Getting Around St. Martin

Transportations options abound in St. Martin and Sint Maarten

Island Hopping
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Whether vacationers want to focus their attention to the smallest island split between two nations, or take day trips to some of the beautiful neighboring Caribbean islands, there are plenty of efficient and affordable ways to secure travel while staying in St. Martin and Sint Maarten.

St. Martin and Sint Maarten coexist peacefully on the small island and transit between the two nations is not inhibited in any way. This makes the generally well maintained roads a very nice option for traveling between major tourist destinations while on vacation, whether you are on four or two wheels. Rental cars are widely available at major sites around the island and most companies will even deliver the car directly to your hotel. Prices are lower than many other Caribbean islands, but passengers should always secure insurance.

Taxis and buses are also affordable methods of transportation. Taxi drivers should have fixed rates from most major destinations and can often act as friendly tour guides for two to three hours for a set price. Taxis can be called around the clock, and will provide service to either side of the island. The local buses, or jitneys, run along major routes carrying locals and vacationers for cheap fares. These can be flagged down in cities or in rural areas.

Bikes and scooters provide much of the same freedom that a car would at a reduced price. Bike tours or mountain bike rentals can be a good way of exploring the surroundings of a particular area, while scooters allow travelers who are alone or with one other person freedom and mobility in their exploration of the island.

Finally, if exploring the two nations and many cultures on the island is not enough, there are regularly scheduled ferries and boats running to the neighboring islands of Anguilla, Saba, and St. Barth's, which all make for adventurous and scenic day trips.

Vacationers to Sint Maarten should not fail to see the quieter French side of the island, while visitors to St. Martin should not fail to partake in the excellent shopping opportunities available on the Dutch side. With many available means of transportation, travelers have every chance to enjoy the offerings of both nations.

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