Sint Maarten is an island in the Caribbean Sea that is split between two countries: the French territory of Saint Martin and the Dutch constituent country of Sint Maarten. The Dutch side of the island has an area of approximately 34 square kilometers and a population of around 42,000 people.

The official languages are Dutch and English, and the currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder. However, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted. The island's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with the majority of visitors coming from North America and Europe.

Sint Maarten has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, and there are a variety of beaches and other outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy. The island is also known for its lively nightlife and casinos.

Telephone Code
590

Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 911, 542-2111; Fire: 911,120; Police: 911, 542-2111

Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.

Climate
Temperature averages 27-29°C (80.6 - 84.2°F) all year long; low humidity, gentle trade winds, brief, intense rain showers; hurricane season stretches from July to November

Currency (Code)
Euros (EUR)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
220 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): C, E

Major Languages
French, English, Dutch, French Patois, Spanish, Papiamento (dialect of Netherlands Antilles)

Major Religions
Roman Catholic, Jehovah's Witness, Protestant, Hindu

Potable Water
Yes

International Driving Permit
Suggested

Road Driving Side
Right

Tourist Destinations
Marigot; Pinel Island; Little Bay Beach; Orient Bay Beach; Mullet Bay; Kim Sha Beach

Major Sports
Soccer, sailing, tack and field, rugby

Cultural Practices
Making a circle with the thumb and index finger can be taken as an insult.

Tipping Guidelines
On the French side of the island a service charge is included in the price of a meal. Most guests tip by rounding up and leave a few euros.

Souvenirs
Flavored liqueurs, rum, and wine; guavaberry products; spices; perfumes and cosmetics

Traditional Cuisine
Conch & Dumplings — conch (sea snail) tenderized and pressure-cooked with dumplings, herbs, and spices; the sauce from the conch and dumplings is used as gravy to eat with rice, vegetables, or johnnycakes (pancakes made with cornmeal)