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Your Guide

Getting Here 

  • Main Airport: Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is located on the Dutch side and serves direct flights from major U.S. and European cities.

  • Famous Landing: Don’t miss watching planes land over Maho Beach — it’s one of the most iconic spots in the world!

  • Entry Requirements:

    • U.S. & Canadian citizens only need a passport (valid at least 6 months beyond travel).

    • EU citizens also travel easily with a valid passport.

    • No visa is required for most countries, but double-check your country’s rules.

  • Customs & Immigration: Arrivals can be busy, so have customs forms ready. Allow a little extra time if landing on a weekend.

  • Getting Around:

    • Car Rentals: Highly recommended for freedom to explore both sides of the island. Roads are straightforward and scenic.

    • Taxis: Easy to find at the airport, resorts, and towns. Fares are fixed by zone — confirm the rate before you get in.

    • Ferries: From Marigot or Simpson Bay, you can hop over to nearby islands like Anguilla, St. Barts, and Saba.

Hotels & Transportation Information

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Pink Poppy Flowers

✨ Simpson Bay Resort (studio/1-bedroom, see images above): 

 

If you plan to book your stay through Simpson Bay Resort, please email sbrreservations@simpsonbayresort.com and mention code: " BELLA&PHIL WEDDING " to unlock our preferred group rate when making your reservation (Limited rooms are available, so we recommend booking early!). Rooms have been reserved from February 26 – March 1, 2026. If you’d like to extend your stay, you can email them to check availability. If your preferred dates aren’t available, please explore other accommodations. 

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🗓️ Please note: It will be high season in Sint Maarten, so we recommend securing your accommodations as early as possible.

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🚐 Transportation to and from the wedding venues will be provided for guests staying at the following resorts:

  • Simpson Bay Resort

  • Atrium Beach Resort

  • The Morgan Resort

  • Sonesta Maho (All-Inclusive)
     

We recommend renting your vehicle through Hertz Car Rental in Sint Maarten for reliable service: https://www.hertzsxm.com/ When renting a car, at the end of the form, please add the comment: " MERCELINA WEDDING GUEST " A sales representative will reach out to you!

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If you are staying elsewhere, we kindly recommend that you rent a vehicle or book a taxi in advance, as transportation will not be provided from other locations.​

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💡 If you're traveling with a group or family, consider renting a villa or apartment through Airbnb — many options include private pools, full kitchens, and beautiful island views.

However, please be mindful of the distance between your rental and the wedding venue, Kalatua. Traffic on the island — especially during high season and around peak hours — can be unpredictable, so allow extra travel time to ensure you arrive on time and stress-free! 

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We recommend checking routes in advance and considering transportation options like rental cars or pre-booked taxis!

Where to Eat & Drink

Sint Maarten is nicknamed the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean — and with good reason!

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🥘 Casual Eats & Local Flavors

Sint Maarten’s laid-back beach bars and open-air grills are where you’ll find the soul of the island’s cuisine — fresh seafood, sizzling barbecue, and bold island spices.

  • Lee’s Roadside Grill – A favorite for locals and tourists alike, known for its grilled snapper, lobster, and hearty island fare served in a fun, no-frills atmosphere.

  • Skip Jack’s – A relaxed waterfront spot serving some of the best seafood on the island. Don’t miss the lobster tank!

  • Grand Case (French Side) – Small, family-run eateries offering grilled meats, Creole stews, and fresh catch-of-the-day with a view of the sea.

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🍷 Fine Dining & Romantic Dinners

Whether you’re planning a special evening or simply want to savor world-class cuisine, Sint Maarten’s fine dining scene delivers unforgettable meals with a side of ocean breeze.

  • JAX Steakhouse – An upscale, American-style steakhouse perfect for a refined night out. Known for its premium cuts and elegant cocktails.

  • Bamboo House – A stylish fusion of Asian flavors and Caribbean ingredients, served with a view.

  • Sale e Pepe – Authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning waterfront setting. Homemade pasta and a great wine list make it a romantic favorite.

  • Roma – Sophisticated Mediterranean dining with rich, indulgent flavors and top-notch service.

  • Ocean 82 (French Side) – Elevated French-Caribbean fusion, ideal for sunset dinners with a gourmet twist.

  • Holland House – Beachfront elegance in the heart of Philipsburg. Excellent service, creative cocktails, and beautifully plated dishes.

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🥐 Breakfast & Lunch Gems

Start your day the right way with flaky pastries, island-fresh juices, and charming cafés serving up wholesome brunch options.

  • Zee Best – A legendary spot for buttery croissants, stuffed crepes, and tropical smoothies. A must-visit for breakfast lovers.

  • Top Carrot – A colorful, healthy café with vegetarian-friendly dishes, fresh juices, and smoothies. Great for light lunches and chill vibes.

  • Reveil Matin – A cozy breakfast and brunch café serving French-inspired comfort food. Try the omelets and pain perdu (French toast).

  • Rainbow Café (Grand Case) – Perfect for a beachfront brunch or midday cocktails, with a menu that blends French finesse and Caribbean flair.

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💡 Drinks You Have to Try

No visit to Sint Maarten is complete without sampling its signature sips:

  • Guavaberry Colada – A local twist on the piña colada made with the island’s own guavaberry liqueur — fruity, smooth, and uniquely Sint Maarten.

  • Locally Brewed Beers – Try beers from local breweries like Pelikaan Brewery or SXM Beer Company for a refreshing island take.

  • Fresh Coconut Water – Often sold roadside or right on the beach — served in the shell, it's the perfect way to hydrate under the sun.

Activities & Adventures

Whether you’re a beach bum or thrill-seeker, Sint Maarten has something for everyone.


🏖 Beaches (must-visits!)

  • Maho Beach – Famous for low-flying planes.

  • Mullet Bay – Great for swimming and snorkeling.

  • Orient Bay – Known as the “St. Tropez of the Caribbean” with beach clubs and watersports.

  • Friar’s Bay – Laid-back and family-friendly.


🚤 Excursions

  • Boat Trips: Sail to Anguilla, St. Barts, or nearby islets for snorkeling.

  • Pinel Island: A tiny paradise with beach bars and calm shallow waters.

  • Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Explore shipwrecks and coral reefs.


🌴 Adventure & Nature

  • Loterie Farm – Ziplining, hiking, or relaxing at their jungle pool.

  • Pic Paradis – The island’s highest point with sweeping views.

  • Rainforest Adventures Park – Home to the world’s steepest zipline.


🛍 Culture & Shopping

  • Philipsburg Boardwalk – Souvenirs, duty-free jewelry, and beach bars.

  • Marigot Market – Open-air French-Caribbean market with spices, crafts, and food.

Helpful Travel Tips

  • Currency: U.S. Dollars are widely accepted on both sides. The French side officially uses Euros, but most places accept USD.

  • Language: English is spoken everywhere. Dutch is official on Sint Maarten, French on Saint-Martin.

  • Weather: Warm year-round (75–85°F). Light rain showers are common, but usually short.

  • Electricity: Dutch side uses U.S. outlets (110V), French side uses European plugs (220V). Pack a universal adapter.

  • Safety: Generally safe, but use normal precautions (don’t leave valuables on the beach or in rental cars).

  • Driving: Right-hand side. Roads are narrow in places, so take it slow.

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