Getting Around Sint Maarten
As with most Caribbean countries you
do not need a visa to visit Sint Maarten
if you are a US national or a citizen of any EU country. All you
require is a valid passport to enter along with a roundtrip or return
air ticket. The Juliana Airport is the main international airport
on the island and is located at Simpson Bay. This airport is also
a major hub for airlines such as Winair that fly onwards to St.
Barths, Saba, Anguilla and
many other nearby islands.
Some major Caribbean carriers that land at the Juliana Airport are the Air Antilles Express, which is based in Guadeloupe, American Eagle that files here from San Juan, the Caribbean Star from Antigua and BWIA that flies here from the Port of Spain in Trinidad. One thing to keep in mind is that things at the Juliana Airport move rather slowly so it is best to get here at least three hours before your flight can take off.
If you like you can also get to Sint Maarten by cruise ship. Over 12 major cruise ships dock at Philipsburg with plenty of day trippers come ashore to indulge in some duty-free shopping and enjoy the wonderful beaches on hand as well.
Ferry services also come to Sint Maarten from Anguilla, St
Barths and Saba. The ferry fares
are quite cheap and affordable making the ride a cost effective
solution for those who want to spend their money in the casinos
out here.
One of the best ways to explore Sint Maarten is by bicycle. Inexpensive and economical, you can rent a bike and tour the entire of Sint Maarten in a couple of days. Buses are cheap and found all over the island. Buses are a great way to travel if you don’t mind the crowds, and give you the opportunity to get to know the locals. Taxis are also on hand with government regulated fares posted in each cab. However, keep in mind that these rates go up once the sunsets. To call for a cab dial 147 day or night.
If you plan on visiting Sint Maarten with your family, renting
a car is a good idea. There are plenty of rental agency offices at
the Juliana Airport including Avis, Budget and Hertz. Remember that
driving in Sint Maarten is on the right
side of the road.
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