Sint Maarten

Travel Facts

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Sint Maarten. 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.


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

Passport/Visa Requirements

US citizens should make sure their passport is valid at the date of their entering the country and during the length of their entire visit. 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 required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.

US Embassy/Consulate

US does not have an embassy in Sint Maarten; the Consul General to Curacao is accredited to Sint Maarten; US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the Embassy in Curacao [599] (9) 461-3066; US Consulate General in Curacao, PO Box 158, J.B. Gorsiraweg 1, Curacao; ACSCuracao@state.gov; https://cw.usconsulate.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

721

Local Emergency Phone

Ambulance: 912; Fire: +1 721 545-4222 ; Police: 911

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

Tropical marine climate, ameliorated by northeast trade winds, results in moderate temperatures; average rainfall of 150 cm/year; hurricane season stretches from July to November

Currency (Code)

Netherlands Antillean guilders (ANG)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

110 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): A, B

Plug Type APlug Type B

Major Languages

English, Spanish, Creole, Dutch, Papiamento (a Spanish-Portuguese-Dutch-English dialect), French

Major Religions

Protestant 41.9%, Roman Catholic 33.1%, Hindu 5.2%, Christian 4.1%, Jehovah's Witness 1.7%, Evangelical 1.4%, Muslim/Jewish 1.1%

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

Maho Beach; Front Street; Mullet Bay; Yacht Club at Isle de Sol; Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit; Philipsburg Boardwalk

Major Sports

Soccer, sailing, track and field, rugby

Cultural Practices

The culture of St Maarten is a mixture of Dutch, French, British, and African heritage. all school children on both sides are taught to be tri-lingual in Dutch, English, and French.

Tipping Guidelines

The Dutch side of the island follows the American style of tipping. Staff depends on tips and there is an expectation that the guest is adding 15% to the check for a tip.

Souvenirs

Dutch porcelain, guavaberry products, flavored liqueurs and wine, spices, perfume, cosmetics

Traditional Cuisine

Callaloo — a thick soup made with greens, pork, onions, okra, thyme, and hot peppers


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