and French and Indian Caribbean cuisine.
Best beaches on Saint Martin, the French sideOrient Bay : Often called the Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean, this is one of the most famous beaches in Saint Martin. It is also one of the largest on the island and is home to many restaurants and bars.
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.
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”.
As history tells it, the dividing line was determined by two walkers, a Frenchman and a Dutchman. Standing back-to-back, they began walking in opposite directions along the coastline. So the history of St. Martin is based on a mutual respect between two nations.
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.
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).
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).
Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya are all present in Sint Maarten, so take care to avoid mosquito bites. Use a reliable insect repellent and wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Sleep in air-conditioned accommodations or under a net if possible.
This was the official currency of the former Netherlands Antillies, and is still used today. 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.
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.
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.
Culture and Tourism: Both islands have unique cultural identities, with Barbados being known for its music, food, and sports, including cricket. St.Maarten, on the other hand, is a popular tourist destination for its beaches, nightlife, and duty-free shopping.
See our dedicated what to do with kids on St Maarten page for the best beaches and activities for our junior visitors! ? CAN YOU WALK AROUND ST. MAARTEN ? St Maarten is a compact island allowing, in theory, to walk around the entire island within a day.
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..