St. Martin, and idyllic island destination that lets you experience paradise at the tip of your toes. This Caribbean island which is divided between the French Republic and the Netherlands is a popular tourist destination for those seeking relaxing tropical vacation days and fun, festive nights. But before you head to this island gem, there are a few things you need to prepare. In this article, we're giving you our tips for the 10 things you need to do before you book your trip.
Always remember to check the requirements of your country for entering St. Martin. Aside from this, you are required to present a passport for the duration of your stay which is valid for at least six months and a valid return or onward ticket.
The two official currencies accepted in St. Martin are the Euro for the French side and Netherlands Antilles Guilder for the Dutch side. The US Dollar is also accepted widely across the island however it is always safer to have your money changed in the local currency. Mastercard and Visa are accepted throughout most of the island.
Renting a car will allow you to have the freedom to travel at your own pace and navigate through the island as you wish, however, renting a scooter is also possible. Public transportation options are also available from buses to taxis.
The legal drinking age on the island is 18yrs old. Make sure to present valid and official identification such as a passport or driver's license.
The Dutch side of the island's airport is Princess Juliana International Airport and the language is mainly Dutch and English. The ATMs dispense in Netherlands Antilles Guilder and USD and electric outlets are at 110 volts.
The French side of the island's airport is the Grand Case - L'Esperance and the language is mainly French and English. The ATMs dispense in Euro and USD and the electric outlets are at 220 volts.
Aside from your entry and exit requirements from the country, make sure to bring your flipflops, beach gear, sunblock, and an adapter for your electronics.
Lightweight, tropical clothing is most advisable. But don't forget to bring a nice dressed up look for a fancy night out as well. Make sure to pack your swimsuits and cover-ups and you're good to go!
Both sides of the island drive on the right side of the road, similar to the United States. Honking is a customary way to say hello to someone on the road so don't be surprised if you noticed getting honked at frequently. For those planning to drive on the French side of the island, you are required to have an International Driving Permit.
St. Martin has generally pleasant weather throughout the year with the exception of extra humidity during the summer months.
The best time to visit St. Martin is late-April through June or between November and mid-December. During Fall, many restaurants, and accommodations (especially on the French side), tend to close for renovations, but are reopen in full swing just in time for Winter. St. Martin’s offseason is also the Atlantic hurricane season, so be sure to keep track of the latest weather patterns prior to and during your travel at this time.
Now that you're packed with all the necessary information you need, it's time to pack your bags
and head off for the vacation of a lifetime at St. Martin.
Blog →
1. Make sure you've completed immigration requirements
Always remember to check the requirements of your country for entering St. Martin. Aside from this, you are required to present a passport for the duration of your stay which is valid for at least six months and a valid return or onward ticket.
2. Accepted currencies and credit cards
The two official currencies accepted in St. Martin are the Euro for the French side and Netherlands Antilles Guilder for the Dutch side. The US Dollar is also accepted widely across the island however it is always safer to have your money changed in the local currency. Mastercard and Visa are accepted throughout most of the island.
3. How to get around
Renting a car will allow you to have the freedom to travel at your own pace and navigate through the island as you wish, however, renting a scooter is also possible. Public transportation options are also available from buses to taxis.
4. Know the legal drinking age
The legal drinking age on the island is 18yrs old. Make sure to present valid and official identification such as a passport or driver's license.
5. Differences between the Dutch and French side of the island
The Dutch side of the island's airport is Princess Juliana International Airport and the language is mainly Dutch and English. The ATMs dispense in Netherlands Antilles Guilder and USD and electric outlets are at 110 volts.
The French side of the island's airport is the Grand Case - L'Esperance and the language is mainly French and English. The ATMs dispense in Euro and USD and the electric outlets are at 220 volts.
6. What you should bring
Aside from your entry and exit requirements from the country, make sure to bring your flipflops, beach gear, sunblock, and an adapter for your electronics.
7. Clothing
Lightweight, tropical clothing is most advisable. But don't forget to bring a nice dressed up look for a fancy night out as well. Make sure to pack your swimsuits and cover-ups and you're good to go!
8. Driving rules and regulations
Both sides of the island drive on the right side of the road, similar to the United States. Honking is a customary way to say hello to someone on the road so don't be surprised if you noticed getting honked at frequently. For those planning to drive on the French side of the island, you are required to have an International Driving Permit.
9. St. Martin weather
St. Martin has generally pleasant weather throughout the year with the exception of extra humidity during the summer months.
10. The perfect time to visit
The best time to visit St. Martin is late-April through June or between November and mid-December. During Fall, many restaurants, and accommodations (especially on the French side), tend to close for renovations, but are reopen in full swing just in time for Winter. St. Martin’s offseason is also the Atlantic hurricane season, so be sure to keep track of the latest weather patterns prior to and during your travel at this time.
Now that you're packed with all the necessary information you need, it's time to pack your bags
and head off for the vacation of a lifetime at St. Martin.
Blog →
