1 Week in Sint Maarten
Writing this, I’m filled with joy at the thought of the amazing trip I had in Sint Maarten. This was my first time traveling in almost two years and the urge to travel again was so strong. I can confidently recommend this amazing Caribbean island to anyone.
About Sint Maarten/St. Martin
Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is an island of the Caribbean who is divided into two parts: The Dutch side (Sint Maarten) that is one of the countries of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands and the French (Saint Martin) that is one of the countries part of France. The island is the smallest landmass shared by two countries. The two parts of the island now live peacefully together and offer amazing cuisine, beautiful beaches and amazing activities.
International airport: Princess Juliana International Airport
Weather: Hot and humid - pack a lot of bathing suits and dresses!
Transportation around the island: The island is easily walkable in some areas, however taxi’s are also a great way to get around. We had a great driver named Rosa and Jean for our week on the island. It made it easier to get groceries, to get to specific beaches and restaurants.
You can find Jean from The Care-Taker on www.taxisamuel.com and hire him for your stay.
Currency
We converted our Canadian money into USD. Cash is useful, however if you want to use your credit card, that option is also available most places.
Euro’s are also used in most places!
We spent way more than expected during our time in Sint Maarten/Sint Martin, I would say it is slightly more expensive than other Caribbean islands.
Languages
English is widely spoken everywhere - You may also hear Spanish, Creole, French and Papiamento on both sides of the island.
Where To Stay
A group of 10 of us had the opportunity to stay in this epic Airbnb! It was perfectly located on the Dutch side.
There are loads of hotels and resorts to stay at on both the Dutch and the French side, however, there are also a lot of Airbnb options as well.
What To Do
Spent your days at the most beautiful beaches:
Orient Bay beach
Maho beach (famous plane landing beach)
Mullet Bay beach (a favorite)
Cupe Coy - this ones another favorite beach of mine, it was secluded and more private with white sand and clear blue water.
Rent a catamaran! We were a group of 10 so we rented a whole catamaran for the 10 of us. Our captains were so much fun and made the experience even better. We went to two beaches, got to do some snorkeling and see sea turtles, drink a lot of punch and eat amazing food!
Rent a four wheeler to explore the island. We rented a four wheeler for the day and made out way to Saint Martin to explore the French side of the island. It was a fun way to see the island.
Go rum tasting - You’ll be sure to taste Guavaberry rum, a famous Sint Maarten rum.
Visit the spa
Go on the steepest zipline in the world “The Flying Dutchman”
Visit the Captital of the island: Philipsburg .
Feel free to walk around the island, it is very safe and the people are helpful and kind.
Where To Eat
Lee’s
Da Waterhole
Bamboo SMX
Karibuni (on a little island, you need a boat to get there. This was the stop we made for lunch on the catamaran)
Sandy’s (in St. Martin)
Skip Jack’s (the best seafood)
Isola (Italian restaurant)
Buccaneer Beach Bar
Note: If you enjoy seafood, the island has the best seafood I’ve ever eaten! Also, try a BBC cocktail (Bailey’s, banana & coconut - YUM!)
