All the tips to travel from US/Canada to Sint-Maarten stressfree

St. Maarten, also known as Sint-Maarten, is a Caribbean island located in the Leeward Islands of the West Indies. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

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Getting to St. Maarten

Traveling to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten is a breeze for U.S and Canadian visitors! The best way for those visiting from North America is a direct flight into Princess Juliana International Airport (also known as SXM), located on the Dutch side of the island.

Flights into Sint-Maarten (SXM) are scheduled all throughout the summer season, with over 1000 experiences from zip-lining to sailing to nearby beaches and amazing culinary experiences, which have been rated some of the finest in the Caribbean. 

No visa is required for Americans and Canadians when visiting St Maarten, thanks to restrictions relaxed after 2017, so begin day dreaming of crystal clear waters,beautiful beaches, plan ahead and make the journey as stress free as possible !

Transportation and Accommodation on the Island

Car rental options are plentiful and car rental companies such as Europcar St. Maarten ensures the rental process is smooth and convenient whilst on the island. Europcar offers short and long term rentals and has multiple locations throughout St. Maarten, at the airport in Simpson Bay and Grand Case on the French side of the island.

Accommodations can be found across the island, from vacation condos to private villas and resorts which cater to any budget. Europcar is happy to share the list of preferred partners that provide beautiful private villas and stunning condos. 

Activities and Weather on the Island

Once on the island, there are plenty of activities to enjoy from snorkeling and beach-hopping to exploring landmarks such as Fort Amsterdam and Philipsburg Courthouse. The weather in St. Maarten is usually quite pleasant with temperatures ranging from 79°F (26°C) - 89°F (32°C).

Generally, May to October sees higher humidity levels but less rainfall so it's best to plan your trip around these months if possible. Keep all these tips in mind when planning your next trip to Sint Maarten !

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Check list to go to SXM

As you plan your trip to St. Maarten, here's the checklist to ensure you’ve got everything covered before your trip !

1. Book flights: The main airport serving St. Maarten is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). You can book a direct flight from various cities in the United States, Canada. Some of the major airlines that operate flights to St.Maarten include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and KLM. Caution, if you are landing on Grand Case airport, it is French custom and more document can be asked.

2. Choose accommodation: There are various accommodation options available in St-Maarten, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. You can choose a hotel or resort based on your preferences and budget. Alternatively, you can also consider renting a vacation home or apartment for a more authentic local experience. If you want cozy villas we would recommend going to the French part, for more stunning hotels we advise you the Dutch part.

3. Verify required documentation: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter St. Maarten. Citizens of the United States, Canada do not need a visa for stays of up to three months. However, it is always a good idea to check the visa requirements for your country before booking your trip.

4. Book car rental in SXM : To explore and enjoy the island to the fullest, having a car is a must.Europcar has you covered, select your preferred pick up and drop off location, dates and proceed to select your vehicle of choice. Once reserved you will receive a booking confirmation, and we will handle the rest. We’re located just over 500m from the airport in Simpson Bay and Grand Case, where car pick up and drop off is available. 

5. Plan activities: Sint-Maarten has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained during your trip. Some of the must-do activities include visiting the famous Maho Beach, where you can watch planes land and take off just feet away from the shore, and exploring the island's vibrant nightlife in the capital city of Philipsburg. You can also go snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the island's stunning underwater world, or take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands. If visiting with children, Loterie Farm is an absolute must, with a ton of children activities and a child friendly swimming pool to cool off !

With a little planning and preparation, you'll be well on your way to an enjoyable and memorable trip. Rent a car in Sint Maarten and go discover this beautiful island !