Essential Information
US, Canadian and EU visitors will not find any Caribbean island which requires an entry visa, although US visitors require special permission to visit Cuba. Travel insurance is recommended for any trip to the Caribbean, particularly emergency evacuation coverage in case airlift is required. Check also that insurance policies cover so-called dangerous activities such as scuba diving.
ST MAARTEN
Half of the smallest island in the world to be shared by two sovereign nations (the other half, St. Martin, is French) St. Maarten is a densely populated playground of casinos, restaurants and beaches. Also a major sailing and mega yacht destination.
Area: 13 sq miles
Population: 39,689
Capital: Philipsburg
Political: Part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but autonomous since 2010.
Official website: www.visitstmaarten.com
Indigenous name: Soualiga
Currency Official currency is the Guilder (NaFl.) but US dollar used everywhere
Passport Visitors need valid passport.
Visa Needs Visas required from some Caribbean countries, but not EU or US.
Emergency Health Care St. Maarten Medical Center, but serious cases flown to Puerto Rico.
Banks & ATMS. Plenty of ATMs distributing Dollars and Euros, but Visa card use not that widespread.
Free WIFI Locations. Hotels, bars and fast food outlets.
Internet Cafes. Lots of cybercafés.
Cell Phones access/Dialing code +721
Safety Tips. Petty crime an ongoing issue. Frequent thefts from cars parked at Mullet Bay.
Departure Tax $30
