Saint Maarten - Discovering Netherlands

Travelling to Saint Maarten

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Saint Maarten, a pretty good destination in Netherlands (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Saint Maarten and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Saint Maarten, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Netherlands, here's everything to know about Saint Maarten for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Saint Maarten

Saint Maarten is an island located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. It is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, meaning that it operates as an autonomous region within the Dutch kingdom. The island is split into two distinct regions, the French side (Saint Martin) and the Dutch side (Sint Maarten). The capital of the Dutch side is Philipsburg, and its official languages are Dutch and English. The economy of Saint Maarten is largely based on tourism, with its beaches, duty-free shopping, and vibrant nightlife attracting visitors from all around the world.

What to visit in Saint Maarten

Certainly! Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Saint Maarten (Netherlands), along with some information about each: 1. Maho Beach - This famous beach is located right next to the runway of Princess Juliana International Airport, making it a popular spot for plane spotters who like to watch the planes take off and land overhead.
2. Philipsburg - The capital city of Saint Maarten, Philipsburg offers plenty of shopping opportunities, as well as historical sites like Fort Amsterdam and the Museum of Sint Maarten.
3. Loterie Farm - This eco-tourism park offers activities like zip-lining, tree-top obstacle courses, and hiking trails through the lush forest.
4. The Butterfly Farm - Located in the French side of Saint Maarten, this farm is home to hundreds of species of butterflies and a great place to learn more about these beautiful creatures.
5. Marigot Market - This colorful outdoor market in the French side of the island offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.
6. Mullet Bay Beach - This expansive beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling thanks to its crystal-clear waters and coral reef.
7. Fort Louis - This historic fort overlooking Marigot harbor was built by the French in the 18th century and offers stunning views of the island and ocean.
8. Orient Bay Beach - This popular beach in the French side of the island is known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmosphere, as well as its clothing-optional areas.
9. Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit - This small museum in downtown Philipsburg is dedicated to the work of special effects artist Nick Maley, who worked on the Star Wars films and other famous movies.
10. Dawn Beach - This quiet beach on the eastern side of the island is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing away from the crowds.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Netherlands, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Saint Maarten.

When to go on holiday to Saint Maarten

The best time to visit Saint Maarten is between the months of December and April. During these months, the weather is dry and temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius), making it a perfect time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore the island. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season and prices tend to be higher. From May to November, there is a higher chance of rain and storms due to hurricane season, but it is still a good time to visit if you are looking for lower prices and fewer crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Saint Maarten

To get to Saint Maarten (Netherlands) you can take a flight from major international airports to the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) which is the main airport of the island. There are direct flights from many cities in North America, Europe, South America, and the Caribbean. Some of the major airlines that fly to Saint Maarten include KLM, Air France, Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, and JetBlue.
Another option is to take a cruise to the island. Many major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian offer itineraries that include a stop in Saint Maarten. The island has two cruise ports: Port St. Maarten and the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility.
Once you arrive on the island, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to get around and explore all that Saint Maarten has to offer.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Saint Maarten, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Saint Maarten

Sure, here are some typical foods of Saint Maarten (Netherlands): 1. Johnny Cake: A Caribbean-style fried bread that is commonly eaten for breakfast, snack or as a side dish for meals. It is made with flour, sugar, baking powder, butter and water.
2. Saltfish and Johnny Cake: A popular breakfast dish made with salted codfish that is boiled, flaked and mixed with boiled onions, garlic, peppers, tomatoes and other seasoning. It is served with Johnny Cake.
3. Callaloo: A soup made from a leafy green vegetable called dasheen or taro leaves, which is simmered with onions, garlic, okra and spices. It is usually served with rice or cornmeal.
4. Conch Fritters: Small, deep-fried balls made from conch, a type of sea snail. They are served as a classic appetizer or snack with a spicy dipping sauce.
5. Rice and Peas: A traditional dish made with long-grain rice cooked in coconut milk and flavored with kidney beans, onion, herbs and spices. It is typically served with stewed or grilled meats, fish or vegetables.
6. BBQ Ribs: Thick and juicy pork ribs marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce and grilled or smoked to perfection. They are often served as a main course with sides like cornbread, coleslaw or potato salad.
7. Dutch Cheese: Saint Maarten is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, so Dutch cheese is a popular delicacy. Gouda is the most common type, but there are many other varieties to choose from. It can be eaten on its own or used in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
You can find general info about typical foods in Netherlands here.

Is Saint Maarten an expensive destination for tourists?

Saint Maarten (Netherlands) can be quite expensive for tourists, particularly in high season. The cost of accommodation, dining out and transportation can be higher than in other destinations in the Caribbean. However, there are also budget-friendly options available, such as guesthouses, local street food and public transportation. It ultimately depends on the style of travel and budget of the individual traveler. It is recommended to research and plan ahead to find deals and budget-friendly options.

Where to find accomodation in Saint Maarten

In Saint Maarten (Netherlands), the areas where it is best to find accommodation to visit are Simpson Bay, Maho, and Philipsburg. Simpson Bay is a great location for those interested in a quieter area with beautiful beaches and water sports activities, as well as access to restaurants and bars. Maho is a lively area with many entertainment options, such as casinos and nightclubs, and close to the airport. Philipsburg offers a captivating colonial architecture, local markets, and a variety of stores to shop for souvenirs and local crafts. All three areas have a good selection of accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Saint Maarten here:
Booking.com

Is Saint Maarten a safe destination for tourists?

Saint Maarten is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as is the case with any tourist destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions.
Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching has been reported in areas where tourists congregate, such as popular beaches and shopping districts, so it is always recommended to keep an eye on your belongings.
Additionally, it is important to exercise caution if you are partying or consuming alcohol as this can leave you vulnerable to being a victim of crime.
Overall, by staying aware and being vigilant, you can minimize your risk while visiting Saint Maarten and enjoy a safe and memorable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Netherlands here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Saint Maarten.

What type of travelers will enjoy Saint Maarten the most?

Saint Maarten (Netherlands) is a popular destination for all types of travelers - couples, young people looking for fun, and families can all enjoy the island. Here are some reasons why: Couples: Saint Maarten offers many romantic experiences, such as sunset cruises, dinner on the beach, and spa treatments for couples. The island has plenty of secluded beaches perfect for couples looking for privacy and stunning views.
Young people looking for fun: Saint Maarten has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and casinos. The island is also known for water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing, which are popular with younger travelers.
Families: Saint Maarten offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including snorkeling, hiking, zip-lining, and exploring cultural landmarks. The island's family-friendly beaches have calm waters and plenty of amenities, making it easy to spend a day at the beach with children.
Overall, Saint Maarten is a diverse and welcoming destination that caters to the interests of all types of travelers.

How to get around Saint Maarten

In Saint Maarten, the transportation options to move around are taxis, rental cars, buses, and ferries. Taxis are the most convenient but also the most expensive option. Rental cars are ideal if you want to explore the island on your own. Buses are available on the Dutch side of the island, and they are a cheap alternative for short trips. Ferries are mainly used to travel between the islands of Saint Maarten and Saint Barthelemy or Anguilla.

What to see around Saint Maarten

Sure, here are some options for day trips from Saint Maarten (Netherlands): 1. St. Barthélemy - Also known as St. Barts, this French territory is only a short ferry ride away and offers pristine beaches, high-end shopping, and delicious French cuisine.
2. Anguilla - This British territory boasts spectacular white sand beaches and turquoise waters, making it perfect for a day of relaxation and water sports.
3. Saba - A volcanic island known for its dramatic landscapes and magnificent views. It's perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
4. St. Eustatius - Known as Statia, this tiny island has a rich history and is home to some of the Caribbean's best-preserved colonial architecture.
5. Pinel Island - Located just a short ferry ride from St. Martin, Pinel Island offers a quiet escape with stunning beaches, snorkeling, and water sports.
6. Loterie Farm - This former sugar plantation turned eco-park offers zip-lining, hiking, and swimming in natural pools.
For every travel information about Netherlands you can click here.

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