Known as the smallest landmass to consist of two nations, and home of the "Friendly People", St. Maarten is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and sunny clear skies, as diverse as any cosmopolitan city yet as welcoming and familiar as your hometown. Where laid back island energy transforms into vibrant rhythms and finger-licking dining, and where European culture blends so effortlessly with Caribbean flair.

Why St. Maarten is Perfect for Canadian Snowbirds

• Warm, Tropical Climate: Enjoy pleasant temperatures year-round, especially during Canada’s cold winter months, with warm days and cool, comfortable nights.
• Easy Accessibility: Just a 4.5-hour direct flight from Toronto, with multiple weekly connections  available from Canadian cities, making travel convenient.
• Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Stunning beaches, turquoise waters, lush hills, and scenic landscapes offer endless opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
• Vibrant Culture and Cuisine: A unique blend of Dutch and French Caribbean cultures with diverse dining, festivals, and friendly locals that make visitors feel at home.
• Island Hub for Exploration: St. Maarten’s location allows easy day trips and island hopping to nearby gems like Anguilla, St. Barts, St. Eustasius and Saba.
• Variety of Activities: From water sports ,diving and hiking to shopping and cultural tours, there’s lots to keep snowbirds busy.
• Friendly, English-Speaking Environment: English is widely spoken, easing communication and daily living for Canadian visitors.

Local Snowbird Community

St. Maarten offers plenty of opportunities for snowbirds to get involved

St. Maarten is not only a stunning Caribbean destination but also a community rich in stories, resilience, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Snowbirds can engage with the local culture while enjoying all that the island has to offer. 

If you’re passionate about environmental conservation, the Nature Foundation Sint Maarten offers volunteers the chance to participate in early morning beach patrols, monitoring sea turtle nests along the island’s shorelines. This opportunity allows travelers to engage with nature while contributing to the conservation of endangered species, a truly rewarding experience.

Another unique opportunity is volunteering with Perpetual Plastics, a recycling initiative under the EPIC Foundation. Volunteers can help with sorting and repurposing plastic waste, transforming it into eco-friendly products. This initiative supports sustainability efforts on the island while providing a meaningful way to give back.

For more information about how you can get involved, visit Volunteer.sx.

Getting Here

Located just a convenient 4.5-hour direct flight from Toronto and Montreal, St. Maarten is easily accessible for Canadian travellers, with flights from other Canadian cities typically connecting via a US airport hub like Atlanta, Houston or Miami. 

WestJet offers non-stop flights twice weekly for the summer season, and one flight weekly during the Fall. 

In the winter months, Air Transat offers non-stop flights from Toronto and Montreal, beginning in November of each year. Air Canada & WestJet also offer non-stop flights during the winter months from Toronto.

Entry Requirements for Long Stays: If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, a tourist extension application must be completed. Please visit the Sint Maarten Government website for their Residency Permit information. 

Weather - October to April

St. Maarten enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm, humid conditions moderated by refreshing trade winds. 

From December through April, the weather is especially pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging between 20°C and 32°C. During these months, humidity is lower, and cool northeast trade winds provide comfortable, ideal beach weather, with only occasional brief rain showers and partly cloudy days. 

In contrast, the summer months from June to November bring hotter temperatures, often climbing between 35°C to 37°C, accompanied by higher humidity.

Terrain and Landscape

St. Maarten offers a diverse and captivating natural landscape perfect for snowbirds seeking a warm-weather getaway. The island’s terrain features lush, green hills, scenic trails, and stunning coastal views. The center of the island is dotted with gentle peaks and ridges, offering opportunities for hiking and panoramic vistas, while the coastline presents a blend of soft white sand beaches and rugged cliffs.

Surrounded by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, St. Maarten is home to 37 unique white sand beaches, from the lively shores of Maho and Kim Sha to the tranquil waters of Mullet Bay and Philipsburg. 

St. Maarten thrives with tropical flora and fauna, rolling hillsides, and a sun-soaked coastal environment. Its small size makes it easy to explore from mountain to beach in a single day, offering snowbirds a dynamic blend of adventure and relaxation in a picture-perfect Caribbean setting.

Accommodations & Where to Stay

St. Maarten hosts many unique villa locations if you're looking for a long stay winter escape.. You can connect with various property managers online and go through your entire itinerary before your stay. 

Property rentals are designed to accommodate small and large groups with sophisticated layouts and carefully considered constructs. With a wide spectrum of vacation rentals, St. Maarten offers something for everyone regardless of budget, mood, or desired location. From luxurious secluded villas to charming condos right near the island’s hottest spots, live among the locals and learn what “friendly-island living” really is. You can choose condo or apartment rentals that offer amazing views of the hillsides' peaks and valleys, or full houses and villas near the shoreline blessed with the aroma of the sea and the soothing sound of crashing waves massaging the coast and offering visitors the best access to our iconic beaches. 

Condos

Princess Heights

Divi Little Bay

Fourteen at Mullet Bay

Porto Cupecoy

The Cliff

Villa Rentals/Property Rentals.

Sotheby’s St. Maarten

Jennifer’s Vacation Villas

The Property Ink

Sunshine Properties

Coral Beach Club

Island Properties

Century 21 St. Maarten

Remax Island Properties

Island Real Estate Team

Food and Dining

St. Maarten has earned its reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, thanks to the rich and diverse gastronomic heritage of over 80 different nationalities who have long made the island their home. This cultural mosaic has fostered a vibrant culinary scene where fusion flavors from Africa, Europe, and the Americas blend seamlessly, offering snowbirds  a unique and exciting array of dishes to savor.

Local Cuisine and Lo-Lo Food Stands

Scattered throughout the island’s 16 square miles, Lo-Lo’s are small, casual food stands where locals gather to enjoy affordable and authentic meals. These spots serve classic dishes such as barbecued ribs, garlic shrimp, lobster, goat stew, rice and peas, and johnnycakes. Evenings at Lo-Lo’s come alive with music and lively crowds, providing an immersive cultural experience. Notable favorites include The Original Fat Boy Jimmy's BBQ. Another standout is Sexy Beef, celebrated for its Creole-inspired dishes and tropical cocktails served at its well-stocked bar.

International Dining Scene

St. Maarten’s cosmopolitan character shines through its wide variety of international restaurants. Whether you crave Italian, Japanese, Thai, or Chinese cuisine, you’ll find an array of options to suit any taste. Both locals and visitors frequent these establishments, which range from casual eateries to elegant fine dining venues. Highlights include Ocean Lounge at the Holland House Hotel, offering spectacular ocean views paired with a carefully curated wine list and fresh ingredients. For Japanese food lovers, Alina Izakaya Sushi & Sake Bar provides an authentic Izakaya tapas experience in a relaxed, lounge atmosphere accompanied by soothing music. 

Attractions & Sights

From historic landmarks to exciting outdoor adventures, the Dutch side of St. Maarten offers a diverse range of attractions and sights that promise to delight snowbirds and their visiting friends and family throughout the winter season.

1. Maho Beach – Plane Spotting Paradise

No trip to St. Maarten is complete without witnessing the dramatic jet landings at Maho Beach. Watch aircraft glide just overhead as they arrive at Princess Juliana International Airport, a thrill for kids, teens, and aviation enthusiasts alike.

2. Rainforest Adventures & The Flying Dutchman

Located at Rockland Estate, this eco-park features the steepest zipline in the world, The Flying Dutchman. Start by taking the Sky Explorer chairlift up Sentry Hill for breathtaking views, then strap in for the speedy zipline down, before finishing your adventure with a meal at Emilio’s Restaurant.

3. Seaside Nature Park

This family-friendly park offers horseback riding along the beach and through trails, as well as a Discovery Farm with goats, pigs, and other animals. A great choice for multi-generational families wanting nature, fun, and interaction with animals.

4. Emilio Wilson Park & Museum

Nestled in the hills near Cul de Sac, this public park is a peaceful green space with a deep history. Visit the Emilio Wilson Museum, set in a restored plantation home, to learn about St. Maarten’s colonial past and local heritage.

5. Philipsburg Boardwalk & Great Bay Beach

Take a relaxed stroll along the Philipsburg Boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and shaded benches — perfect for an easygoing beach day. Great Bay Beach is just steps away, offering calm waters and soft sand ideal for kids and seniors.

6. The Amazing Race – Philipsburg with Tri-Sport SXM

Explore the capital in a fun and interactive way with this scavenger-style adventure. Solve clues, complete challenges, and discover hidden corners of Philipsburg. 

7. Jet Ski Tour with Blue Bubbles SXM

Cruise through Simpson Bay Lagoon on a guided Jet Ski tour with Blue Bubbles. This 90-minute adventure lets you see mega-yachts, marine life, and stunning coastline views.

8. Sunset Catamaran Cruise – Aqua Mania Adventures

End the day in classic Caribbean style aboard the Lambada Catamaran. Enjoy a scenic cruise with an open bar, light snacks, and island music as the sun sets over the coast, a romantic and relaxing outing for couples or visiting guests.

9. Dive St. Maarten – Underwater Exploration

Whether you’re certified or new to diving, Dive St. Maarten offers guided dives to shipwrecks, reefs, and marine habitats teeming with turtles, rays, and colorful fish. For a snorkelling experience to remember, check out the underwater story of St. Maarten at Under SXM, the first underwater sculpture gallery in the Caribbean. A memorable experience for adventure-loving snowbirds.

10. Simpson Bay Nightlife

After sunset, Simpson Bay becomes the island’s nightlife hub. Enjoy bar hopping, live music, salsa dancing, or just laid-back beach bar vibes, a great way to experience the Dutch side’s festive and friendly spirit.

Culture and Entertainment

St. Maarten is a vibrant tapestry of color, creativity, and Caribbean culture. From captivating street art and hands-on workshops to world-class festivals and historic museums, the island offers snowbirds and visitors a rich array of cultural experiences.

1. Vibrant Mural Art in Philipsburg
Explore the colorful mural art scattered throughout Philipsburg, showcasing the island’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. These outdoor galleries provide perfect photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of local stories, from the Great Salt Pond to abstract geometric designs. The murals are part of the popular Color Me SXM project, which supports local artists and promotes St. Maarten’s cultural heritage.

2. Hands-On Experiences
For those wanting to get creative, Inspired selfie in Cole Bay offers sip & paint events. Notable venues include the Local Art Gift Shop, and galleries featuring works by local artists like Roland Richardson and Ruby Bute. These stores are a great way to connect with the island’s artistic community and create your own souvenirs.

3. Art in the Park at Emilio Wilson Park
Visit this open-air market to discover and purchase unique local crafts, paintings, and handmade goods. This vibrant setting is perfect for browsing a variety of art styles and supporting local artisans.

4. St. Maarten Carnival (April)
Experience the island’s largest cultural festival, a lively two-week celebration filled with Caribbean music, dancing, and colorful parades. Carnival culminates with the burning of King Momo and features over 50 food vendors offering traditional dishes like Crab Back, Oyster Soup, Johnny Cakes, and inventive treats such as macaroni served in a cone.

5. Fish Fry Events
A quintessential Dutch-side tradition, the Simpson Bay Food Court hosts popular Fish Fry events on Saturdays, featuring freshly prepared seafood like stuffed crab, fried or grilled snapper, codfish salad, and conch fritters. Fish Fry gatherings also take place at the Spaceless Community Garden and during special celebrations such as Fish Day in French Cul-de-Sac, honoring the island’s fishermen.

6. Live Local Music Scene
Every week, bars and restaurants across the Dutch side host live music featuring local drummers, bassists, and bands playing authentic island rhythms. Enjoy the laid-back vibe, dance along with the crowd, and immerse yourself in St. Maarten’s musical heritage.

7. St. Maarten National Heritage Museum
 This museum offers a compelling journey through the island’s history, from prehistoric times to the colonial era. It provides a comprehensive overview of the cultural and historical events that shaped the Dutch side.

8. Emilio Wilson Museum
Located within the Rainforest Adventure Park, this museum highlights the legacy of the Sentry Plantation (later Golden Rock Industry). It tells the story of Trace Wilson, a woman born into slavery, and her descendant Emilio Wilson, who played a significant role in the island’s plantation history.

9. The Yoga Guy Movie Exhibit
For film and art enthusiasts, the exhibit founded by Nick Maley, the artist behind the creation of Yoda from Star Wars, offers a fascinating glimpse into Hollywood special effects artistry. Visitors can learn about the craftsmanship involved in making iconic characters from franchises like Star Wars, Terminator, Alien, and more.

Festivals & Events

St. Maarten is more than just sunshine and sand. It's a celebration of culture, music, and Caribbean flavor. A regularly updated weekly events and specials calendar can be found here, to help snowbirds experience the friendly island atmosphere all season long. From world-class sailing to EDM spectacles and culinary festivals, here are the top festivals and events between October and April that snowbirds can look forward to:

1. St. Maarten Day – November 11

This national celebration honors the island’s history and unity. While not detailed in full, it’s an important cultural event with festivities on both the Dutch and French sides — a meaningful time for visitors to connect with the island’s roots.

2. Heineken Regatta – March

This world-renowned sailing event attracts over 20,000 spectators and participants from around the globe. Enjoy four days of world-class racing in a high-energy atmosphere, best experienced on a boat charter. At night, the Regatta Village comes alive with food, cold beer, and live music from local and international artists and DJs.

3. SXM Festival – March 

One of the Caribbean’s premier electronic music events, SXM Festival transforms St. Maarten into a multi-venue celebration of EDM. Expect beach parties, villa gatherings, underground nightclub sets, poolside sessions, and even a Satellite Party atop the island’s highest mountain with 360-degree ocean views. The Moobar rooftop in Maho adds to the festival’s electric energy.

4. St. Maarten Carnival – April

The biggest cultural event of the year! From mid-April, the Dutch side erupts with calypso, Soca, reggae, and dancehall. The Carnival Village on Pond Island is the heart of the action — home to food booths, concerts, parades, and parties. Don’t leave without trying a local favorite dish and snapping a photo with the Carnival icon, Pork Chop.

Sporting Events

Experience the Caribbean Sea with these water-based activities:

• Red Baron Charters: A sailing operator offering wellness-themed excursions that may include yoga, light fitness, or simply a relaxing cruise.
• Snorkeling and Kayaking: Numerous Dutch-side operators offer guided trips through coral reefs, mangroves, and calm bays perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Fitness Classes and Community Events

Join the island’s active community with fun and inclusive events:

• SXM Road Runners: A local running group hosting weekly group runs, seasonal races, and larger events such as the SXM Marathon.
• Island Rebel Yoga: Located in Cole Bay, Island Rebel Yoga offers yoga classes for all levels and walks of life in a safe space where you can come to release, unwind and deeply connect with yourself.
• Joga: is a Pilates, Dance and Yoga studio offering classes 7 days a week in the studio, or private sessions at the location of your choice. Their boutique offers a range of yoga clothing, accessories and lifestyle products, as well as kombucha, coffee and cold-pressed juice.
• Beach Boot Camps: Open-air fitness sessions held at beaches like Mullet Bay and Little Bay, perfect for enjoying the scenery while staying in shape.

SXM Boardwalk Triathlon (June): Held on the Philipsburg Boardwalk, this triathlon offers various race categories, including Try-A-Tri, Sprint, and Olympic distances.

Shopping

St Maarten is renowned for its duty-free shopping, making it an ideal destination for retail therapy. Prices you see are prices you pay—without hidden taxes. While the official currency is the Caribbean Guilder, American dollars and Euros are widely accepted across businesses. Currency exchange is available at local banks, but travellers often find better rates when exchanging money at local shops.

Philipsburg: The Heart of Shopping
The island’s capital, Philipsburg, boasts a charming colonial brick-style layout with palm-lined streets that beckon visitors to explore its vibrant shopping districts—Front Street and Back Street.

Front Street is the premier shopping destination, offering a delightful array of duty-free boutiques where shoppers can find everything from luxury goods and premium perfumes to authentic local handicrafts. These unique souvenirs make perfect keepsakes to commemorate your St. Maarten journey. After an exciting day of shopping, unwind with a delicious dinner and cocktails at the Holland House Beach Hotel, a notable landmark located on the capital’s lively beachfront.

Along Front Street, you’ll find luxury brands like Cartier, Rolex, Dior, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren, alongside duty-free shops selling electronics, premium alcohol, tobacco, and other coveted items. The Guavaberry Emporium is also located here, offering the famous Guavaberry Rum and related sauces and spices, ideal for those wanting a taste of local flavor.

Just a block away, Back Street caters to budget-conscious shoppers with vibrant fashion boutiques offering clothing, handbags, and shoes—perfect for picking up last-minute essentials or stylish beachwear.

Support Local Brands and Markets
Beyond the malls and boutiques, St. Maarten is rich with local crafts and artisanal products:

• Purchase original artwork from local artists at the Local Art Gift Shop in Philipsburg.
• Sample handcrafted spirits at Topper’s Rhum distillery in Cole Bay or enjoy locally made botanicals for skin and hair care by St. Maarten Nectar.
• Discover fashion designed by local talents like Jolie Duzon or find unique handcrafted pieces at OneOfTwo.

Philipsburg Market and Artisan Stalls
The Philipsburg Market is a vibrant hub offering custom-made jewelry, clothing, and handmade crafts. Situated near the Court House, the local arts and crafts market is an excellent spot to pick up authentic souvenirs that capture the spirit of the island.

Fitness and Outdoor Recreation

St. Maarten's Dutch side offers a diverse range of outdoor and fitness activities, perfect for snowbirds looking to stay active and engaged in a tropical paradise. From scenic hikes and cycling tours to wellness classes and water sports, there's something for everyone.

1. Hiking Trails

Explore the island's natural beauty through its well-maintained hiking trails:

• Guana Bay to Natural Pool: A moderate 2.6 km coastal hike that leads to a stunning natural pool, ideal for swimming, photography, and relaxing in a secluded setting.
• Sentry Hill Trail: This challenging 2.6 km trail climbs to one of the island’s highest points, offering panoramic views of both the Dutch side and the surrounding sea.
• Seaside Nature Park Trails: Located near Cay Bay, this eco-park features mild to moderate trails and guided tours that introduce visitors to the island's local flora, fauna, and coastal views.

2. Cycling Adventures

Discover the Dutch side of the island on two wheels:

• Tri-Sport SXM Tours: Based in Simpson Bay, they offer guided e-bike adventures such as the "Gem of St. Maarten" and "Tour de Lagoon," focused on scenic spots and historical landmarks on the Dutch side.
• Self-Guided Rides: Rent a bike and explore routes like the Bellevue Trail or cruise coastal roads for a relaxed or more challenging experience.

3. Ziplining and Eco-Tours

For adrenaline seekers, the Dutch side has exciting eco-tour options:

• Rainforest Adventures: Located at Sentry Hill, this park features “The Flying Dutchman,” the world’s steepest zipline, and the Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlift, offering 360° views of the island.
• Seaside Nature Park: In addition to its trails, the park offers horseback riding and nature-based tours, great for families and nature lovers.

4. Exercise & Sports Facilities

Stay active with premium sports facilities:

• Be Sports in Maho is a Multisports and entertainment facility, featuring 3 semi-panoramic Padel courts, 2 pickleball courts, 1 soccer field and sports shop.
• The Country Club Port de Plaisance has a gym facility with three large exercise rooms and two classrooms featuring Spinning Classes and more. They also have a full-service sports facility featuring tennis courts, lessons, and recreational play for all levels.
• SXM Padel Club offers coaching, tournaments, open matches and court bookings for Padel enthusiasts

5. Yoga and Wellness

Rejuvenate your mind and body in serene island settings:

• Island Rebel Yoga: Offers daily yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes in outdoor and studio settings across the Dutch side.
• Wai Wild Gym: Located in Simpson Bay, this outdoor gym combines nature, fitness, and recovery options like ice baths and natural equipment for a unique workout experience.
• Joga: The Joga team offers indoor & outdoor classes 7 days a week in yoga, Pilates mat & reformer, meditation, dance and more. They also offer private sessions in studio or at the location of your choice. 

Health Care and Medical Facilities

St. Maarten has 19 private medical clinics and 12 pharmacies on the southern side of the island.

Hospital 

Medical Center of St. Maarten (SMMC)

Phone: (721)-543-1111

Find information on the medical services available for International Visitors at the SMMC

St. Maarten Ambulance Services

Ambulance Medical Services of St. Maarten

Phone:  (721) 542-2111 or 912

FOR DIVERS:

Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber. If you require treatment for decompression illness you will have to go to Saba or Guadeloupe.

Local Excursions

For snowbirds spending extended time in St. Maarten, a luxurious day trip to Anguilla is highly recommended. Just a short ferry ride or quick flight away, Anguilla is famous for its pristine white beaches, upscale villas, and gourmet dining options. Whether you take a public ferry from Marigot Marina or a private charter from Princess Juliana International Airport, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax by crystal-clear waters and indulge in world-class cuisine, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Saba offers an unforgettable getaway. This small island is home to Mt. Scenery, the highest peak in the Netherlands, which provides hiking trails with breathtaking views. Saba is also renowned for its marine park, making it a prime spot for diving and whale watching. You can reach Saba by a quick 20-minute flight or opt for a ferry ride from Simpson Bay, allowing plenty of time to explore its rich ecosystem and tranquil environment.

For those who crave a touch of glamour, St. Barthélemy, or St. Barts, is the ultimate destination. Known for its elegance and exclusivity, this French Caribbean Island attracts celebrities and influencers from around the world. Whether arriving by ferry or a short flight from St. Maarten, visitors can enjoy luxurious beaches, designer boutiques in Gustavia, and exquisite dining experiences. St. Barts combines natural beauty with upscale charm, making it a favorite getaway for those wanting a taste of the high life.

Closer to home, the islands of Pinel and Tintamarre provide excellent day-trip options for outdoor enthusiasts. Pinel Island is easily accessible by ferry or kayak and is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent seaside dining. Tintamarre, an uninhabited island reachable only by private boat, offers pristine shores and turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling or even overnight camping. Both islands showcase the natural beauty surrounding St. Martin and provide a peaceful retreat from the more tourist-heavy areas.

Lastly, for travellers interested in exploring beyond the immediate neighbors, a mini-Caribbean cruise departing from Philipsburg is a fantastic option. These cruises often include stops at nearby islands such as St. Kitts, Nevis, and Antigua, allowing visitors to experience a range of cultures, historic sites, and scenic landscapes within a few days. Combining relaxation and adventure, these multi-island cruises provide a convenient way to see more of the Caribbean while enjoying the comforts of a small ship.

Cruise Ports

St. Maarten is one of the Caribbean’s busiest and most famous cruise ports, attracting a wide variety of international cruise liners. The port welcomes everything from massive ships featuring pools, golf courses, and shopping malls to smaller, luxury boutique vessels offering 5-star service.

Two Modern Piers:

• Pier 1 and Pier 2 accommodate up to four cruise ships simultaneously.
• Pier 2, opened in 2009, can host the world’s largest Genesis-class cruise ships (over 220,000 gross tons, 6,000+ passengers and crew).

Efficient Passenger Processing: Pier 2 has two passenger screening booths that speed up disembarkation and arrival procedures.

Harbour Point Village:

• Located right at the port, designed in classic Philipsburg architectural style.
• Features duty-free shops, souvenir markets, bars, and restaurants.
• Visitors are welcomed with live steel pan music to set a tropical mood.

Proximity to Philipsburg: The island’s capital is just a 15-minute walk from the port.

Transportation Options:

• Over 100 taxis are available at the terminal for quick transport anywhere on the island.
• Water taxis run along the Philipsburg waterfront, stopping at Captain Hodge Wharf, Walter Williams Jetty, and Bobby’s Marina.
• Water taxi unlimited ride tickets available for $6 per day.
• Tour buses also pick up and drop off passengers directly at the port.

Tour & Excursion Access: Most tours and excursion pickups occur at or near Harbour Point Village, making it easy for cruise passengers to join activities quickly.

Safety

 St. Maarten is a safe and accessible destination. For the latest updates on travel to the country, please consult travel.gc.ca.

Cost of Living

Groceries:

St Maarten has a lot of small grocery shops where you can find your daily needs, but you will also find some big supermarket brands on the island.

With their several locations on St Maarten, you will find the international supermarket brand Carrefour. They have a huge assortment of liquors, beverages, cigars and cigarettes, dairy products, bakery section, cleaning items and a lot more--The main store is in the Philipsburg area, while other stores can be found in Cole Bay, Porto Cupecoy and Jordan Village.

Cost.U.Less is another big supermarket in the Philipsburg Area. They offer a wide variety of grocery and general merchandise items.

Veranda Market and Bistro is a chic, spacious market with an irresistible bistro and outdoor bar that feature incredible views of the ocean, Dawn Beach and dramatic sunsets.

Phone Plans & Internet

Telem or FLOWBANK offer phone and internet plans; you may rent a phone or buy a chip for your phone through these companies.

Additional Information

Pet Policy: 

If you are planning to enter with or import a live animal into St Maarten, then you must acquire permission in the form of the Animal Movement Permit. This permit verifies to transport agencies and port authorities that the animal’s health status has been reviewed by the competent authorities in Sint Maarten and has met the requirements of Sint Maarten’s relevant legislation, thus, can be granted unhindered passage through a port of entry within the jurisdiction of Sint Maarten.

• The main documents required are the following:
• A digital passport copy belonging to the individual accompanying or importing the animal.
• Travel itinerary or consignment issued by the airline, shipping, or travel agency.
• International veterinary health certificate.
• Proof of Rabies vaccination (dogs, cats, and ferrets).
• Additional documents may be required depending on the type of entry and species of animal.

See the Official Website Government of Sint Maarten for more information.

Electricity: Electricity in St. Maarten (Dutch side) is the same as in Canada with a 110 voltage at 50 Hz standard. Standard plugs and appliances are compatible too. 

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST); St. Maarten does not observe Daylight Savings Time

Languages spoken: English, Dutch, French 

Banking & Banking Hours: Several major banks operate in the Dutch part of St. Martin (Sint Maarten). These include Banco di Caribe, CIBC First Caribbean, PSB Bank, RBC, Republic Bank, and Windward Islands Bank. In addition to these, Windward Islands Bank also has a presence in St. Maarten. Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Some banks are open on Saturday mornings.  There are 24-hour ATMs available.  Credit cards are widely accepted.

Driving: Driving is easy on the island, and motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road. Renting a car is a cost-effective and easy way to get around the island, with rental offices located outside the airport and in popular locations like Maho and Simpson Bay. The Dutch/French border is marked by roadside monuments. Traffic in locations such as Philipsburg and Simpson Bay can get heavy around rush hour, and at the opening times of the Simpson Bay bridge

See why Canadian snowbirds love St. Maarten