Sint Maarten

Netherlands

Sint Maarten is the Dutch southern half of a Caribbean island shared with French Saint-Martin. Famous worldwide for Maho Beach where jets land meters above sunbathers, the island offers world-class duty-free shopping in Philipsburg, lively casinos, excellent beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It is the Caribbean busiest cruise port and a shopper paradise.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay6 days
Budget$100/day
Mid-range$220/day
Luxury$450/day

Known For

caribbeandutch-caribbeanbeachesnightlifeshoppingcruise-port

🇳🇱 Country Information: Netherlands

CapitalAmsterdam
CurrencyEuro (€)
Language Dutch , English, German, French
Phone Code+31
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service; typically round up or leave 5
  • 10% in restaurants and bars
  • Tipping taxi drivers is not common
  • Tipping hotel staff for good service is appreciated

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available
  • Credit cards are widely accepted
  • Bringing cash is advisable for smaller purchases and markets
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Punctuality is highly valued
  • Direct communication is common and not considered rude
  • Cycling is a major mode of transport; be aware of bike lanes and rules
  • Dutch people tend to be informal in social interactions

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. The Netherlands has a long history of LGBTQ+ rights and was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are generally liberal regarding soft drugs (cannabis) in designated "coffeeshops" but possession of hard drugs is illegal and strictly enforced

Special Laws

  • Public urination is illegal and can result in fines
  • Cycling laws are strict; always use bike paths and signals
  • Smoking cannabis is only permitted in licensed coffeeshops, not in public

Common Phrases

NoNee (NAY)
YesJa (YAH)
HelloHallo (HAH-low)
PleaseAlstublieft (AHL-stoo-bleeft)
Excuse mePardon (pahr-DON)
Thank youDank u wel (DAHNK oo vehl)

Climate

Tropical maritime climate with warm temperatures year-round (77-86F). Trade winds provide cooling. Hurricane season June-November.

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Johnnycakes breakfast

Deep-fried cornmeal dumplings, crispy outside and fluffy inside. A Caribbean breakfast staple often served with saltfish or on their own.

Conch must_try

Large sea snail prepared various ways - fritters, salad, stew, or grilled. A quintessential Caribbean delicacy with chewy, flavorful meat.

Guavaberry Liqueur beverage

Sint Maarten's signature spirit made from local guavaberries and rum. A traditional Christmas drink now enjoyed year-round.

Rib Eye Steak must_try

Sint Maarten is surprisingly known for excellent steakhouses due to American tourism influence. High-quality imported beef grilled to perfection.

Fresh Fruit Smoothies beverage

Tropical fruit blends made with local produce - mango, papaya, soursop, and passion fruit. Refreshing and everywhere on the island.

Book in Advance

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

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Peak Season Hotels Accommodation
Book 2-6 months in advance

Sint Maarten is a major cruise destination with limited hotel inventory. December-April high season fills up, especially during carnival.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Maho Beach Area Tours tour_or_activity
Book 2-7 days in advance

The famous airplane landing beach is iconic. Sunset Bar area tours and experiences can fill up during cruise ship days.

12 Metre Challenge tour_or_activity
Book 3 days to 2 weeks in advance

Sailing on authentic Americas Cup yachts is a unique experience with limited daily departures.

Fun Facts

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