The picturesque island of Saint Martin (French) or Sint Maarten (Dutch) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Located in the northeast part of the Caribbean archipelago, St Martin has a geographical area of 87 sq kilometers. The total area is divided into 60:40 ratios between the Collectivity of French and the Dutch Territory respectively. This division is the main cause of cultural diversity in the island which perhaps is an additional attraction for the tourists visiting the island for its spectacular natural beauty and a range of exciting fun-filled activities to enjoy in the bay water and on the beach.
When To Visit
With an average temperature of 27 °C, bright sun shining year-round, and clear blue sky above the island is the most pleasant place to live in. However, the best time to visit the island is from mid-April to mid-December when the weather is a lot cooler and drier. During the period from May to October, the weather becomes humid and there are chances of storms and hurricanes in the coastal areas.
How To Get There
The island’s main airport – Princess Juliana International Airport is directly connected by flights to and from the US. It acts as a major gateway for the neighboring islands of Leeward including Anguilla, Saba, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Kitts, Nevis, and Sint Eustatius which are popular for day trips from the main island. The French side also has an airport called Grand Case Airport, which is used for regional and private flights.
Where To Stay?
Options are aplenty when it comes to finding accommodation in St Martin. The booming tourism industry awaits you with a variety of accommodation options ranging from hotel, condo, B&B to self-catering holiday home to a Caribbean beachfront rental. The cost of accommodation depends on the type of accommodation, its size, location, and facilities offered. Those who love vacationing with family and friends find vacation rentals cost-effective and more convenient than hotels. The popular Dawn Beach on the Dutch side is home to some well serviced Caribbean beachfront rentals as well as 5-star hotels and condominiums. However, one should choose accommodation based on his budget and preferences to keep away all worries and hassles during travel.
How To Explore The Tropical Beach Paradise?
Hotels have their own travel desks. You can also contact independent travel agencies conducting day trips and tours regularly in the Caribbean islands. If you wish to book Caribbean beachfront rental booking via a reputed rental agency can also get you rental cars on the reservation. The best way to explore the tropical beach paradise is to get acquainted with the local culture to feel the aura of a vibrant place such as St Martin.
Take a guided tour of the island in the air-conditioned car; enjoy picturesque tropical landscapes, beachside activities, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, boating, and more. Visit the Butterfly Farm and catch the birds-eye-view of the island from Pic du Paradis, the highest point of St Martin. Eat at the local restaurants, taste the local cuisine and drinks and enjoy duty-free shopping in the town.