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.
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.
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.
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.
St. Maarten is a culturally diverse nation, famously known for being shared by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and France. The union is upheld by the Treaty of Concordia signed in 1648. The Dutch side is 16 square miles and the French 21 square miles but interestingly, English is the mother-tongue of the entire 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.
Visitors should not miss the chance to try locals' favorite dishes, which include oxtail stew, Johnny Cakes (tasty little fried rolls), Jacks (fried fish), beef or fish patties, and the island's great traditional dish, crab and rice.
St.Martin has a dual identity, with residents speaking Dutch and French, respectively. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that the two sides differ in their choice of beer. Carib -- again -- is the favorite on the French side, while Heineken's Dutch taste keeps St. Maarten locals happy.
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.
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).
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.