How to Plan Your St Maarten Small Group Cultural and Heritage Tour

If you enjoy learning about different cultures and history, then the St Martin St Maarten Small Group Cultural and Heritage Tour is a perfect choice for you. This tour is an opportunity for you to explore the authentic side of St Maarten and witness the island’s fascinating past. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan your St Maarten Small Group Cultural and Heritage Tour.

Overview

This tour is a fascinating 4-hour journey into the history and culture of the island. You’ll visit historic sites and learn about local traditions from a knowledgeable guide. The tour’s highlights include visiting the Dutch and French sides of the island, the French capital of Marigot, and the Dutch capital of Philipsburg. You’ll get to witness the island’s stunning landscapes and have a deeper understanding of the island’s rich heritage.

What’s Included

The tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who will provide information about the tour’s sites and history. The tour also includes bottled water, coffee, and tea. The tour excludes personal expenses such as souvenirs, personal parking fees, and additional food and drinks.

Meeting and Pickup

There are two options for meeting or pickup for your tour. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is Dock Maarten, located on Juancho Yrausquin Blvd Philipsburg Sint Maarten. If you choose pickup, the pickup point is Philipsburg Cruise Terminal in the parking lot of Dock Maarten, a 10-minute walk towards Philipsburg.

Pickup Details

If you’re staying at Oyster Pond or Philipsburg, the pickup is included. The pickup will be at your hotel, lodging address, residence address, or company address in areas between Philipsburg and Oyster Pond, such as Divi Belair, Oyster Bay, Holland House, Vicky’s Keys, Alicia’s Inn, and Dawn Beach. The pickup will be at 9 am LOCAL TIME, and no pickup fee will be charged. If you’re staying anywhere else on St Maarten or St Martin, the pickup will be at other hotels, lodging addresses, residence addresses, or companies, including cruise ship guests. Please contact the tour operator to confirm your pickup location and time.

Tour Itinerary

The St Martin St Maarten Small Group Cultural and Heritage Tour takes you on an insightful journey through some of the island’s most significant cultural and historical sites.

Philipsburg

The guide will pick you up from the meeting point, and you’ll start your tour in Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side of the island. You’ll explore the charming city center, also known as the “front street” and “backstreet.” The tour of Philipsburg includes the courthouse, the Great Salt Pond, and a stop at the famous market.

The French Side of the Island

From Philipsburg, you’ll cross the border into the French side of the island. You’ll visit the picturesque French capital of Marigot, also known as the “Venice of the Caribbean.” In Marigot, you’ll have time to take in the ocean views, explore the marina, visit the famous Fort Louis, and taste some of the island’s delicious pastries.

Beaches of the Island

The tour continues with a scenic coastal drive along the island’s stunning beaches, including Happy Bay, Friar’s Bay, Grand Case, and the famous Maho Beach. You’ll have time to take pictures or dip your toes in the turquoise water.

Dutch Capital of Philipsburg

The last stop of the tour will be back in Philipsburg. You’ll have some free time to explore and shop in the city center before the tour ends.

The Verdict

The St Martin St Maarten Small Group Cultural and Heritage Tour is an insightful journey through the island’s history and culture. The tour offers a unique opportunity to visit both the Dutch and French sides of the island and explore its most significant cultural and historical sites. The tour guide is knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour an enjoyable and educational experience.Book the tour here to experience the authentic side of St Maarten and deepen your understanding of its rich heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions About St Maarten

St Maarten is a small island located in the Caribbean, divided between the French Overseas Collectivity of Saint-Martin and the Dutch constituent country of Sint Maarten. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that thousands of tourists visit the island every year. Here are some frequently asked questions about St Maarten that will help you plan a better trip.

1. What language is spoken in St Maarten?

The official languages of St Maarten are Dutch and English, but many locals also speak French and Spanish. You will most likely encounter English-speakers in the Dutch side and French-speakers in the French side. However, most people in the tourism industry are bilingual, so language should not be a problem for tourists.

2. What is the currency used in St Maarten?

The currency used in St Maarten varies depending on which side of the island you are on. The Dutch side uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), while the French side uses the Euro. However, US dollars are widely accepted on both sides of the island, so it’s always a good idea to bring some cash with you.

3. Do I need a passport to visit St Maarten?

Yes, you will need a valid passport to enter St Maarten. However, visitors from some countries may be exempt from visa requirements for a certain period of time. It’s always a good idea to check with your country’s embassy or consulate in advance.

4. When is the best time to visit St Maarten?

The best time to visit St Maarten is between December and April, when the weather is dry and temperatures are comfortable. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting between May and November, when the weather may be more humid and there may be more chances of rain, but there are fewer tourists.

5. What are some popular attractions in St Maarten?

St Maarten is known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, but there are many other attractions worth visiting. Some of the most popular include:- Maho Beach: Located on the Dutch side of the island, this beach is famous for its close proximity to the airport runway. Watch planes fly overhead as they land and take off.

– Loterie Farm: This nature reserve on the French side of the island offers zip-lining, hiking, and a treetop obstacle course.

– Philipsburg: This is the capital of the Dutch side of the island and is known for its colorful buildings, duty-free shopping, and beachfront restaurants and bars.

– Marigot: This is the capital of the French side of the island and offers a taste of French culture with its bistros, bakeries, and chic boutiques.

6. What is the food like in St Maarten?

St Maarten is known for its fusion cuisine, which combines Caribbean and European flavors. Some popular dishes include:- Johnny cakes: These fried dough balls are a staple of Caribbean cuisine and are often served with saltfish or chicken.

– Callaloo soup: This hearty soup is made with local vegetables and often includes meat or fish.

– Creole shrimp: This dish features plump, juicy shrimp in a spicy tomato-based sauce.

– Guavaberry rum: This sweet, fruity rum is made with the guavaberry fruit and is a popular drink in St Maarten.

7. Is St Maarten safe for tourists?

St Maarten is generally considered safe for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Keep your valuables with you at all times and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious when using ATMs.

8. How do I get around in St Maarten?

The best way to get around St Maarten is by car or taxi. Rental cars are readily available, but keep in mind that driving is on the right-hand side of the road. If you’re staying in a resort, shuttle buses may be available to take you to popular attractions. Public transportation is available in the form of minibusses, but they may be crowded and unreliable.

9. What should I pack for a trip to St Maarten?

When visiting St Maarten, it’s important to pack light, breathable clothing as the weather can be humid. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent. If you plan on doing any water activities, be sure to pack a swimsuit, waterproof camera or phone case, and water shoes. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended to protect against the sun.

10. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in St Maarten?

St Maarten is a melting pot of cultures, so most people are accepting of different customs and traditions. However, it’s always a good idea to be respectful to the locals and their customs. For instance, it is considered impolite to wear beachwear in public outside the beaches or beach bars. Always ask before taking photos of locals or their property.In conclusion, St Maarten is a beautiful island with plenty to offer for tourists. Whether you’re looking for beaches, adventure, or culture, St Maarten has something for everyone. With these frequently asked questions in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to this Caribbean paradise.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in St Maarten

St Maarten is a beautiful island located in the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region, attracting thousands of tourists every year. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, St Maarten offers plenty of things to see and do. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the best activities and sights on the island, so you can make the most of your time in St Maarten.

1. Visit the Beaches

St Maarten is famous for its beautiful beaches. There are several beaches on the island, each with its distinctive charms. Some of the most popular ones include:

Maho Beach

Maho Beach is located near the Princess Juliana International Airport, and it’s one of the most popular beaches on the island. Maho Beach is known for its thrilling experience of watching airplanes take off and land, which often pass just overhead.

Orient Bay Beach

Orient Bay Beach is another popular beach on the island. It’s famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling or trying out some watersports such as windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Great Bay Beach

Great Bay Beach is famous for its stunning sunsets. It’s located in the center of Philipsburg, the capital of St Maarten. The beach has several restaurants, bars, and shops.

2. Explore the Local Cuisine

Saint Maarten’s cuisine is a combination of African, European and Caribbean influences. When you visit the island, be sure to explore its local cuisine.

Johnny Cake

Johnny Cake is a St Maarten staple, and it’s a type of fried dough made from cornmeal or flour. It’s a popular breakfast food and also served as a side dish with seafood.

Conch Fritters

Conch Fritters are a popular appetizer on the island. These are made from conch meat that is ground and combined with flour, peppers, and seasonings. The mixture is then rolled into balls and deep-fried until golden brown.

3. Snorkeling and Diving

St Maarten is home to many beautiful coral reefs and marine life, which makes it an excellent location for snorkeling and diving.

Little Bay

Little Bay is a beautiful secluded beach on the island. Visitors can explore the beautiful coral reefs and marine life with the help of snorkeling gear. The underwater world of Saint Maarten is not to be missed, revealing a beautiful variety of tropical fish, turtles, sea stars, and an array of tropical marine creatures.

The Antilles Shipwreck

The Antilles Shipwreck is a popular diving spot in St Maarten. The ship was sunk intentionally to create an artificial reef, and it has now become home to an array of marine life. Since the shipwreck is at a depth of around 100 feet, it is recommended for experienced divers.

4. Take a Boat Tour

St Maarten is surrounded by beautiful crystal-clear waters and plenty of small islands to explore. Taking a boat tour is an excellent way to explore the island and see it from a different perspective.

Simpson Bay Lagoon

Simpson Bay Lagoon is a protected area where visitors can observe the island’s wildlife and enjoy the tranquil scenery. Visitors can choose a catamaran, speedboat, or even a kayak to explore the lagoon.

Anguilla Island

Anguilla Island is located just a short boat ride away from St Maarten. The island is famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the island and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in its many coves and bays.

5. Visit the Island’s Historical Sites

St Maarten has a rich and fascinating history, and there are several historical sites around the island that are not to be missed.

Fort Amsterdam

Fort Amsterdam was built in the 17th century by the Dutch to defend the island from invaders. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fort and learn about its history.

Front Street

Front Street is located in the heart of Philipsburg, and it’s one of the oldest and most picturesque streets on the island. Visitors can explore the street’s architecture, which showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

St Maarten is an incredible destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on a beautiful beach or explore the island’s rich cultural heritage, St Maarten has it all. By following this guide, you’re sure to make the most of your time on the island. Don’t forget to take your sunscreen, your camera or smartphone, and enjoy every moment of your trip.