St. Martin

Climate

St. Martin experiences a warm climate year round combined with cooling tradewinds. Summer temperatures average between 79 and 89 degrees and winter temperatures average between 72 and 82 degrees. December through May is considered the dry season while June through November is considered the more humid season. Hurricanes can occur anytime between June and November, with the most likely time being in September and October.

Currency

The official currency on the French side is the Euro and the official currency on the Dutch side is the Florin. However, the US dollar is accepted everywhere on the island as are credit cards and traveler's checks.

Fast Facts

Capital: Marigot
Time Difference: One hour ahead of EST during winter; EST in summer
Nationality: French and Dutch
Entry requirements: Valid Passport
Electrical units: 220 volts on the French side and 110 volts on the Dutch side
Water: We recommend drinking bottled water
Cars: All foreign licenses are valid; drive on right side of the road
Telephone: To call the US, dial 001 plus area code and number
Population (French side): 35,000
Population (Dutch side): 35,000
Land Area: 37 square miles; St. Martin (French), is 21 sq. miles and St. Maarten (Dutch) is 16 sq. miles

Language

The northern part of the island belongs to the French and the southern part of the island belongs to the Dutch. On French St. Martin the official language is French but English is understood everywhere and widely spoken. On Dutch St. Maarten both English and Dutch are spoken.

Telecommunications

The majority of St. Martin villas offer internet service. Bring a laptop as some villas do not have computers. All villas have phones. A barring service is in place on some villa phones for international calls. Credit cards (Visa/MC/AMX) can be used for long distance dialing.