Category: Sint Maarten

Discover everything you need to know about relocating to the stunning island of Sint Maarten with this comprehensive guide. From how to obtain residency to the best neighborhoods, lifestyle, and culture, we’ve got you covered.

The Uniqueness of Sint Maarten: An Introduction to the Island

Sint Maarten is a unique island located in the Caribbean Sea. It is the smallest island in the world that is shared by two nations, the Kingdom of the Netherlands and France. This means that while the southern part of the island belongs to the Dutch side, the northern part is French territory, and you can freely transit between the two nations.

The island is known for its breathtaking beaches (37 in total), crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. Sint Maarten’s cultural heritage has been a for so many years a mix of influences from all over the world. From the native Arawaks and Caribs, to Spaniards, French, Dutch, British, and even the Danes and Africans, and their present reflection in the blend of cultures of all nationalities currently living on this Caribbean Island. Sint Maarten is the most beautiful expression of a multicultural community.

For those considering making Sint Maarten their home, at BrightPath Caribbean we understand how important and life-changing this decision could be and we are ready to guide you through the process. Whether it is retirement or you’re just looking for a relaxed style of living, this article will give you a better understanding of the process.

Legal Residency: Navigating the Legalities

In Sint Maarten, you can apply for legal residency under different programs, and it will all depend on what your plans are. We always recommend you book a consultation with our team to get tailored advice to your specific needs. The requirements are straightforward and like any other country, the documents needed go from a birth certificate and police record to health insurance and proof of savings. Let’s look at some of the programs under which you can apply for residency and how convenient it is to do it with BrightPath:

Managing Director Program

When your Sint Maarten dream includes setting up a business on the friendly island you will be able to apply for temporary residency under this program, after all, you might want to manage your business very closely, correct? The managing director program requires several steps and documentation that will need to be executed or requested in a logical order for the process to move forward seamlessly. This is when at BrightPath, the corporate services team and the Immigration team work together to provide you with the business incorporation and licensing process while getting started on your residency request as a managing director. Residency under the managing director program requires renewals and keeping your business active and fully compliant.

Penshonado Program

Hooray! You have decided to enjoy your retirement in Sint Maarten. The process for the pensioner program goes along with a real estate transaction. Once a temporary residency has been approved, you are allowed to live in Sint Maarten for the first year without having to buy property. This is great because this period will allow you to physically see properties and get to know the neighborhoods, giving you the perfect timeframe to find the property you’ve been dreaming of, however, when it’s time to apply for the residency renewal you will have to show the purchase of a property for a minimum amount of Naf 450,000 (equivalent to USD 250,000). The team at BrightPath can assist you with your residency request, and asset protection, and point you in the right direction for qualified tax advice. While the agents at our affiliate BrightFuture Realty can help you navigate the real estate market in St. Maarten.

With no property taxes, a lower tax bracket for those over 52, and the possibility of protecting your assets with a Private Fund Foundation, no wonder why, the retirement program is so popular.

Investor Program

Prior to applying for residency under the investor program, a real estate purchase of a minimum amount of Naf 900,000 (approximately USD 500,000) is required. Residents under this program are not allowed to work. This program is perfect for those looking to invest in real estate with the benefit of being allowed to reside legally on the island. The investor program requires renewals and unlike other Caribbean nations, it allows you to apply for an indefinite residency permit once you’ve reached the required number of residency permits without any gaps. Investing in Real Estate is a great move, especially in countries like Sint Maarten where homeowners don’t have to worry about annual property taxes, the real estate market is booming, and can protect their assets with tools like a Private Fund Foundation or a company.

Work Permit

Temporary residency under the work permit program is possible for those who have been offered a job opportunity with an organization on the island. Works permits require several steps from the applicant and the business. Both the work permit and the residency need to be renewed as required by the labor department and the immigration authorities. Work permits can be lengthy and confusing when they’re not done properly, if your company is considering bringing in a foreign employee, we recommend you book a consultation with our experts. Work permits in St. Maarten are requested by an employer looking to bring a non-resident into their staff, and not by individuals considering coming to Sint Maarten and finding a job.

Dutch – American Friendship Treaty for US Nationals

Due to the geographical proximity and Sint Maarten’s popularity as a vacation destination for US Nationals, residency requests under the DAFT program are quite common. Under this program, applicants are allowed to work without the need for a separate work permit, and no renewals are required. Applying for residency with BrightPath as a US National is convenient and hassle-free, you can start the process from the comfort of your home and our team will handle everything, including document ordering for your birth certificate, marriage certificate, police record, assistance with pets import if needed; we can refer you to a Sint Maarten tax advisor and put you in the expert hands of our real estate partners, whether you’re looking to sell your property in the US and make a full exit or just purchasing or renting in Sint Maarten.

In addition to the most requested residency permits, there are a few more options available for those looking to relocate to Sint Maarten. One such option is the student permit, which is designed for individuals who are enrolled in a local school or educational institution. This permit allows students to reside on the island while pursuing their education. Another option is the family permit, which is ideal for those who want to bring a direct family member to Sint Maarten. Whether it’s a spouse, child, or parent, this permit allows families to reunite and start a new life together on the island.

It’s worth noting that the process of obtaining residency can be time-consuming, so it’s important to start the application process well in advance of your planned relocation date. Working with a reputable immigration firm like BrightPath Caribbean can help streamline the process and ensure that all necessary documents are in order.

Whether you’re considering retirement, starting a business, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Sint Maarten offers a variety of residency options to suit your needs. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming community, it’s not surprising that more and more people are choosing to make Sint Maarten their home. So, start planning your move today and prepare to embark on an exciting new chapter in your life on this beautiful Caribbean island.

Finding Accommodation: Your Home Away from Home

Relocation means, real estate. Finding suitable accommodation is an important aspect of moving to Sint Maarten. Whether you’re looking for a temporary rental or a permanent home, there are various options available to suit different budgets and preferences.

Popular areas for expats include Simpson Bay, Cupecoy, Guana Bay, Cole Bay, and Oyster Pond. These areas offer a range of housing options, from beachfront villas to cozy apartments. It’s advisable to engage the services of a local real estate agent who can assist you in finding the perfect place to call home.

When searching for the ideal neighborhood to purchase or rent a home, the decision can be a daunting task. There are countless factors to consider, including safety, proximity to work and schools, real estate prices, and traffic. Moreover, personal preferences play a significant role, such as desiring a pool, an ocean view, or direct access to the beach.

Before making your decision, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate all these factors and create a personalized checklist of your desires and must-haves. Do you picture yourself unwinding by a sparkling pool, savoring the awe-inspiring vistas of the ocean, or waking up to the serene beauty of the hills? Are you in need of the convenience of a garage or are you perfectly content with curbside parking? Take the time to thoroughly assess your preferences and needs, as finding the perfect neighborhood is key to creating a comfortable and enjoyable living experience in Sint Maarten.

Other aspects you need to consider when moving completely out of your country are your assets back home and in some cases tax exposure. If you are moving to Sint Maarten from the US, our multidisciplinary team can assist and guide you with the task of selling your property and making a clean exit, while requesting your residency permit and looking for your new place.

Quick tips on what to consider when looking for a property in Sint Maarten

When looking for a property in Sint Maarten, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, it’s essential to determine your budget and your needs. However, these are a few things that you and your real estate agent need to keep in mind, especially if you’re a first-time owner in the Caribbean.

• Maintenance and inspections: Don’t be afraid to ask how often or when was the last time something in a property had maintenance, houses in the Caribbean often require keeping up with the air conditioning, pool, septic tank, generator, solar panels, and if you’re buying, those are things you need to consider as well as a home inspection if the property has been through any natural disaster, a major repair or is older than 15 years.
• Hurricane shutters: Yes, it is part of the Caribbean, and everyone has had to learn how to prepare for the hurricane season. One essential part is the protection that hurricane shutters give to your property, apart from making sure that your property is hurricane-proof, having properly installed and working shutters is important.
• HOA Fees and Insurance: It’s very important to make sure you understand what the Home Owners Association fee includes, in most cases includes maintenance of common areas like pool, gym, and security, and in other cases also includes insurance for the property. Your realtor should be able to provide you with all the necessary information.
• Is the property owned by an individual, a PFF, or a company: It might not seem like something of importance, since the basics of the real estate transaction are quite similar, however, it makes a world of a difference, and your realtor needs to be able to give you the correct information and to make sure that in all cases everything is up to date. For example, if the property is under a company or a private fund foundation, it is key to have all documentation, taxes, and banking details in good order, otherwise, you may have a sale-purchase transaction “jammed” for an undefined period of time.

By considering these factors when looking for a property in Sint Maarten, you can ensure that you find a home that fits your lifestyle and provides a comfortable and enjoyable living experience on this beautiful Caribbean Island.

Working Or Starting a Business in Sint Maarten: Job Opportunities and Business Environment

Sint Maarten offers job opportunities and a favorable business environment for those looking to work or start a business on the island. The tourism industry is a major contributor to the economy, providing employment opportunities in various sectors such as hospitality, entertainment, and services.

In addition to the tourism industry, Sint Maarten also has a growing cargo and travel sector and opportunities in construction, and the marine industry. It’s important to research and book a consultation with our team, to understand the requirements for working or starting a business in Sint Maarten. Depending on your nationality your employer might need, or not, to request a work permit, and in all cases if you are not born on the island or any of the Dutch island that only requires proof of registration, you will have to go through an immigration process.

Starting your own business in Sint Maarten is possible and you’ll find opportunities in a wide range of sectors. Foreigners can own 100% of their business and can request a residency permit under the managing director program for up to two non-national directors. Starting a business in Sint Maarten requires quite a few properly executed steps for the process to move smoothly, particularly when your business incorporation is the starting point for an immigration process. At BrightPath, the Corporate Services team can assist you with all the legalities, such as incorporation, licenses, banking, and registration in other departments, so you can focus on what’s important; your business.

Settling In: Embracing the Sint Maarten Lifestyle

Once you’ve made the move to Sint Maarten, it’s time to embrace the island’s unique lifestyle. The laid-back Caribbean vibe combined with the influences of both Dutch and French cultures creates a vibrant and welcoming community. Take the time to explore the island’s stunning beaches, try local cuisine, and participate in festivals and events. Engage with the local community and make new friends who can help you settle into your new life in Sint Maarten

How easy it is to integrate into the Sint Maarten Community?

Cultural integration in Sint Maarten is a fascinating experience. The island is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from European and Caribbean traditions. As a result, residents and visitors can easily immerse themselves in a diverse and vibrant community. From the colorful local festivals and events to the various languages spoken.

In terms of languages, English is widely spoken and understood on the island, making it easy for English-speaking individuals to communicate and navigate their daily lives. However, due to its history and cultural diversity, you will also hear Dutch, French, Spanish, and Papiamento being spoken (just to name a few). Embracing the local language and learning a few key phrases can greatly enhance your experience and help you connect with the community on a deeper level.

When it comes to cuisine, Sint Maarten offers a mouthwatering mix of flavors. From traditional Caribbean, Spanish, French, Italian, and even Indian dishes to the most amazing fusion cuisine proposals Indian-Caribbean or Mexican-Caribbean, or street food with Caribbean twists, authentic Italian gelato, first-class French Baked goods, and Island-made chocolate treats. in Sint Maarten, there is something to satisfy every palate. When we talk about traditional Sint Maarten cuisine don’t miss the opportunity to sample local specialties such as saltfish and Johnny cakes, jerk chicken, and delectable seafood stews. The island’s vibrant food scene is a true reflection of its multicultural heritage. Sint Maarten’s culinary proposal is among the best in the Caribbean!

Education system

In terms of education, Sint Maarten offers a range of educational institutions, including international schools, public schools, and private schools. The primary and high school education system follows the Dutch, American, or Canadian model depending on the institution. Families relocating to the island can rest assured that their children will have access to quality education.

Medical care 

When it comes to healthcare, Sint Maarten offers a comprehensive healthcare system. The island has the main Hospital “Sint Maarten Medical Centre” and several Doctor’s offices conveniently located all over the Dutch side. It’s important to note that healthcare in Sint Maarten is not free, so it’s advisable to have health insurance coverage to ensure that you have access to affordable healthcare whether it is private insurance or through the government’s medical insurance called SZV.

What about shipping my belongings or buying online?

Shipping and buying online on the island is relatively straightforward. Sint Maarten has the best-developed cargo infrastructure for the Eastern Caribbean and is well-connected to major shipping routes. This makes it easy to ship goods to and from the island. Additionally, Sint Maarten has no import/export taxes, which means you will only pay for the cargo company services. It is very common for residents to buy online in any online shopping platform and bring it to the island using one of the many cargo companies, allowing residents to conveniently purchase items online.

Events

In terms of events, Sint Maarten is known for its vibrant and lively festivals and events throughout the year. From Carnival celebrations to music festivals and regattas, there is always something exciting happening on the island. These events provide opportunities for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy live music, indulge in delicious food, and connect with the community.

Overall, Sint Maarten offers a unique and enriching lifestyle for residents. The island provides a welcoming environment for individuals looking to relocate. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a fresh start, Sint Maarten has something to offer everyone.

 

Do you have any questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

 

If you’ve ever lived in St. Maarten for a long time and want to relax in quiet location, head to Tintamarreon on the French side of the Island.

 

Some of the best beaches in the world are found in the Caribbean. Spread across over 700 islands, reefs, bays, and breathtaking scenery, the Caribbean is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

So if you’re thinking of relocating to the Caribbean or visiting for a short, recreational trip, you want to make the most of your stay on this earth’s heaven. But considering the exuberant number of beaches, it’s hard to pick one or even a handful. We know the struggle and are happy to offer some help in this blog.

Below are the most mesmerizing beaches that you can enjoy while visiting the Caribbean in 2022. You can opt for a secluded spot, a nude beach, or one that’s brimming with partygoers. The choice is yours to have fun in the Caribbean as you want to! We have just shortlisted the place you must visit in 2022.

Antigua and Barbuda

If you are on the lookout for a new beach every day of the year, visit Antigua and Barbuda. This twin-island has 365 beaches, and each one is more exotic than the other. From Half Moon Bay to Dickenson Bay, there are a number of beaches with different waters, shorelines, and footfall.

St. Maarten

You may have seen the picture of a plane flying low over a beach as the beachgoers continue to have fun. That popular internet picture is from St. Maarten’s Maho Beach. Located in Philipsburg’s capital city on the Dutch-owned island, Maho Beach is one of the most fun places to visit in 2022.

However, if you’ve been living in St. Maarten for a while now and want to enjoy a secluded spot, go to the Ile Tintamarreon on the French side of the island.

St. Kitts and Nevis

An independent British territory, St. Kitts and Nevis is another wonderful twin island in the Caribbean. Offering a wide range of beaches, including Oualie Beach, Cockleshell Bay, Bustling Frigate Bay, and Pinney’s Beach, where you can trek, surf, or just soak in the sun, St. Kitts and Nevis is one of our favorites too.

Anguilla

Stretched merely over 16 miles, Anguilla is a nature’s wonder as it offers 33 beaches on its shores. Secluded, crowded, with blue waters, white sand, and plenty of coconuts, Anguilla is a small island with a lot to offer to its visitors. In fact, many people looking to retire in the Caribbean choose Anguilla due to its quiet and serene environment.

Visit, Retire, or Move to the Caribbean with Us

You may have lived a long life in the fast-paced urban culture and now want to enjoy the brighter side of life in the Caribbean. If you are among those who wish to restart their life under the sun and on the beach, then reach out to us at BrightPath Caribbean.

We are a Caribbean immigration consultancy and business incorporation service. We help our clients retire, relocate, and move to the Caribbean.

For many years, St. Maarten was known for its high tourist footfall and as a leading vacation destination in the Caribbean. While the country still enjoys its rank among the top tourist attractions in Central America, recently St. Maarten has also developed one of the highest GDPs in the region.

For this reason and many more, foreign nationals like Americans, Canadians, and Europeans are keen to set up an offshore company or start a business in St. Maarten. Many have moved to this Dutch-French-owned Caribbean island to enjoy the sunny side of life.

If you’re looking to start a business in St. Maarten, then you’re reading the right blog on the internet. We’ll tell you five key factors that everyone should know before starting a business on the ‘Friendly Island.’

The Leading Industry – Tourism

St. Maarten’s economy is heavily influenced by tourism. After all the scenic beaches, the diverse cultures, and the exotic cuisine makes it one of the most amazing places for recreational trips. This is why St. Maarten’s tourism industry accounts for 80 percent of the country’s total revenues.

If you’re looking to start a profitable business in St. Maarten, consider opening a hotel, restaurant, photography business, tour guide, or any tourism-related entertainment business.

The Up and Coming Opportunities

Historically, St. Maarten was known for its sugar and salt exports. Then came the era of tourism, which is still dominant. However, with technological infrastructure, e-commerce, and freelancing becoming a norm, St. Maarten is also pacing up in the IT business sector.

The Taxes and Benefits

St. Maarten has territorial taxes on the income. This means that whatever you’re earning within St. Maarten will be taxable up to 20 percent. Additionally, there are no taxes on capital gains, property, exchange of personal assets, and imports other than petrol.

This makes St. Maarten a duty-free Caribbean country and one where having an offshore company will be highly profitable.

The Economy

The latest per capita GDP of St. Maarten was reported at US$29,495 in 2021. The Caribbean country is known for one of the highest GDPs in the Caribbean region and is expected to improve its business climate further. Tourism-related businesses contribute almost 45 percent of the St. Maarten’s GDP.

The Currency, Banking, and Permits

Albeit Euro is the central currency of St. Maarten; US dollars are also usable. So if you’re an American setting up a bank account in St. Maarten, you will not need to worry about exchange rates. Further, getting a work permit in St. Maartenis fairly easy, and an expert business consultant like BrightPath Caribbean can help you through it through.

If you wish to know more about starting a business in St. Maarten or relocating to any other Caribbean country, reach out to us at BrightPath Caribbean. We also offer a free Zoom consultation for an initial assessment of your case.

The part Dutch and part French Caribbean island St. Maarten or Saint Martin has many claims to fame. From being the smallest co-habited landmass to boasting an airport on the beach, St. Maarten is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean.

Even for a few days, life in St. Maarten is full of wonderful and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Cultural diversity, exotic beaches, shopping sprees, and great food are all offered in this gourmet capital of the Caribbean.

So whether you’re a first-time visitor to St. Maarten or have witnessed the beautiful side of life there before, take a note of this blog. Here we’ll tell you seven foods you can absolutely not miss on your next trip to St. Maarten!

Let’s start watering our mouths!

Callaloo

Call-Aloo, a local delicacy, is a popular dish in St. Maarten. Made with greens like soy, spinach, kale, and callaloo (a spinach-like vegetable); this soup can warm you up. Seasoned with local herbs, pepper, onion, and topped with pork, you can’t miss this soup at all!

Johnny Cakes

Also called journey cakes, Johnny cakes are the local version of pancakes made with corn. Slightly sweet, very light, and puffy, these cakes are a day snack, breakfast dish, and a side for dinner. Fortunately, Johnny cakes are the easiest to find in St. Maarten, as most popular restaurants have them on their menu.

Conch and Dumplings

If you want to redefine your seafood experience in the Caribbean, try conch and dumplings in St. Maarten. Made of snail broth coupled with corn dumplings and seasoned with local spices, this gravy will make you want to move to St. Maarten for good!

Chiquetaille De Morue

Seafood is the star ingredient in St. Maarten, and one way to find that out is by trying this codfish-based entree. Shredded codfish mixed with hot pepper vinaigrette, Chiquetaille De Moruemay be complicated to pronounce but easily devoured.

Crab Backs

Or, if you’re not into snails and codfish, St. Maarten has crabs for you. Deshelled crabs seasoned with jalapenos, local peppers, and spices then filled into the shell to be breaded and fried, crab backs are a favorite amongst locals and tourists.

Locri

And if you want a hearty dish that tantalizes your tastebuds, try locri. Locri is made of rice, vegetables, and meat like seafood or chicken. Cooked together in a steaming hot pot, locri is sure to fill your stomach and heart!

Codfish Fritters

You may have had various types of fritters, but none would beat codfish fritters! A simple dish that has been embraced by locals and those who immigrated to St. Maarten, codfish fritters are common on both sides of the island.

Visit, Relocate, or Retire in St. Maarten!

Has this food list tempted you to visit St. Maarten? Luckily for you, we at BrightPath Caribbean can help. Whether you want to start a business, set up a bank account, or relocate to St. Maarten, contact us. You can also schedule a free Zoom consultation by clicking here.

There are many reasons to retire in St. Maarten, from the beautiful beaches and luxury resorts to the low cost of living and friendly locals. For starters, St. Maarten is a tax-free jurisdiction, which means that retirees can keep more money in their pockets. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it easy for retirees to get by on a fixed budget. And thanks to the excellent infrastructure, a retiree can get by without a car or driver’s license.

If you want to retire in the Caribbean, get in touch with BrightPath Caribbean.

There are many perks of retiring in St. Maarten, from the island’s natural beauty and temperate climate to its relaxed lifestyle and world-class health care system. Here are some more:

1.     The Weather

The weather is the number one reason people move to St. Maarten. The temperatures are always comfortable, the sun is shining, and the breeze is blowing. There’s never a need for a coat, and you can always find a spot in the sun to relax.

In addition to the perfect weather, St. Maarten offers various activities to keep you busy. You can go sailing, windsurfing, diving, or snorkeling any day of the week. And if you want to explore the island, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from.

2.     The People

One of the best reasons to retire in the Caribbean is the people. They are warm, friendly, and welcoming, always going out of their way to make you feel at home. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like one of the family.

The locals are always happy to share a bit of their culture and history with you, and they take great pride in their island paradise. You’re sure to make some lifelong friends during your time here.

3.     The Lifestyle

One of the biggest reasons to retire in St. Maarten is the incredible quality of life you can enjoy here. St. Maarten is a small, Dutch-speaking island nation located in the northeast corner of the Caribbean Sea. It shares an island with the French territory of Saint-Martin, and together they make up the smallest country in the world by land area. St. Maarten is a vibrant, modern country with a diverse economy and rich culture despite its small size.

4.     The Healthcare

The healthcare system in St. Maarten is one of the main reasons people retire here. The island has a modern, well-equipped hospital and a wide range of excellent doctors, specialists, and nurses. The hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and offers a full range of services, from routine checkups to major surgery.

There are also several private clinics on the island offering excellent care. And if you need specialized care that is not available in St. Maarten, the hospital has excellent working relationships with hospitals in the United States, Canada, and Europe

If you’re looking for a relaxing and beautiful place to retire, look no further than St. Maarten! This island has a lot to offer retirees, from stunning beaches and crystal-clear water to a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle. Plus, St. Maarten is a great place to do business, with a strong economy and a welcoming business climate. If you’re interested in living in St Maarten, contact us today for more information about our relocation to Caribbean services. We can help you with your process of immigration to St. Maarten.

St. Maarten and St. Martin are two islands located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The two islands share a name but are divided into two different countries: St. Maarten is a territory of the Netherlands, while St. Martin belongs to France. Although they share the same name, the cultures of the two islands are quite different. This can be seen in the food, music, and architecture on each island. So which island should you settle on?

That depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for an island with lots of things to do, then St. Maarten is the better choice. But if you’re looking for a quieter and more relaxed environment, St. Martin is your best bet.

If you’re planning to move to Sint Maarten, get in touch with Bright Path Caribbean.

Let’s take a look at the details of each island to help you decide which one is right for you!

1.     The pros and cons of each island

There are two sides to every story, which is certainly the case for the Caribbean Island of St. Maarten/St. Martin.

St. Maarten

St. Maarten offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to some of the best shopping in the Caribbean. St. Martin is more low-key and less commercialized than its sister island, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy its natural beauty.

On the other hand, St. Maarten is a very expensive destination, and prices for food, accommodations, and other services are among the highest in the Caribbean. St. Martin has seen increased crime recently; however, it remains relatively safe compared to many other Caribbean islands.

St. Martin

St. Martin has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. There are miles and miles of white sand beaches with powdery, fine sand that you can walk on for hours without ever having to turn around. And while there are a few larger resorts along the island’s coasts, there are also several smaller, family-run resorts and hotels as well.

However, St. Martin is an island with two halves. The French side is where the international airport is located and has most of the best hotels and restaurants. However, St. Martin has only one decent road connecting the French side to the Dutch side, which means that if you are staying on the Dutch side, you have to take a ferry or a water taxi to get around (unless you want to drive yourself).

2.     How to choose the right island for you

If you’re looking for a Caribbean Island to call your home, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before deciding on relocating to the Caribbean. For example, are you looking for a bustling nightlife scene, or would you prefer to relax on a secluded beach? Language, culture, and location are key factors to consider when choosing between St. Maarten and St. Martin.

Are you thinking about retiring in the Caribbean? Or maybe moving to the Caribbean? You’ll need to choose between St. Maarten and St. Martin. Both islands are wonderful places to retire or do business, but each has its unique benefits and drawbacks. Contact us today to find out more about the pros and cons of each island, and we’ll help you make the right decision for your immigration needs.