Saint Martin

Travel Facts

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions when traveling to the French West Indies, which includes the islands of Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country. Saint Martin is an overseas region of France. Search under France or nearby Caribbean islands for additional basic information.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html

Passport/Visa Requirements

US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 89 days.

US Embassy/Consulate

none (overseas collectivity of France); US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the US Embassy in Barbados [1] (246) 227-4000; US Embassy in Bridgetown, Wildey Business Park, St. Michael BB 14006, Barbados, WI; BridgetownACS@state.gov; https://bb.usembassy.gov

LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html

Telephone Code

590

Local Emergency Phone

Ambulance: 911, 542-2111; Fire: 911,120; Police: 911, 542-2111

Vaccinations

An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.

http://www.who.int/

Climate

Temperature averages 27-29°C (80.6 - 84.2°F) all year long; low humidity, gentle trade winds, brief, intense rain showers; hurricane season stretches from July to November

Currency (Code)

Euros (EUR)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

220 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): C, E

Plug Type CPlug Type E

Major Languages

French, English, Dutch, French Patois, Spanish, Papiamento (dialect of Netherlands Antilles)

Major Religions

Roman Catholic, Jehovah's Witness, Protestant, Hindu

Time Difference

UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Potable Water

Yes

International Driving Permit

Suggested

Road Driving Side

Right

Tourist Destinations

Marigot; Pinel Island; Little Bay Beach; Orient Bay Beach; Mullet Bay; Kim Sha Beach

Major Sports

Soccer, sailing, tack and field, rugby

Cultural Practices

The local culture of Saint Martin is known to be very warm, welcoming, and hospitable.

Tipping Guidelines

On the French side of the island a service charge is included in the price of a meal. Most guests tip by rounding up and leave a few euros.

Souvenirs

Flavored liqueurs, rum, and wine; guavaberry products; spices; perfumes and cosmetics

Traditional Cuisine

Conch & Dumplings — conch (sea snail) tenderized and pressure-cooked with dumplings, herbs, and spices; the sauce from the conch and dumplings is used as gravy to eat with rice, vegetables, or johnnycakes (pancakes made with cornmeal)


Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency? 
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444


Page last updated: Tuesday, September 12, 2023