​Hello Friends!

Shhhh! Do you hear that? That's the island of St. Maarten calling! if you and yours are seeking a fun, gorgeous Caribbean destination to get away from it all, then this may just be the island for you. One part of the island is Dutch, the other is French. Talk about an efficient vacation!  

​Erik

ST. MAARTEN- A LITTLE LIGHT READING

FAST FACTS
​Continent or Region:  The Caribbean
Country: St. Maarten 
Capital: Philipsburg
Primary Language: French, English
Time Zone: Central
Currency: Dollar (US Dollar can be used)

​​Passport: Yes, Americans need a valid passport to enter St Maarten
Visa: American citizens do not need a visa if traveling for vacation

More information on passports & visas can be found here.

I love traveling abroad as much as I love traveling within my home country of the United States. However, I want you to be safe and be an excellent representative of your home country. Even in places that are very friendly to visitors, remember that you are in a foreign country and understanding local customs is critical. So, here are a few tips as you prepare for your adventure.
  1. Before you depart from your home country, call The US Embassy (or your home country embassy) and tell them you are leaving your home country. That way they are aware of your whereabouts in case of emergency.
  2. Carry only the credit cards you are using to charge expenses. Call those credit card companies before you leave. Do not travel with your debit cards. 
  3. Clean out your wallet or purse and carry only what you need. 
  4. Solve your mobile phone situation before you depart. Usually a phone call to your provider will get you started.
  5. Keep all medications with you in your carry on.
  6. Leave a photo copy of all your travel documents (passport, itinerary, copy of your credit cards) with a friend or at your home. 
  7. Do not travel with expensive jewelry.
  8. Make sure you travel with a valid passport or visa (if required). Also, bring another valid form of photo I.D., and photocopies of both I.D.s. in case of loss or theft.
  9. Read up on local laws and practices before you get here.
  10. Be a respective guest of the local customs and obey the local laws.
  11. If English is not the primary language, then familiarize yourself with key phrases and make attempts in the country's primary language. Locals usually appreciate the effort.  
  12. Keep luggage, handbags or backpacks in view at all times.
  13. Keep possessions close to your body.
  14. Don’t take around large amounts of cash.
  15. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry on road trips or excursions.

For US citizens, visit the US State Department's website (for American citizens) before you travel abroad. Here's a direct link to get started. 
TRANSPORTATION
Generally speaking, it is pretty easy to get to St Maarten by air from major hubs in the US and Canada. Have a look at Vayama for flights! 

Major Air Gateway(s): 
​Cruise Port(s): 
Driving: On the left
Car Rentals: You can rent a car or scooter in St Maarten​
THE WEATHER
WHERE TO STAY
Coming Soon
HELPFUL LINKS
St. Maarten has an official tourism bureau. Learn more by watching this video. 

​St. Maarten Official Tourism Site
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