Language:
Officially, French is the language of St. Martin and Dutch
in St. Maarten, but almost everyone speaks English, and
many speak Spanish as well. French Creole and Papiamento,
a Creole language of the Netherlands Antilles, is spoken
here locally, especially in the southern parts of the
island.
Government:
Sub-prefecture of Guadeloupe (an overseas départment
of France)
Capital:
Marigot
Climate:
St Martin is warm and humid, but tradewinds help temper
the humidity, especially from January to April. Temperatures
in the first half of the year usually hang around a balmy
28°C (83°F). It is driest between February and
April, with most rain falling between August and November.
The hurricane season for the region is June to November,
with most activity occuring in August and September.
Time Zone:
GMT/UTC -4
Electricity:
Electrical appliances run at 220 volts (50 Hz), following
the European standard, in St. Martin, and at 110 volts
(60 Hz), after the American standard, in St. Maarten.
Visitors to the island should bring the appropriate converters,
depending on where they plan on staying.
Currency:
Official currencies are the French Franc and Euro on the
french side. Prices are commonly posted in US Dollars
which ave accepted everywhere, as are most major credit
cards Most banks are equipped with ATM machines.
Driving:
Traffic is on the right, international signs. The island's
roads are not designed for speed.
Rentals:
Rental agencies are located at both airports and at the
major hotels. Motorcycles and mopeds are also available
for hire.
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