Saint-Martin, France - Travel Guide

Saint-Martin is the French northern half of a unique Caribbean island shared with Dutch Sint Maarten. This collectivity of France offers pristine beaches, exceptional French-Caribbean cuisine, and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. From the charming capital of Marigot with its waterfront market to the glamorous beaches of Orient Bay, Saint-Martin delivers European elegance with Caribbean warmth.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay5 days

Budget$100/day

Mid-range$200/day

Luxury$450/day

Known For

beachfrench-caribbeangastronomyluxuryisland

🇫🇷 Country Information: France

CapitalParis

CurrencyEuro (€)

LanguageFrench , English, German, Spanish, Italian

Phone Code+33

Electricity230V (Type C, E)

Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory as service charge is usually included, but rounding up or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated in restaurants and cafes
Tipping taxi drivers is not common, but a small tip is appreciated for long rides or extra help with luggage
For hotel staff, a few euros for housekeeping or porters is customary

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available
Credit cards are widely accepted
Cash is still common, especially for smaller purchases
No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

Dress respectfully, especially in religious sites
Greet people with "Bonjour"
Eating customs involve using cutlery, keeping hands on the table (not in lap), and waiting for everyone to be served before starting to eat
It is polite to say "Bon appétit" before a meal

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. France is generally considered LGBTQ+ friendly with robust legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, including same-sex marriage and adoption.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

Legal drinking age is 18
Drug laws are strict, with penalties for possession and consumption of illegal drugs

Special Laws

It is illegal to smoke in public indoor spaces and on public transport
Be aware of varying rules for drones
Jaywalking can result in a fine

Common Phrases

NoNon (NOHN)

YesOui (WEE)

HelloBonjour (bohn-ZHOOR)

PleaseS'il vous plaît (seel voo PLEH)

Excuse mePardon (par-DOHN)

Thank youMerci (mer-SEE)

Climate

Tropical climate with consistent warmth. Hurricane season June-November. Trade winds provide cooling.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (Dec
Apr): Best weather, dry, higher prices
Shoulder (May, Nov): Good weather, fewer tourists
Hurricane Season (Jun
Oct): Risk of storms, lowest prices

Getting There

Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side is the main hub with connections from North America and Europe
Grand Case
Esperance Airport (SFG) handles small aircraft
Ferry services connect to neighboring islands
Border between French and Dutch sides is open

Getting Around

Rental cars recommended for exploring both sides of the island
Taxis available but expensive
No public bus system on French side
Walking possible in Marigot and Grand Case
Easy to cross to Dutch side

Health & Vaccinations

No special vaccinations required
Hepatitis A recommended
French healthcare standards apply
Pharmacies available in Marigot

Staying Connected

French carriers work (Orange, SFR)
eSIMs: Airalo, Holafly work well
WiFi widely available

Local Cuisine

Accras de morue street_food

Crispy salt cod fritters - a beloved French Caribbean appetizer made with seasoned codfish batter, deep-fried to golden perfection. Often served with

Colombo must_try

A curry-spiced meat stew that reflects the Indian influence on Caribbean cuisine. Usually made with chicken, goat, or pork in aromatic colombo spice b

Fresh Lobster must_try

Caribbean spiny lobster grilled or prepared with Creole sauce. Saint-Martin is famous for its fresh seafood, especially during lobster season.

Boudin Creole regional_speciality

Spiced blood sausage made with pork, herbs, and Caribbean seasonings. A unique local delicacy reflecting French culinary influence.

Ti Punch beverage

The quintessential French Caribbean cocktail made with white rum, lime, and cane syrup. Each bartender has their own recipe.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Peak Season Accommodation Accommodation

Book 2-6 months in advance

Saint-Martin has limited hotel inventory and the best properties book out months ahead for December-April high season, especially Christmas and New Year.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Grand Case Restaurant Reservations Dining

Book 3 days to 2 weeks in advance

Grand Case is the gourmet capital of the island with small, popular restaurants along the beach that fill up for dinner.

Water Sports and Boat Tours tour_or_activity

Book 3 days to 2 weeks in advance

Popular catamaran trips to Anguilla, snorkeling excursions, and jet ski rentals have limited capacity during high season.

Fun Facts

Saint-Martin is the smallest landmass divided between two nations
The island has no border controls despite being split between France and Netherlands
Orient Bay is one of the Caribbean premier nude beaches
Marigot market is considered one of the best in the Caribbean

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