Travelers Mini-Guide to St Martin Island

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Heading out for a tropical island vacation in the Virgin Islands? St Martin island might be just what you need. But before you go, here are some of the basics that you will want to know before you head out to the Caribbean.

The climate on St Martin is extremely friendly, no matter where you're from. You will find that blue waters, lush greenery and tropical breezes await you no matter what time of the year it is. The average temperatures in the winter on St Martin island ranges from 74 to 84 degrees, and in the summer you will find it is from 78 to 87 degrees. While the rainfall averages 2 to 4 inches per months, the higher rainfall in the summer months so make sure that you are ready for more rain if you are headed to the Caribbean during the summer.

Traveling to St Martin island is extremely easy, just as traveling all over the island is. The main airport on St Martin is Princess Juliana airport, and there are international flights daily to major airports. Once you get here, renting a car should be one of the first things you do, as it is easier to get around from the Dutch side to the French side of St Martin if you have a rental car. Most of the rental cars are available through companies at the Princess Juliana airport, although you might find the best deals from the local agencies in the town so be sure that you check around to get the best deal before you sign anything. The best thing about driving yourself around on St Martin is that there is only one major highway that wraps around the whole island, making it easy to get where you want to go. Don't feel like driving around? There are taxis and buses if you don't want to rent a car, and are very easy to find and flag down no matter which city you are in. And, you will also find that scooters and bicycles are available for trails or side streets, but should not be taken on the main streets because of the chaotic driving.

Since there are two major sides to St Martin, several different currencies are accepted widely here. You will find that the main currencies are: Euros, NAF, and US Dollars. Most places do take US Dollars, credit cards and traveler’s checks. ATMs are plentiful and offer you a choice of Euros or US Dollars when using them. So make sure that you have plenty of the local currency so you can stock up on gifts, local cuisine, and more.

Have to stay connected to your family and friends back home? Check with your cellular provider before you go to see if your phone will work on St Martin. There are tons of plans that will offer you extra services for those traveling to the Caribbean on vacations, so make sure that you check before you go. You can also buy an inexpensive prepaid phone or calling card before you head out on any Caribbean vacations.

Internet access through Internet cafes are becoming more and more abundant all over St Martin, and you'll find them about everywhere you go. Some of the vacation home rentals on St Martin island will even offer Internet or WiFi for renters, so if this is a requirement for you on your St Martin vacation, make sure that you check. ReserveMy Home offers so many great ways to search for the right Caribbean vacation rental, including those with Internet access.

Where you stay depends largely on what type of atmosphere you are looking for. St. Martin is the quieter, less populated area of the island, great for relaxing family vacations or romantic getaways. The other side of the island, Dutch St. Maarten is the more upbeat, exciting area. There are beautiful vacation home rentals on both sides, it all is completely up to what you want to do on your vacation on St Martin.

Just like with any vacation, there are specific items that you will want to bring with you when you go. If you are going during the rainy season, mosquito repellent is an excellent addition to your suitcase. The bugs are out in full force during those summer months. Of course you need your Caribbean vacation clothing, flip-flops, swimsuits and sunscreen.

There are many "clothing optional" beaches if you are looking to be a bit wild - make sure that you know which these St Martin beaches are so that you don't wander onto one with your children accidentally. The islands enjoy duty free shopping also, so make sure to stock up on the lower priced items, but be sure to check the limit of alcohol and cigarettes when coming back to the United States. Gambling is only allowed on the Dutch side of the island, where all the action is, so if you want to experience some beautiful island casinos, make sure that you hit this side of the island while you're on St Martin.

ReserveMy Home has some absolutely beautiful Caribbean vacation home rentals, and you want to make sure that you check them all out before you choose one for your next St Martin vacation.