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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does St Martin Reservation Center offer?
A: St Martin Reservation Center is a leading vacation and villa rental specialist for the island of St Martin. We offer expertise on accommodations and island information to our guests to plan the perfect vacation. We believe that we offer a incredible value to our clientele by saving them time in the search for St Martin accommodations and amenities. The properties we represent were carefully screened to maximize the experience and satisfaction of our clients. We also offer concierge services.
Q: What are the entry requirements for travel to St Maarten?
A: As of January 8, 2007, US citizens that travel by air to St Maarten are required to have a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document. As of January 1, 2008, visitors traveling by sea, may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. This legislation is still pending. Click here for the US government travel regulations regarding the Caribbean.If you are traveling from other countries, please visit the following link for further detailed information. If you are still confused or can't find your answer than please contact your airline or cruise line for further information.
Q: Do I need an electrical converter?
A: Depends on where you stay. If you stay on the Dutch side then you will NOT need a converter. The Dutch electrical grid uses the 110V standard. The French side utilizes the European standard of 220V so guests staying on the French side may need a converter.Many of the French villas provide converters so be sure to ask.
Q: Should I rent a car?
A: Yes. We highly recommend renting a car. A rental car dramatically broadens your experience on St. Martin. The island has many beautiful beaches, shopping areas, and indelible restaurants that are a must to visit. The public transportation system is not convenient and could lead to a frustrating experience. The island is easy to circumnavigate since there is only one main road. You can get around the whole island in about an hour depending on traffic conditions. We offer rental car reservations on St Martin that have been specifically negotiated to offer the best value for our guests.
Q: When is Hurricane Season?
A: Hurricane season officially starts June 1, the main threats to the island usually occur during September and early October. Late October and November are usually safe to travel.St Martin was spared from any significant storms this past year.For up to the minute information regarding tropical storms and hurricanes, please visit the National Hurricane Center website.
Q: When is the best time to travel?
A: It depends on what you are seeking. If you want to see the A-List celebrities and be in the mix of the ultra-rich then the Holiday Season or February are the best times to go. The island is crowded at this time but you will be amazed with the incredible yachts and private planes. For the value oriented, late April, May, June and November are the best periods. You get to enjoy low season rates and the weather is great with the island is still catering to visitors like it is high season. Solitude and great values can be had for travel in August, September, and October.
Q: Where are the best beaches?
A: Opinions vary dramatically on this subject. In our opinion, Long Bay beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on St. Martin for those who love natural beauty and calm waters. Orient Beach is the most popular and the best recognized in the Caribbean. There are numerous restaurants, water sports, and activities on the beach. Orient is worth visiting least once to decide if you love it or!!!. Beware that a certain section of Orient is clothing optional.
Q: Where to eat?
A: Great Question! St Martin is renowned for its cuisine with more than 300 restaurants. Some of our favorites are in Maho Plaza , Chanteclair in Marina Royal in Marigot and La Gondala in Cupecoy for authentic Italian. We also like the Lolos snack shack in Grand Case. The barbecue is definitely worth tasting. Our "What to Do In St Martin" guide will give you lots of tips on where to eat and what to do.
Q: Is St Martin a good place to shop?
A: Yes, St Martin is a great island to shop. Marigot and Phillipsburg are the popular shopping districts. There are pros and cons to each town. Phillipsburg has reliable hours (no afternoon siestas) and caters to the cruise industry since the disembarkation point is located there. Find out when the cruise ships are not in (usually Tuesdays) to have the best shopping experience. St Martin Reservation Center can arrange for personal shopping tours that will give intimate service for our guests that prefer to know the insider strategy for shopping on St Martin. Marigot is prettier and quieter. Some of the best buys in jewelry can be had in Philipsburg and our favorite store is Ballerina II Jewelers. Prices are up to 60% off the best rates in the US and bargaining is not necessary. As a money saving tip, tell Tony or the manager on duty that you are a client of St Maarten Reservation Center.
Q: Is St Martin safe?
A: Yes, the island is a relatively safe Caribbean island. There are small incidences but they are easily avoidable. Being smart prevents you from being a victim. NEVER leave valuables in the car. Do not leave bags in a visible area or the main compartment. We leave our doors unlocked that way they know we don't have anything and won't damage the car in the process. Your car will not be stolen since you can't drive too far nor get away with it. The resorts are safe since guards are omnipresent.Most villas have electric gates and night time security in the residential communities.
Q: What activities do you recommend?
A: Visit our St Martin activity website at www.4funstmartin.com for full activity descriptions. We highly recommend day trips to Americas Cup 12 Meter Yacht Race, sailing excursion to Tintamarre, Rhino Riders, and Sunset cruises to name a few activities.
Q: How can I arrange babysitters while I am on St Maarten/St Martin?
A: Our local concierge offers highly rated and fully screened babysitters at affordable rates.
Q: Can I get married on St Maarten?
A: Yes. The Dutch side of the island, St Maarten, allows for destination weddings. Our island experts can offer guidance and advice on how to plan the St Maarten wedding. We work with all the leading wedding planners, florists and photographers on St Maarten.
Q: Best place for sunsets?
A: If you want sunset views from your rental villas just ask our island experts. Our oceanfront accommodations at The Cliff at Cupecoy Resort have exceptional sunset views. Sunset cruises offer a guaranteed unobstructed view.
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