Currency:
Euro - St. Martin
Netherland Antilles guilder and US dollar - St. Maarten
US funds are widely accepted
Language:
French - St. Martin
Dutch - St. Maarten
Time Zone:
AST (same time as EST)
neither observes daylight savings time
Capital:
Marigot - French Capital
Philipsburg - Dutch Capital
Climate:
tropical with little seasonal temp variations.
Hurricane season June - November
High season: December - April (2 week fiesta takes place)
Strong Humidity: May to November
Airport:
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side
Carriers include Delta, United, American Airlines, Air Canada, KLM, Air France, Air Caraibes, Air Antilles, LIAT
Cruise Ports:
most dock in Philipsburg or at the marina at the southern tip of Philipsburg harbour, small ships may anchor in Marigot Bay and tender people to shore
Banks:
credit cards are widely accepted
ATM's found in all the tourist zones, dispenses local currency
Most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops accept major credit cards
Electricity:
French side: 220 volts with French outlets
Dutch side: 110 volts with North American outlets
Food:
safe to eat
10% service charge is usually included in the bill
Water:
safe to drink
Medical:
good and easy to find
Safety:
Stick with normal tourist recommendations (ex. avoid flashy jewelry). As always, be aware and respectful of locals and you'll have no issues. Women can travel solo here and feel safe. Theft is uncommon but does happen - secure your purses and wallets but theft on the beach is very common especially on isolated beaches/hiking trails. The Dutch police do not readily exchange information with the French (and vice-versa) so this can complicate things. Rental cars are prime targets so make sure to leave nothing in them.
Phone calls:
cell phones can be rented on the island for short-term use
phone cards can be purchased at major post offices
calling from one side of the island to the other is considered international
Arrival:
to get into the country EU citizens need a national ID or passport, everyone else needs a valid passport
visitors must also have a valid return ticket off of the island
if your stay is over three months or for work you will need a visa
Rental Car:
Avis, Hertz, Paradise
Taxi:
abundant and government regulated with rates increasing in the evening and if more than three passengers or for excess luggage
