The ultimate checklist to prepare your trip to Saint-Martin/Sint-Maarten
St. Martin is a paradise island in the Caribbean, shared between France and the Netherlands. It is a popular destination for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and rich culture. Before leaving to discover this beautiful island, follow our ultimate checklist to prepare your trip to Saint-Martin and enjoy your stay.
Travel documents :
- Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date.
- Visa: Nationals of many countries do not need a visa for a short tourist stay. Check the visa requirements for your nationality with the French and Dutch embassies.
- Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance to cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation and loss of luggage or property.
Find more information about the formalities of arrival in Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten.
Reservations:
- Flights: Book your flights to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) or Grand Case Airport (SFG).
- Accommodation: Book your hotel, villa or rental apartment in advance according to your budget and preferences.
- Transportation: Plan your trips on the island (car rental , cabs, public transportation).
Health:
- Vaccinations: Consult your doctor to see if you need any specific vaccinations before you leave.
- First Aid Kit: Bring a first aid kit with basic medications, bandages, sunscreen, mosquito repellent and motion sickness medication.
Money and currency:
- Currency : The French side uses the euro (€) and the dollar ($) and the Dutch side uses the Netherlands Antilles guilder (ANG) and also the dollar ($). Bring cash and a credit card for payments.
- Budget : Prepare a daily budget to cover expenses for lodging, food, activities and souvenirs.
Luggage:
- Clothing: Bring light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, hats, sunglasses and appropriate footwear for the beach and hiking.
- Accessories: Don’t forget your camera, an electrical outlet adapter and an external battery to recharge your electronic devices.
- Snorkeling: If you plan to snorkel, bring your own equipment or check with your accommodation for availability.
Plan your activities:
Look for must-see attractions and activities to do on the island, such as visiting Fort Louis, Maho Beach where planes land nearby, and the Pinel Island Nature Reserve.
Check out local events, festivals and markets to enjoy the cultural atmosphere of St. Martin.
Respect the environment:
- Choose biodegradable sunscreen products to protect coral reefs and marine life.
- Use reusable water bottles to reduce plastic consumption.
- Respect the local fauna and flora by not touching the animals and by not taking corals or shells.
Practical information:
- Time Zone: St. Maarten is located in the GMT-4 time zone.
- Electricity: The electrical outlets are type C, E and F on the French side and type A and B on the Dutch side. The voltage is 220V at 60Hz on the French side and 110V at 60Hz on the Dutch side. A universal adapter is recommended.
Security:
- Be aware of local safety regulations, follow them and avoid leaving your valuables unattended.
- In case of emergency, dial 112 on the French side or 911 on the Dutch side.
By following this checklist, you will be perfectly prepared to enjoy your stay in Saint-Martin. This beautiful island and its friendly people are waiting for you to experience an unforgettable vacation in the Caribbean.