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
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
