Saint Maarten, the tropical island where the Netherlands and France meet
Year-round sunshine, breathtaking views, vibrant nightlife, and excellent restaurants, all on an small island state. With the nearest beach always within a 15-minute drive, what more could you ask for? On Sint Maarten, you truly experience the best of both worlds, with two distinct cultures on one island.
Sint Maarten is located in the northeastern Caribbean and, together with Saba and Sint Eustatius, forms part of the Windward Islands. Nearby islands include Anguilla and Saint Barthélemy. Compared to the ABC islands, Sint Maarten is closer to Europe, with direct flights reaching the island in approximately 9 hours. The island covers 87 km², of which around 53 km² belongs to the French side and 34 km² to the Dutch side. Despite its small size, both sides have a very distinct identity.
The Dutch side is lively and internationally oriented. Here, you will find large hotels, casinos, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The area around Simpson Bay is known for its beach parties, where you can dance with your feet in the sand. In the capital, Philipsburg, you will find a charming boulevard and colorful streets lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops. Shopping here is duty-free, offering a wide selection of luxury goods such as jewelry, watches, and electronics. A must-visit on the Dutch side is Maho Beach, famous worldwide for the low-flying airplanes that pass spectacularly close overhead. English is the official language on the Dutch side, and the US dollar and Netherlands Antillean guilder are commonly used.
The French side, on the other hand, offers a more शांत and refined atmosphere with a distinct French and Mediterranean character. Here, you will find charming boulangeries, boutique-style accommodations, and excellent restaurants. In Marigot, the capital of the French side, the difference is immediately noticeable. With its colonial architecture and relaxed ambiance, it feels like a piece of France in the Caribbean. Thanks to the French influence, a café au lait and a fresh baguette are never far away. On the French side, French is the main language and the euro is the official currency.
Sint Maarten has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius year-round. There is a distinction between a wetter season from June to November and a drier season from December to June.
Good to know:
When traveling to Sint Maarten, it is mandatory to complete a digital ED card (immigration form) via https://www.entry.sx/. For the most up-to-date travel information, please visit https://www.vacationstmaarten.com/plan-your-vacation/travel-entry-requirement/
