Half French and half Dutch, St. Martin/Sint Maarten cruise port is one of the Caribbean's most diverse and interesting islands. The Dutch capital Philipsburg is a delightful warren of narrow streets called steegjies. Here you will find interesting shops and leafy courtyard cafes. Start your exploration at Wathey Square, which is home to a colourful market. If you would prefer to enjoy a little French 'je ne sais quoi', take an island tour to the pretty French capital Marigot. It's worth visiting for its colourful markets, lovely cafe-lined waterfront and the chic boutiques of Marina Port La Royale, where you can pick up unusual jewellery and leather goods. Or spend your day on a catamaran trip from Philipsburg for fabulous deep-sea snorkelling with lunch.
The official languages spoken in St Maarten are Dutch and English
The currency in St Maarten is the Euro (EUR) on the French side and Netherlands Antilles Florin (NAF) on the Dutch side. The US dollar (USD) is also commonly used.
1.5ltr bottle of water = 1.30 € (approx. £1.10)
Coffee (from a restaurant) = 3.80 € (approx. £3.25)
0.5ltr Domestic Beer from Draught = 2.65 € (approx. £2.25)
Three course meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant = 96.25 € (approx. £81.50)