Saint Martin is surging the travel Industry with new visa-free entry policy for 86 countries, including Brazil, Australia and Schengen Nations – Travel And Tour World

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Now 86 countries are able to enter Saint Martin without any kind of visa. It is proud to be a popular destination in the Caribbean for holidaymakers seeking to experience the island’s multicultural and lively atmosphere. Whether you are planning a trip for leisure travel, business travel, or corporate travel, Saint Martin offers a vibrant blend of cultural experiences and activities. For those visiting for vacation and relaxation, the island’s stunning beaches and diverse culinary scene provide ample opportunities to unwind. Business travelers and corporate professionals will find that the island’s modern infrastructure and excellent connectivity make it an ideal destination for conferences, meetings, and networking events. Additionally, Saint Martin caters to various other purposes including sport, medical reasons, family matters, study, and religious purposes. Regardless of the nature of your visit, you must meet a number of entry requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay on the island. Nationals from numerous countries can enter Saint Martin without a visa, provided they meet certain conditions. These countries include, but are not limited to, Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Grenada, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong (holders of British National Overseas and Special Administrative Region passports), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao (holders of Special Administrative Region passports), Macedonia, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nicaragua, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vatican City, and Venezuela.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of Moldova visa-free policy for 86 countries, including Schengen nations, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. This strategic move has not only simplified the entry process for millions but has also broadened our appeal across diverse travel sectors. Additionally, this policy has invigorated niche travel markets, such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, enriching the travel experience and fostering significant economic growth and cultural exchange.”

Over one million visitors come to the island each year with most arriving through the Princess Juliana International Airport in Sint Maarten. The financial sector is also important to Saint Martin’s economy as it facilitates financial mediation for its thriving tourism sector.

Schengen Area Countries

• Austria
• Belgium
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

EU Member States (Non-Schengen)

• Bulgaria
• Cyprus
• Ireland
• Romania

European Microstates

• Andorra
• Monaco
• San Marino
• Vatican City

Western Balkans

• Albania
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Macedonia
• Montenegro
• Serbia

Other European Countries

North America

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Canada
• Costa Rica
• Dominica
• El Salvador
• Grenada
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Mexico
• Nicaragua
• Panama
• St Christopher and Nevis (St Kitts)
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• St Lucia
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United States of America

South America

• Argentina
• Brazil
• Chile
• Ecuador
• Paraguay
• Uruguay
• Venezuela

Asia

• Brunei
• Hong Kong (holders of a British National (Overseas) passport)
• Hong Kong (holders of a Special Administrative Region passport)
• Israel
• Japan
• Macao (holders of a Special Administrative Region passport)
• Malaysia
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• United Arab Emirates

Oceania

Africa

French Side “St Martin” and Dutch Side “St Maarten”

French Side “St Martin”:

• Part of France.
• Uses Euros as the official currency.
• Offers a larger array of nature areas to explore.

Dutch Side “St Maarten”:

• An autonomous part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
• Uses Dutch Antillean Guilders, but the dollar is the most common currency.
• Known for its bustling nightlife, casinos, shopping, and activities.

Airlines Serving Saint Martin / Sint Maarten

Saint Martin / Sint Maarten is served by numerous airlines, connecting it to major international destinations. Here are the main airlines:

1. American Airlines
2. Delta Air Lines
3. JetBlue Airways
4. United Airlines
5. Air France
6. KLM
7. WestJet
8. Air Canada
9. Air Transat
10. Spirit Airlines
11. Copa Airlines
12. Winair
13. Caribbean Airlines
14. Silver Airways
15. TUI Fly
16. Lufthansa

These airlines operate flights to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) and Grand Case L’Esperance Airport (SFG), connecting Saint Martin to North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands.

Main Differences for Visitors

For our visitors, the main difference will be felt by the more widely available bustling nightlife, casinos, shopping, and activities available on Dutch side St Maarten. In contrast, the slightly larger French side St Martin offers a larger array of nature areas to explore.

Arrival Points and Accessibility

Air Travel:

• Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): An important hub for the Northeastern Caribbean with daily connections to many American airports, Caribbean airports, Panama City (PTY), Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG).
• Grand Case L’Esperance Airport (SFG): Serves destinations within the French Caribbean, including Martinique, Guadeloupe, and St. Barths.

Sea Travel:

• Ferries: Connect St. Maarten / St. Martin to Saba, Sint Eustatius, Anguilla, St. Barths, and St. Kitts & Nevis.
• Cruise Ships: St. Maarten is a popular cruise destination with ships docking within walking distance of Philipsburg. The island’s size allows cruise passengers to partake in any excursion or activity, or to choose and reach a restaurant in time.

Yachting:

• Sailing Boats and Yachts: St. Maarten is a key yachting center within the Caribbean, celebrated with events like the St Maarten Heineken Regatta in March and the Annual Multihull Regatta in February.
• Important Yachting Areas:
  • Simpson Bay Lagoon
  • Additional marinas in Philipsburg, Simpson Bay (outside the Simpson Bay Lagoon Bridge), Marigot, and Anse Marcel.
  • Popular anchoring locations include Grand Case, Simpson Bay, and Tintamarre Island.

Hotels in St Martin / St Maarten

Luxury Resorts:

• Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort, Casino & Spa: Located on a mile-long white-sand beach, this adults-only resort offers three swimming pools, four restaurants, four bars, a spa, and a casino.
• JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa: Nestled on Dawn Beach, this resort is ideal for those seeking luxury with a focus on wellness and relaxation.

Boutique Hotels:

• Adonis Cupecoy Hotel: A contemporary hotel in Jordan Village, offering modern amenities and close proximity to Mullet Bay and Cupecoy beaches.
• Princess Heights Luxury Boutique Condo Hotel: Known for its spacious condos and stunning views, this hotel is perfect for families and long-term stays.

Family-Friendly Options:

• Divi Little Bay Beach Resort: Located on a private peninsula, this resort offers multiple pools, restaurants, and family-friendly activities.

All-Inclusive Resorts:

• Sonesta Ocean Point Resort: An all-inclusive, adults-only luxury resort situated on the westernmost point of the island, offering breathtaking views and exclusive amenities.

Villas and Vacation Rentals:

• St. Maarten Villas: A variety of luxurious villas and condos available for rent, perfect for groups and families looking for private accommodations with home-like amenities.

Top DMCs and MICE Advisors in Saint Martin

Saint Martin is a prime destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) and is served by several reputable Destination Management Companies (DMCs) that offer comprehensive services to ensure successful events and memorable travel experiences.

1. Ovation DMC

Ovation DMC is known for its extensive experience in managing group travel, meetings, and events. They provide a full range of services including venue selection, event planning, logistics, and local excursions. Their partnership with Amstar Meetings & Events enhances their capability to deliver award-winning services tailored to the unique needs of each group.

Services:

• Incentive programs
• Corporate meetings
• Event management
• Local excursions and cultural experiences

2. Amstar DMC

Amstar DMC specializes in providing personalized services for corporate events, group travel, and MICE activities. Their offerings include customized tours, airport transfers, and a variety of excursions that highlight the natural beauty and cultural richness of Saint Martin.

Services:

• Airport transfers and meet-and-greet services
• Corporate retreats and team-building activities
• Customized tours and excursions
• VIP hospitality services

3. Artemia Group of Companies

Artemia Group offers a wide array of services including ground handling, logistics, and bespoke event planning. They are well-equipped to handle corporate retreats, conferences, and incentive programs, ensuring a seamless experience from arrival to departure.

Services:

• Ground handling and logistics
• Event and activity planning
• Corporate retreats and motivational programs
• Culinary tours and dine-around programs
• Community service programs for team-building

How to Reach Saint Martin

By Air:

• Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM): This is the main airport serving the island, with daily flights from major cities in the U.S., Europe, and the Caribbean.
• Grand Case L’Esperance Airport (SFG): This airport caters to regional flights within the French Caribbean.

By Sea:

• Ferries: Regular ferry services connect Saint Martin to neighboring islands like Saba, Sint Eustatius, Anguilla, and St. Barths.
• Cruise Ships: Saint Martin is a popular cruise destination, with many ships docking near the capital, Philipsburg.

By Yacht:

• Yachting and Sailing: The island is a key yachting hub with facilities in Simpson Bay Lagoon, Philipsburg, Marigot, and Anse Marcel.