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St Martin is a unique French island in the Caribbean. This island is extraordinary as it shares its landmass with the Dutch island of St Maarten.
Based on square miles, St Martin has the bigger landmass being 37 square miles. On the other hand, St Maarten is only 13 square miles. The capital of St Martin is Marigot.
St Martin is known as the gourmet capital of the Caribbean and is loved for having some of the finest restaurants in the Caribbean especially the town of Grand Case. So if you are a foodie, then this Caribbean island is the perfect choice for you.
If you are dreaming about your upcoming trip to St Martin, you may have some questions around what currency is best for the island.
The best currency to use in St Martin is the Euro. This is the official currency of the island as it is a French Overseas Territory. US Dollars and coins are accepted on the island. Large businesses such as hotels, restaurants and supermarkets accept credit card payments.
What Is The Official Currency of St Martin
As an overseas department of France, the official currency of St Martin is the Euro which is managed by the European Central Bank.
Bank notes are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euro dollars. Alternatively coins are available in 1 and 2 Euro dollars and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent pieces.
Do I need cash in St Martin?
Cash is required especially when doing business with small and medium sized businesses. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted by larger businesses on the island. These include restaurants, beach bars and hotels.
Can you use US dollars in St Martin?
US dollars are accepted in St Martin with change also given in US dollars. US coins can also be used when making payment. Change is usually given in US dollars.
Therefore as an example if an item costs USD$6.50 and you pay with $10, the 50 cents change will be US coins.
Can you use Canadian dollars in St Martin?
As a general rule, businesses on the island do not accept Canadian dollars and you will be referred to one of the commercial banks to have your bank notes converted. One of the main commercial bank is St Martin National Bank.
Can you use Netherlands Guilders or Florins in St Martin?
While this is the official currency of St Maarten which is the Dutch side, this currency is not used on the French side.
Can you use British Pound Sterling dollars in St Martin?
Along the same lines as the Canadian dollars, businesses on the island will not accept British Pound Sterling as the rate fluctuates daily with the Euro.
Generally, you will be referred to a commercial bank to have your bank notes converted.
Can you use a debit card in St Martin?
Debit cards can be used on the island at the ATM machines in Marigot. There are several 24 hour operated ATMs on the island and they are easy to access especially in Marigot.
You will receive monies in Euro dollars. Kindly note that there is usually a fee that is charged by your bank for each transaction.
General Tips To Remember In St Martin
- St Martin shares its landmass with St Maarten and hence it is seamless to drive to the Dutch side as it is known for excellent duty free shopping, the iconic Maho beach and bustling night life atmosphere. The international airport, Princess Juliana is also located on the Dutch Side of the island.
- Ferry services are available to the nearby islands of St Barths and Anguilla. Ensure and verify visa requirements especially for entry into St Barths.
- The official language of St Martin is French. However, English is widely spoken on the island. St Maarten’s official language is Dutch but English is also spoken.
- Orient Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It is well known for having a clothing optional area.
- Some of the exciting things to do while in St Martin include visiting Fort Louis and Tintamarre Island.
- Banks usually open on weekdays on Mondays to Fridays. There are banks that open on Saturdays for a few hours on the island.
- Ensure and notify your banks prior to traveling to prevent credit cards from being blocked as you begin using it on the island.
- Many small businesses on the island do not have credit card machines. If you plan on supporting small businesses during your stay, then have cash available.
- Standard European 220 volts is used on the French side
- While the Dutch side is known for its shopping, the French Side also has several shops where you can buy souvenirs, jewelery and designer products. Le West Indies Shopping Mall is a two level area where one can find several stores. Additionally for fresh produce and locally produce goods, there is a market in Marigot every Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Final Thoughts
As a general rule, the best currency to use in the St Martin is the Euro. US Dollars and coins are accepted by businesses on the island. Credit Cards and Debit Cards are easy to use at large businesses. There are many 24 hour operated ATMs on the island to use your bank cards to access Euro dollars.
If you are contemplating traveling to St Martin, St Maarten or the rest of the Caribbean, cruising is an affordable option to consider. I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less.
This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less.
Need More Information?
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