janieanderson

We are going to St. Maarten in April. We're staying on the Dutch side but want to see it all. My husband is used to driving on the left side from other trips, but hates traffic. I hear it gets heavy.
Are we better renting a car or getting around other ways?
Any other suggestions? I've read about safety issues and probably need to get a used cheap camera instead of risking my DSLR.

Whathello

We are going in Saturday.
We were there 2 years ago - French side - one week. Now 2 weeks.
We have rented a car.
Buses are not that reliable and I prefer to have a car. My daughter is there right now was not supposed to rent a car but did because it is much more comfortable.

Have a great stay.

FrankyPa

I would say that it's better to get a car rental when you are on St. Maarten, but you don't really have to. It depends where you will be staying and what you want to do. You could if you want to walk the entire island (maybe with a small backpack) and if you are too tired, thirsty or too hot, you can always take a bus back. There is some more information here on the buses: http://stmaarten1.com/how-to-get-aro...martin-by-bus/

hope this helped

RoamsAround

Rent a car, you'll be glad you did.

No one is going to steal your DSLR unless you plan on leaving unattended on some beach or other remote location. Use the same common sense you do "back home" to protect your valuables and you'll be just fine.

Andrew304

Driving in St. Maarten is on the right, just as in USA/Canada.

Whathello

Oops. I drove 15 on the wrong side ?
Just kidding. St martin has been a colony of the Dutch and the French. Not the bloody British.

BellaClaire

Rent a car. It's easy it get around. You'll want to explore the great restaurants, beaches & shopping. I would never not have a car there.

travelingnomad321

Hi guys,

Hope you enjoyed your stay in Sint Maarten/saint martin. We have been traveling to the island for awhile now, just got back a few months ago. From experience, renting a car is much more easier if you want to explore the island given the limited bus routes. However, i do advise you to rent from local agencies rather than the commercial brands. You can get better rates and there are a few that even offer all risk insurance at one fixed price including taxes ranging from $99 a week and $19 per day. If you do plan on going back to Sint Maarten/ Saint Martin you can either book directly online or you can pick up your car upon arriving as some local rental agencies have booths on the airport and free shuttle service. (which makes them much more reliable than others). Here are a few of the good ones:
www.valuecarrental.com
www.safaricarrental.com
www.bestdealcarrental.com

Hope this helps!