Travelling to Saint Martin? Need Vaccinations?
The smallest land mass in the world to be divided between two countries, St. Maarten has become one of the Caribbean’s most sought after destinations, for its miles of unspoiled beaches and coves. In the seaside Dutch capital, Philipsburg, Caribbean hospitality meets European sophistication. Enjoy fine restaurants, cafes and clubs, as well as world-class shopping, and historic colonial relics surrounding the city. Sun yourself on fascinating Maho beach, while planes zip just overhead on takeoff or landing.
On the French side, St. Martin, try horseback riding at the Bayside riding club, then dine in style at one of Grand Case’s top eateries along the seaside boulevard. Your first stop on your way to St. Maarten-St. Martin should be a visit to our Travel Health Clinic, four to eight weeks before departure, so that you will be completely safe and up-to-date with the Vaccinations you need for Sint Maarten-St. Martin.
What Vaccinations do I need for Travel to Saint Martin?
Travellers to Saint Martin are generally advised the following vaccinations:
Diphtheria Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Tetanus Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Polio Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Typhoid Vaccination
In addition, depending upon your itinerary, where you are travelling, length of travel and your occupational and lifestyle risks, you may also require vaccinations for the following:
Have a look at our pricing table for information about the cost of the travel vaccinations required for Saint Martin. If you are travelling further in the region, you may also wish to check what vaccinations you require for neighbouring countries in the Caribbean.
Further Travel Health Advice for St Martin
Heat and Humidity
St. Maarten has a rather temperate climate with constant breezes from the trade winds, but it is important to take care when basking in the sun. You will need a good sun block lotion with SPF 20 or higher. Apply liberally and often, whether at the beach or on tour.
Drinking Water
The tap water in St. Maarten is purified and considered safe to drink. However, spring water is cheap and readily available. Bring lots of water with you wherever you go in St. Maarten, and replenish fluids throughout the day.
Food and Drink
Often called The Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean, St. Maarten is noted for the choice and quality of its restaurants. French, Caribbean, Creole, and West Indian are the most popular but others are available in any number of St. Maarten’s more than 500 restaurants. Lobster and other seafood specialties top the list, and local chefs continually find new exciting ways to prepare them. Try stuffed crab, Chiquetaille made with avocado and shredded spicy codfish, or Blaff, seafood simmered in seasoned soup. Fresh juices are made from guava, mango, and tamarind, and the National drink is guava berry liqueur. Sip a ‘ti punch aperitif, made from fruit infused 100 proof rum while you take in one of St. Maarten’s world famous sunsets on Simpson Bay.
Seeking Treatment Abroad
Should you require health care in St. Maarten, there are two medical centres, one on the French side, the other on the Dutch, both staffed with qualified trained personnel. There are also pharmacies across the island.. It is important that you arrange in advance to have enough money with you to pay for any health care you might need at these medical centres.
Travel and Health Insurance
Protect yourself, and your family, with comprehensive travel health insurance which will cover your intended itinerary and any potentially risky activities, such as diving and snorkelling.
St. Maarten
Aside from observing the normal precautions, visitors are safe on both sides of St. Maarten.