Practical Information to Help You Plan Your Trip to Saint Martin
Saint Martin is located in the northeastern Caribbean, about 250 km from
Guadeloupe. The island is divided between two territories:
• The French side (Saint-Martin), with Marigot as its capital.
• The Dutch side (Sint Maarten), whose capital is Philipsburg.
No physical border separates the two sides: travel is free from one country to
the other.
• Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) – Dutch side: handles
international flights (from Paris, New York, Miami, Montreal, etc.)
• Grand-Case Espérance Airport (SFG) – French side: primarily for regional
flights (Guadeloupe, Saint Barthélemy, etc.).
• Arrival by sea: numerous ferries connect Saint Martin to Saint Barthélemy,
Anguilla, and Saba.the other.
• Compared to Paris: Winter: -5 hours / Summer: -6 hours
• Compared to New York, Montreal, or Toronto: Winter: +1 hour / Summer:
same time
• On the French side: the euro (€).
• On the Dutch side: the Antillean guilder (NAF), but the US dollar ($) is widely
accepted.
Credit cards are widely accepted.
• On the French side : French is the official language, English is widely spoken.
• On the Dutch side : English is the dominant language, Dutch is rarely used.
• Spanish and Creole are also spoken.
Hot and sunny tropical climate year-round (26°C to 32°C).
• Dry season : December to April (high season, ideal climate).
• Rainy season : June to November (tropical downpours and risk of cyclones)
• Rental car : the most convenient way to explore.
• Taxis : plentiful, but without meters (fare to be agreed upon before
departure).
• Public transport : inexpensive but infrequent local minibuses.
• Driving : right-hand drive throughout the island; roads are sometimes
narrow and winding.
• Both territories have their own mobile networks: roaming can therefore be
applied between the two sides of the island.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, bars and restaurants.
• French side: 220 V, European plugs.
• Dutch side: 110 V, American plugs.
A universal adapter is therefore recommended.
• No vaccinations are required
• It is not recommended to drink tap water! Please use bottled water.
Medical facilities are of a good standard :
• Louis-Constant Fleming Hospital in Marigot.
• Sint Maarten Medical Center in Cay Hill.
• The island is generally safe, but it is not recommended to leave valuables in
cars or on the beach.
Quick Tips
- Duty-free island: Saint Martin is a tax-free destination. You’ll find great deals on jewelry, perfumes, alcohol, tobacco, and electronics...
- Tipping: In restaurants and bars, service is not always included. Expect to tip around 10 to 15%, as in the United States or Canada.
- Language and hospitality: Whether you speak French, English, or Spanish, the people of Saint-Martin are welcoming. A smile always opens doors.
- Beach atmosphere: Some beaches are quiet and family-friendly, while others are lively or clothing-optional. Do your research before you go to find the one that suits you best
- Local life: Supermarkets often close early in the evening and on Sunday afternoons. Restaurants, however, stay open late, especially during peak season.
ESCAPE 2026
Escape, the Saint Martin guide – explore beaches, restaurants, activities, and boutiques handpicked for a full island experience.
See the 2026 edition!
