Which side of St. Martin is better?

While Sint Maarten has the upper hand in nightlife, the French side of the island is known for having the more pristine beaches.



Whether the French side (Saint-Martin) or the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) is "better" depends entirely on your preferred vacation vibe. The Dutch side is the hub of activity; it is famous for its vibrant nightlife, large casinos, high-end jewelry shopping in Philipsburg, and the thrill of Maho Beach, where planes land just feet above tourists. It feels more developed and "Americanized." Conversely, the French side is celebrated for its sophisticated "European" atmosphere, world-class gastronomy in Grand Case (the culinary capital of the Caribbean), and more secluded, clothing-optional beaches like Orient Bay. If you want a high-energy, bustling atmosphere with cruise ship amenities, the Dutch side is superior. If you prefer a romantic, laid-back "French Riviera" feel with boutique hotels and gourmet dining, the French side is the clear winner. Fortunately, there is no hard border, so you can easily enjoy the best of both worlds within a 30-minute drive.

People Also Ask

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.

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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..

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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.

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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).

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There is no physical border between the French and Dutch territories and people and goods may travel freely between both sides of the island. The Dutch side's official currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) while the official currency of the French side is the euro (EUR).

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The official local currency is the Antillean guilder (ANG) and has been fixed to the US Dollar at approximately 1.80 ANG to 1USD for over 35 years. The US Dollar is accepted everywhere on the island. Local currency and US Dollar ATM machines (Maestro/Cirrus) are situated throughout the island.

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Between 1627 and 1631, Holland decided to send settlers to St. Martin, to exploit the island's natural salt reserves. The French and the Dutch signed the Treaty of Concordia, also known as the Partition Treaty, on March 23, 1648. So the island was split into two parts and shared by France and Holland.

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Yes, St Maarten is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, as with any destination, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables secure.

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