Saint Martin Travel Guide (Lesser Antilles/Caribbean/North America)

Introduction to Saint Martin
List of Places to Visit in Saint Martin
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Saint Martin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Martin
Best Things to Do in Saint Martin: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Martin
Food and Drink Scene of Saint Martin
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Saint Martin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Saint Martin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Saint Martin
Best Time to Visit Saint Martin
Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Martin
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Saint Martin
- Health in Saint Martin
Getting to Saint Martin: Transportation Options and Logistics
- Airports Near Saint Martin
- Other Options
How to Get Around in Saint Martin
Where to Go Next from Saint Martin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Saint Martin

Saint Martin is a beautiful island nation located in the Caribbean. The island is divided into two parts - the French and the Dutch - both of which are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The French side, Saint-Martin, is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, while the Dutch side, Sint Maarten, is popular for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and beaches.

List of Places to Visit in Saint Martin

If you’re planning a trip to Saint Martin, there are plenty of places you must include in your itinerary. Here are some of the most popular and culturally significant attractions you should visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Musée de Saint-Martin: A small museum located in Marigot, which houses a collection of historical artifacts and photographs of Saint Martin.
Fort Amsterdam: A historical fortress that dates back to the early 17th century. It was built by the Dutch to protect their colony from the Spanish and is located on the Dutch side of the island.
Marigot Market: A bustling outdoor market located in the center of Marigot, where you can buy fresh produce, fish, spices, and souvenirs.
Grand Case: A charming fishing village on the French side of the island, known for its excellent restaurants, art galleries, and craft markets.

Natural Attractions of Saint Martin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pinel Island: A small uninhabited island located just off the coast of Saint Martin, popular for its crystal clear waters, snorkeling and stunning views of Saint Martin.
Loterie Farm: An eco-tourism park located in the lush hills of Pic Paradis, which is known for its zipline rides, hiking and mountain biking trails, and a natural spring-fed pool.
Orient Bay: A stunning beach on the French side of the island, known for its white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere.
The Butterfly Farm: A unique attraction located in the French town of Grand Case, where you can learn about the life cycle of butterflies and even hold them in your hands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Martin

Saint Martin is great for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes for exploring the island:

Pic Paradis: Is one of the highest peaks on the island, with several hiking and walking trails that lead to breathtaking panoramic views of Saint Martin. The trails range from easy to moderate to difficult, making it suitable for all levels.
The Salt Pond Trail: A nature trail that runs through the salt pond and wetlands on the Dutch side of the island, where visitors can see a variety of bird and plant species. It is a moderate trail that takes 2-3 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Saint Martin: Activities and Tours

Here are some must-do activities and tours in Saint Martin:

Visit the beaches: Saint Martin has several beaches, including Orient Bay, Maho Beach, and Baie Rouge. These are perfect spots for swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Take a sunset cruise: Take a relaxing sunset cruise around the island with refreshments, dinner, and entertainment.
Go on a food tour: Go on a gastronomic adventure and sample gourmet cuisine, both local and international, on this food tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Martin

If you have a week to spend in Saint Martin, consider following this itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Relax and explore the beaches
2	Hiking at Pic Paradis and visit Oasis
3	Visit Loterie Farm, and go ziplining and hiking
4	Visit the French side and explore the colonial architecture in Marigot and the beautiful Grand Case
5	Explore the Dutch side, St. Maarten, and indulge in the casinos, nightlife, and shopping
6	Day trip to Pinel Island or a guided tour excursion
7	Relax and enjoy a sunset cruise around the island

Food and Drink Scene of Saint Martin

Saint Martin has a rich culinary culture, and tourists are often spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink options. The island prides itself on its Creole heritage, which offers a taste of African, European, and Caribbean flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Conch fritters: A popular traditional dish in Saint Martin, made of deep-fried conch meat with a crispy coating.
Accra: A sweet and savory fritter made of flour, salt, pepper, and shredded codfish.
Stuffed crab: A local favorite made with seasoned crab meat that’s stuffed into a crab shell and baked until golden brown.
Lobster: A must-have if you visit in the season when they are harvested, the lobsters in Saint Martin are some of the best in the Caribbean.

Local Beverages

Rum Punch: A fruity rum based drink made with various tropical juices and a dash of rum.
Mauby: A popular non-alcoholic drink made by steeping the bark of the mauby tree in water and adding sugar and spices.
Guavaberry Liqueur: A traditional liqueur made with guavaberry berries, sugar, and rum, which has been produced on the island for over 300 years.

Where to Stay in Saint Martin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saint Martin has a wide range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses offering comfortable accommodations. Here are some popular options:

Grand Case Beach Club: An all-inclusive resort with a private beach, spa, and restaurant, located on the French side facing Anguilla.
The Village: A small boutique hotel in the heart of Grand Case, known for its modern amenities, friendly staff, and proximity to shops and restaurants.
Hostel Tangara A hostel located on the Dutch side, with dorm beds and private rooms, which are clean, comfortable, and affordable.

What to Buy in Saint Martin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Guavaberry Liqueur: A bottle of Guavaberry Liqueur, the traditional liqueur made with guavaberry berries, sugar, and rum, is an excellent gift for someone who loves to collect unique liqueurs.
Mahogany Woodwork: Mahogany wood is one of the most popular exports from Saint Martin, with artisan pieces ranging from small souvenirs to large furniture items to decorate your home.
Local Art and Crafts: Grand Case is a mecca for local artisans, with handmade crafts ranging from pottery to jewelry to paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint Martin

Saint Martin is home to a vibrant and diverse population that has shaped its culture over the years. The island boasts a unique blend of French and Dutch customs, African and Creole influences. The local language is a Creole dialect influenced by French, Dutch, and African languages.

Best Time to Visit Saint Martin

The best time to visit Saint Martin is from May to June or November to mid-December, when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. Avoid visiting during peak season (December to April) when the rates are high, and the places are crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Martin

Do:

Respect the culture and traditions of the locals.
Visit both sides of the island to experience the unique culture and ambiance of each.
Try the local delicacies and drinks.

Don’t:

Sunbathe topless outside designated areas.
Litter on the beaches or anywhere else on the island.
Wear camouflage clothing, as it is illegal on the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint Martin

Saint Martin is a relatively safe place to visit, but tourists should take precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime, such as keeping valuables secure or avoiding unlit or secluded areas at night.

Health in Saint Martin

Tourists should take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue fever and Chikungunya. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water, as tap water may not be safe for drinking, and follow food hygiene practices.

Getting to Saint Martin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saint Martin

Saint Martin is served by Princess Juliana International Airport, which is located on the Dutch side, and L’Espérance Airport, which is located in Grand Case on the French side.

Other Options

Ferries connect Saint Martin to nearby islands like St. Barts, Anguilla, and Saba.

How to Get Around in Saint Martin

Taxis are readily available, and buses also operate to major destinations on both sides of the island. However, car rentals are recommended for those who wish to explore the island at their pace.

Where to Go Next from Saint Martin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Saint Martin is close to many nearby destinations that are worth visiting, such as:

St. Barts: Saint Barthélemy, or St. Barts, is a beautiful island with stunning beaches, excellent dining, and luxury shopping.
Anguilla: A laid-back island with crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and flourishing music and arts scene.
Saba: Known as the “Unspoiled Queen,” Saba is a small island with a unique charm, scenic views, and excellent diving spots.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Saint Martin is a unique island with a distinctive blend of French and Dutch cultures, offering plenty to do for visitors from all walks of life. The island offers a truly unforgettable experience with its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. By using this comprehensive tour guide, you will be able to plan a memorable trip to Saint Martin.