The Golden Book of Sint Maarten and neighboring islands 14th edition 2025

www.goldenbooksxm.sx

PREFACE FROM THE HONORABLE PRIME MINISTER OF SINT MAARTEN

In the cherished records of Sint Maarten, few traditions hold as much promise for reflection and aspiration as the pages of the Golden Book of St. Maarten. It is both an emblem of our collective journey and a beacon that illuminates the boundless opportunities that lie ahead. It is with immense pride and profound gratitude that I, as Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, pen this preface for a volume that will continue to serve as a repository of our shared milestones, dreams, and aspirations.

The Golden Book represents more than a chronicle of our achievements; it is a living testament to the indomitable spirit of the people of Sint Maarten. From the resilience we displayed in the face of adversity to the unwavering sense of community that defines us, this book captures the heartbeat of a country that has risen time and again to build a brighter future.

Our island, nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, is a place of extraordinary beauty and cultural vibrancy. Yet, what truly makes Sint Maarten remarkable is its people—a tapestry of diverse talents, traditions, and perspectives woven together in harmony. The Golden Book stands as an enduring tribute to their contributions, celebrating those who have left an indelible mark on our society and those who continue to shape our destiny.

Beyond its role as a reflection of our past and present, the Golden Book serves as a dynamic resource for investment, trade, and tourism. It provides invaluable insights and information for those who seek to engage with Sint Maarten, whether as partners in economic ventures, advocates of sustainable development, or admirers of our unique culture and natural beauty.

This volume also reminds us that progress is not merely measured by the strides we take but by the legacy we leave for future generations. It is an invitation to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and imagine the possibilities of tomorrow. Let these pages inspire leaders, innovators, and dreamers to chart a course that upholds the values of integrity, unity, and resilience.

As we embark on this next chapter in our country’s history, let the Golden Book of St. Maarten serve as both a compass and a mirror. A compass to guide us toward a future of sustainable growth and shared prosperity. A mirror to remind us of the values and stories that ground us in our identity.

May this cherished collection continue to reflect the brilliance of Sint Maarten and inspire every reader to dream big, act boldly, and carry forward the legacy of our beloved country.

With steadfast hope and abiding faith,

Hon. Luc F. E. Mercelina, MD Prime Minister/ Minister of General Affairs

THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

Hon. Luc F. E. Mercelina, MD Prime Minister/ Minister of General Affairs

Hon. Patrice T. Gumbs

Minister of Housing & Spatial Planning, Environment & Infrastructure/ Deputy Prime Minister

Hon. Marinka J. Gumbs Minister of Finance

Hon. Grisha S. Heyliger Marten

Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications

Hon. Melissa D. Gumbs

Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports

Hon. Nathalie Tackling Minister of Justice

Hon. Richinel S.J. Brug Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour

Hon. drs. Gracita R. Arrindell Minister Plenipotentiary, Sint Maarten House, The Hague, the Netherlands

(to be filled at a later date)

Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary, Sint Maarten House, The Hague, the Netherlands

THE PARLIAMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

There are seven (7) factions represented in the 15-member chamber of parliament (as of November 2024). The seven factions are the Democratic Party (DP) which has three (3) seats, Nation Opportunity Wealth (N.O.W.) one (1) seat, Unified Resilient Sint Maarten Movement (URSM) three (3) seats, National Alliance (NA) three (3) seats, the Party for Progress (PFP) with two (2) seats, Soualiga Action Movement (SAM) with one (1) seat, and the United People’s (UP) party with two (2) seats.

The following make-up of the Parliament of Sint Maarten as well as that of the Presidium is as of November 30, 2024.

MEMBERS OF THE PRESIDIUM

Sarah Wescot Williams (DP) President & Member of Parliament

Sjamira Roseburg (URSM) 1st Vice President & Member of Parliament

Ludmila de Weever (PFP) 2nd Vice President & Member of Parliament

Other Members of Parliament in the 15-member Chamber:

Viren Vinod Kotai (DP) Member of Parliament

Raeyhon A. Peterson (PFP) Member of Parliament

Dimar C. Labega (DP) Member of Parliament

Egbert Doran (NA) Member of Parliament

Ardwell Irion (NA) Member of Parliament

Darryl York (NA) Member of Parliament

Franklin A. Meyers (SAM) Member of Parliament

Christopher L. Wever (URSM) Member of Parliament

Veronica Jansen Webster (URSM) Member of Parliament

Lyndon C.J. Lewis (N.O.W.) Member of Parliament

Omar Ottley (UP) Member of Parliament

Francisco Lacroes (UP) Member of Parliament

COUNTRY SINT MAARTEN GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE & MINISTRIES

GOVERNOR GENERAL

COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

MINISTRY OF GENERAL AFFAIRS

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE,YOUTH & SPORTS

MINISTRY OF HEALTH, SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT & LABOUR

MINISTRY OF TOURISM, ECONOMIC AFFAIRS, TRANSPORT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HOUSING, SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT, ENVIRONMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE

MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY

Seat of Government:

P.O. Box 943

Government Administration Building Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island Philipsburg Sint Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-2233 / 542-2534 / 542-2535 / 542-4300 / 542-4305

PARLIAMENT

CABINET OF THE MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY

Welcome to the Office of the Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten, also known as the St. Maarten House. The Minister Plenipotentiary is the official, and permanent representation of the government of St. Maarten in the Netherlands. In this capacity the Minister Plenipotentiary forms part of the Kingdom Council of Ministers which consists of the Ministers of the Dutch government together with the Ministers Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten, Aruba and Curaçao.

OUR VISION

The Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten in The Hague is driven to achieve excellence and will function as Ambassadors for St. Maarten through proper, diplomatic and professional representation.

OUR MISSION

To realize and support the interests of the Government and citizens of St. Maarten in the Netherlands.

To build and promote a sustainable and developed country, that meets the needs of this generation and generations to come, which will lead to a prosperous and safe nation for all.

To represent in the Kingdom Council while maintaining the highest and most transparent standards.

To advocate economic opportunities on the island.

To inspire remigration to the island to build a stronger economy, by connecting people to tangible job opportunities

To assist in building the best destination product.

The Cabinet is further commissioned to handle in the best interest of St. Maarten in aspects relating to:

• political affairs;

• economic affairs an EU;

• development cooperation;

• consular affairs;

• education and cultural affairs.

OUR CORE VALUES

• Promotion of our country’s dignity in the Netherlands

• Promotion of the full development of St. Maarteners in the Netherlands

• Acknowledge, strengthen and build engagement with the St. Maarten diaspora in the Netherlands

• Partnerships and alliances with municipalities, communities, institutions, embassies and businesses in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and European Union

Contact: Prinsessegraccht 7, 2514 AN The Hague, Netherlands Tel: 070 215 6067

Email: info@kgmsxm.nl Web: kgmsxm.com

ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

INTRODUCTION

As of October 10, 2010, Sint Maarten became a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. On October 9, 2010, the Netherlands Antilles in which Sint Maarten was one of five Island Territories ceased to exist as a country within the Dutch Kingdom. The Kingdom of the Netherlands now comprises of the following countries, The Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten. The three other islands, Saba, St. Eustatius and Bonaire are now public entities of the Netherlands and have a similar status as Dutch municipalities.

As a country, Sint Maarten enjoys its own autonomy. In this respect, it is free to enact its own laws providing that these laws do not conflict with the laws of a higher nature (Kingdom) or with international treaties of which the Netherlands are cosignatory.

THE GOVERNMENT

As an island territory, Sint Maarten was governed by the Island Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles, and in accordance herewith the administration units of the Island Territory were: the Island Council, Executive Council and Lt. Governor.

As of October 10, 2010, Sint Maarten is now governed by its own Constitution and the following institutions of government: Governor as Head of State, the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister, and the Parliament.

THE PARLIAMENT

The parliament is the highest legislative body of country Sint Maar ten and represents the entire population of the Dutch side of the island. The parliament consists of 15 members who are elected for a four-year period.

The session year of parliament commences on the second Tuesday of September. During this session, the Governor provides an explanation of the policy to be pursued by the government.

The parliament elects a President and Deputy President from its own numbers. The President of Parliament shall open and close the session year of the Parliament.

ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

The Council of Ministers comprises of seven ministers. The ministers are answerable to the Parliament. The Prime Minister chairs the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers shall debate and determine government policy in order to promote the cohesion of that policy. If the Governor attends a meeting of the Council of Ministers, he/she shall do so in an advisory capacity.

The Prime Minister and other ministers shall be appointed and dismissed by national ordinance. If a minister no longer enjoys the confidence of the Parliament, he/she shall surrender his/ her office.

The Minister Plenipotentiary must have the Dutch nationality. This person represents the island in the Kingdom Council of Ministers meetings in The Hague, The Netherlands. The minister also has his/her office in the Netherlands under the banner of the “Sint Maarten House.”

Each minister heads one of seven ministries which are established by national ordinance.

SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

Sint Maarten is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with full autonomy in internal affairs. The Kingdom Government

is responsible for defense and foreign affairs. The Queen of the Netherlands is Head of State and is represented by the Governor.

Other institutions of government are the Council of Advice, the General Audit Chamber and Ombudsman.

THE JUDICIARY

The courts forming part of the judiciary are: the Court at First Instance; the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curacao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba. The jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the Netherlands in relation to legal cases in Sint Maarten shall be regulated by Kingdom Law.

The responsibilities of the judiciary are: the adjudication of disputes on civil matters; the trial of criminal offenses; and the adjudication of disputes on administrative law matters.

CONSTITUTIONAL COURT

The duty of the court is to assess the compatibility of any applicable statutory regulations. The constitutional court consists of three members, including a president and a vice president, and three substitute members.

© Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN

The Governor is, in his capacity as representative of the King, the head of the government of Sint Maarten. As of October 10, 2010, Sint Maarten, as a country, is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is comprised of Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curacao, and the Netherlands. In spite of the many differences between the countries of the Kingdom there is still a unifying bond. This bond is partly reflected in the role of the Governor as representative of the King and Kingdom Government on Sint Maarten.

The Governor informs you about his activities, tasks, and responsibilities via the website of the Governor of Sint Maarten: www.kabgsxm.com. You will also find information about the Cabinet of the Governor. This is the organization that supports the Governor in the execution of his function. At the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten you can, among others, apply for the Dutch nationality through naturalization or option. The Cabinet of the Governor also issues visas and travel documents such as passports and emergency documents. You can find information on these and other products of the Cabinet of the Governor on this website.

THE GOVERNOR

Personal life and education

Council of Advice as the Secretary Director. In 2015 Ajamu Baly became a board member of the Stichting Justitiële Inrichtingen Sint Maarten.

Ajamu G. Baly, a son of the soil, was born and raised in Sint Maarten. He was brought up with much love for his island and was educated by his environment with the understanding that you must study and work for what you want to achieve in life.

After completing his education on the island at the Sister Borgia elementary school and subsequently the Milton Peters College, he moved to the Netherlands to start his tertiary education in Law at the University van Amsterdam (UVA). Soon after receiving his law degree, Ajamu Baly returned to his island to start giving back to his community.

Ajamu Baly worked at the Ministry of Justice at the department of Judicial Affairs, during this time in early 2012 he became a member and later Chairman of the Study Financing appeal committee. In January of 2014 Ajamu Baly transitioned to the

Two years later in august of 2017 Ajamu Baly joined the CBCS as a member of the supervisory board. This year In February of 2022 Ajamu Baly was appointed as Deputy Judge of Instruction at the Joint Court of Justice.

As of October 10, 2022, Ajamu Baly will serve his country as the Second Governor of the island of Sint Maarten. Ajamu Baly is aside from a Sint Maarten professional a dedicated family man, a son a husband and father of (two children) a son and a daughter.

AUTHORITIES OF THE GOVERNOR

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is comprised of four countries: Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curacao, and the Netherlands since October 10, 2010. On that date, Sint Maarten acquired the status of country within the Kingdom. As a result, Sint Maarten has its own Governor as of that day.

L to R: His Excellency Governor Ajamu Baly and Acting Governor, Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake

THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN

In accordance with the regulation of the Governor the authorities of the Governor are divided in powers assigned to him by law as an organ of the country Sint Maarten and as an organ of the Kingdom.

THE GOVERNOR AS ORGAN OF THE COUNTRY SINT MAARTEN

As organ of the country of Sint Maarten the Governor represents the King of the Netherlands, King Willem Alexander, on Sint Maarten and is as such the head of the government of Sint Maarten. As head of government the Governor is immune, and the ministers are responsible. The Governor together with the ministers forms the Government of Sint Maarten and as such exercise’s executive powers.

The executive powers are related to:

1. The establishment and promulgation of national ordinances and the signing of national decrees, containing general measures.

2. The appointment, suspension and dismissal of civil servants and the establishment of their remuneration;

3. The management of the finances and domains (properties) of Sint Maarten;

4. The granting of remission of sentence and dispensations;

5. Granting permission for military aircraft and vessels of a foreign power to enter airspace or territorial waters of Sint Maarten.

Many high officials, when accepting their official duties, take the oath or the declaration and affirmation in the hands of the Governor. This applies to, among others, ministers, members of Parliament, members of the Council of Advice, members of the General Audit Chamber, the Attorney General, and judges.

At the beginning of the new Parliamentary year, on the second Tuesday of September, the Governor delivers the Governors address in a meeting of Parliament convened for that purpose. The Governor’s address is an outline of the envisaged plans and policies of the Government. The Prime Minister is responsible for the contents of the address.

The Governor is also the chairman of the Council of Advice. In that capacity he has an advisory function. The vice-chair is responsible for the daily management. The Council of Advice

advises the Government and Parliament on (draft) legislation. The Governor also participates in the legislative branch of Government of Sint Maarten. The Governor presents draft national ordinances for approval to the Parliament and enacts them, after approval is obtained. Subsequently, he sees to it that the enacted national ordinances are promulgated.

THE GOVERNOR AS ORGAN OF THE KINGDOM

As organ of the Kingdom the Governor represents the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Governor in this capacity is responsible to the Government of the Kingdom. The Governor is authorized, within the limits of the law, to act on behalf of the Kingdom government. As organ of the Kingdom the Governor, in regard to Sint Maarten, guards the general interest of the kingdom, is responsible for the implementation of Kingdom Laws, of General administrative measures and of international treaties and oversees compliance therewith. This applies to the following kingdom affairs:

1. Maintaining the independence and the defense of the Kingdom (Commander of Armed Forces);

2. Foreign relations;

3. Dutch nationality;

4. The regulation of the knighthoods (The Royal honors)

5. Provide for the realization and supervision of the observance of kingdom laws, general administrative measures and international agreements.

In this regard citizens of Sint Maarten mainly come in contact with the Governor through the implementation of the Passport Law (issuing of travel documents), the implementation of the regulation issuing visas (Granting visas), the implementation of the Law on Dutch citizenship (naturalization and option), and the awarding of the annual Royal decorations on King’s Day.

The Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten Falcon Drive 3, Harbour View, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Consultation Hours (by appointment only): Monday - Friday 9am - 11am

Telephone Consultation Hours: Monday - Friday, 2pm - 3pm, Tel: +1 (721) 542 - 1199

Contact: Tel: +1 (721) 542 - 1160 | Fax: +1 (721) 542 - 1187

Email: kabinet@kabgsxm.com Website: www.kabgsxm.com

INTEGRITY CHAMBER

The Integrity Chamber was formally established by law in 2018 as an independent administrative body (ZBO), and is now embedded in the administrative field of Sint Maarten. It is a modern institution in a young country. Its purpose is to contribute to the proper functioning of the public administration by promoting integrity within government and its entities, including government-owned companies.

MISSION AND VISION:

It is the Integrity Chamber’s mission to instill the need for integrity awareness and ethical behavior within Government and the community, and by doing so, establishing and maintaining a level of trust internally in our society and outwardly in terms of international relations.

It is the Integrity Chamber’s vision to instill the continuous importance of personal and public integrity within all levels of governance, businesses and the public.

CORE TASKS

The National Ordinance Integrity Chamber outlines the tasks and authorities of the Integrity Chamber. The organization’s core tasks are:

To render advices and make proposals

To investigate suspected misconducts

To strengthen awareness about the importance of integrity

ADVICES AND PROPOSALS

The Integrity Chamber is tasked with rendering advices and proposals on policies that will improve integrity in the Country. These are executed on the Integrity Chamber’s own initiative or at the request of the Prime Minister, the responsible minister, or Parliament.

Through the rendering of advices and giving proposals, the Integrity Chamber strives to fill gaps and address procedures with the aim of bettering the functioning of administrative bodies (government and government entities, including government-

INTEGRITY CHAMBER

owned companies) and ultimately the overall administrative infrastructure of the country.

The Integrity Chamber also has a special advisory role in the form of consultation. The Chamber must be heard (consulted) in cases where a national ordinance prescribes, in all exceptional cases of a significant nature, and in any other case in which Government or Parliament deems it necessary. Examples of this include draft laws and regulations on the subject of integrity.

INVESTIGATIONS

The Integrity Chamber has the authority to investigate suspected misconducts within administrative bodies. The misconduct relates to an act or omission that is contrary to norms and values, legal provisions, or other legal obligations, through which the interest of society or the proper functioning of the administrative body could be harmed.

Investigations can be started on the Integrity Chamber’s own initiative or in response to a notification of suspected misconduct. Anyone (resident or non-resident) can file a notification of suspected misconduct with the Integrity Chamber via the notification form on the website.

AWARENESS

The Integrity Chamber continuously provides information to strengthen awareness on the importance of integrity in the community.

Awareness is an important vehicle for positive change. Continuous promotion of integrity through awareness campaigns encourage, develop and unite the public and reinforce the belief that integrity is everyone’s responsibility. Promoting conduct on ethical values improves societal function and will create a culture of transparency and community.

STRUCTURE MEMBERS

The Integrity Chamber is comprised of three members. Two members are appointed by the Government of Sint Maarten; one on a binding recommendation from the Council of Ministers of Sint Maarten, and the other on a

binding recommendation from the Council of Ministers of The Netherlands. The third member, also president, is appointed by the Kingdom Council of Ministers on a binding recommendation of the first two members.

SECRETARIAT

The Integrity Chamber is supported by a secretariat, headed by a director. The secretariat carries out the daily activities of the Chamber. The staff of the secretariat, including the director, are solely accountable to the members of the Integrity Chamber.

SUPERVISORY COUNCIL

The Integrity Chamber also has a Supervisory Council comprised of three members.

For more on the Integrity Chamber’s role and functions, visit the official website at www.integritychamber.sx.

THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN

ORIGIN

: In 1809 the institution of Ombudsman was born in Sweden where the Ombudsman was appointed by Parliament. The institution was charged with safeguarding the rights of its citizens by examining citizens’ complaints and to work in close contact with the highest authority in the land.

Countries in all parts of the world have followed the example of the Scandinavian model, even calling the new institution by the same name, Ombudsman. Some Spanish countries refer to the institution as “Defonsor del Pueblo”, the French as “Médiateur de la République”, and others refer to the institution as the “Public Protector”. An added dimension to the institution as it evolves is one of Human Rights Commission.

ESTABLISHMENT

The Kingdom of the Netherlands: The Institution was established in the Netherlands in 1982 with a National Ombudsman, followed by the appointment in 1987 of an Ombudsman of Amsterdam; in 2003 an Ombudsman was appointed on Curaçao, and per October 10th 2010 the Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was appointed.

The Ombudsman Sint Maarten was founded on October 10th, 2010 by National Ordinance Ombudsman (AB 2010 no.20). As one of the High Councils of State its legal origin is founded in the Constitution of Sint Maarten (article 78) and as such its independence is safeguarded. The first Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was Dr. Rachnilda (Nilda) J.A. Arduin.

In 1978 the International Ombudsman Institute was established, and in 2002 the Caribbean Ombudsman formed the Caribbean Ombudsman Association. The Ombudsman of Sint Maarten is a member of both organizations. In 2012 the Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was elected to be one of the regional directors of the International Ombudsman Institute, representing the Latin and Caribbean region on the Board.

Private companies, universities and non-profit organizations in other countries also have ombudsman offices to deal with internal complaints; these report to the CEO or board of directors, whereas an ombudsman who deals with complaints against government bodies or entities charged with public authority, in general reports to the Parliament of the country.

ORDINANCES GOVERNING THE TASKS AND

COMPETENCES OF THE

CONSTITUTION OF SINT MAARTEN (AB 2010 NO. L);

NATIONAL ORDINANCE OMBUDSMAN (AB 2010 NO. 20);

NO.29)

THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN

COMPETENCIES OF THE OMBUDSMAN

The role and competencies of the Ombudsman are regulated in the Constitution of Sint Maarten, the National Ordinance Ombudsman and the National Ordinance Constitutional Court.

THE INVESTIGATIVE ROLE: “PROTECTOR OF THE CITIZENS.”

The Ombudsman is authorized to investigate complaints filed against a civil servant, government body or government entity charged with public authority for behavior or conduct exhibited in the execution of their function.

The complaint can be filed by a natural person or an entity.

The Ombudsman can initiate an investigation on her own when the Ombudsman is of the opinion that certain practices or behavior are improper.

The Ombudsman investigates the conduct of government in the relationship with its citizens that goes beyond the

written laws: The Ombudsman investigates “propriety” in accordance with the rules of conduct /standards of proper conduct developed to promote ‘good governance’.

The Ombudsman can also initiate an investigation on her own.

ROLE IN THE LAWMAKING PROCESS: “GUARDIAN OF THE CONSTITUTION.”

According to the Constitution only the Ombudsman can submit new laws and regulations, that seem to be in conflict with the Constitution, for partial or total annulment to the Constitutional Court. This has to be done in writing within 6 weeks after ratification of the law. Exceptions: Uniformed laws (in association with Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten) and Laws of an urgent nature.

The Ombudsman has the authority in accordance with the National Ordinance to:

• investigate complaints or own motions

• intervene to find practical solutions within a short period of time

• issue a ruling after investigation

• provide recommendations to government; measures to be taken to address a situation in general

• stop an investigation

• inform Parliament immediately after investigation

• publish its findings, conclusions and anonymous reports (without names of the complainants

Contact: Bureau Ombudsman

E. Camille Richardson Street #13, P.O. Box 188, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: (+1)721 542-1250/ 542-1231/ 542-1243

Fax: (+1)721 5421240

Email: info@ombudsmansxm.com

Web: www.ombudsmansxm.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

Sint Maarten attained its current status as Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on October 10th , 2010 (10-10-10) through the restructuring of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Sint Maarten is a Parliamentary Democracy with autonomy regarding internal affairs. The Government of the Netherlands is responsible for Defense, Foreign Affairs, and the Judiciary.

The Council of Ministers consist of the Prime Minister and six Ministers that are appointed for a four year term and governs the executive administration, along with the Governor of Sint Maarten. The Governor, who represents the Dutch Kingdom, serves for a six year term, sanctions appointments and governmental activities.The Minister Plenipotentiary in the Netherlands is the representative of the Government of Sint Maarten in the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Council of Ministers are responsible for the following seven ministries, Ministry of General Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, Ministry of Public Health , Social Development & Labor, Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication.

CLIMATE

The island enjoys sunshine all year round. Average wind speed of 4.1 m/s; average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) in the winter and 86 degrees (30 degrees) in the summer.

The sun shines for approximately eight hours a day and the average rainfall annually is approximately 40 inches. The water temperature is approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.6 degrees Celsius). Gentle trade winds keep the humidity low.

EarthScape ImageGraphy / Shutterstock.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

POPULATION

The population of Sint Maarten is approximately 60,400 as of the end of 2016 comprising of more than 150 nationalities. Apart from persons born on Curacao, Aruba, Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire, Sint Maarten and Dutch nationals, the 10 countries with the highest populations on the Dutch side of the island are: Dominican Republic, Haiti, Dominica, Jamaica, Guyana, India, Great Britain, France, St. Kitts & Nevis, and St. Lucia according to statistical information provided by the Civil Registry Department.

TIME ZONE

St. Maarten is on Atlantic Standard Time, which is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) minus four (4) hours.

LANGUAGES

The official languages are Dutch and English as stated in the Constitution of Sint Maarten.

CURRENCY

The official currency of Sint Maarten at this time remains the Netherlands Antillean Florin (Guilder; Naf./Fls.) and is fixed to the U.S. Dollar at an exchange rate of 1.79 and 1.82.

The official currency of the North side of the island is the Euro. No official rate exists. The Euro value depends on the international exchange rate and is between 1.25 and 1.40 US$. The US Dollar is widely accepted on both sides of the island.

ELECTRICITY

110 volts A.C. (50 cycles) on the Dutch side or 208/220 volts (60 cycles) on the French side.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Telephone service is all over as well as cellular phone and internet service. The island is well connected with the international community.

2025 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Day Wed. Jan. 01, 2025

Good Friday Fri. Apr. 18, 2025

Easter Sunday Sun. Apr. 20, 2025

Easter Monday Mon. Apr. 21, 2025

King’s Day Sat. Apr. 26, 2025

Carnival Day Wed. Apr. 30, 2025

Labour Day Thu. May 01, 2025

Ascension Day Thu. May 29, 2025

Whit Sunday Sun. Jun. 08, 2025

Emancipation Day Tue. Jul. 01, 2025

Constitution Day Mon. Oct. 13, 2025

Sint Maarten Day Tue. Nov. 11, 2025

Christmas Day Thu. Dec. 25, 2025

Boxing Day Fri. Dec. 26, 2025

All government offices and businesses are officially closed on the following annual public holidays: Copies of these National Public Holidays Schedules may be obtained via the Government website www.sintmaartengov.org

CONTACTS

USEFUL ADDRESSES & CONTACTS

Government Administration Building

Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ................................................. 542-2534 / 2535 / 4305 / 4300

Cabinet of the Governor General

Falcon Drive 3, Harbor View, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 542-1160

Fax: 542-1187

Email: kabinet@kabgsxm.com

Web: www.kabgsxm.com

Bureau of Foreign Relations & Protocol

#10 C.A. Cannegieter Street, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-0640

Web: ........... www.sintmaartengov.org/government/az/depart

Management Resources

Administration Building, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 542-8360

Fax: ............................................................................................ 543-7935

Department of Communications

Harbor View, Jobco Building #2, level 1, Unit 4E, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-4119 / 543-1162

Fax: 543-1169

Email: dcomm@sintmaartengov.org

Legal Affairs

Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 520-0031 / 0086

Parliament of St. Maarten

Parliament Building, Wilhelmina Str. #1, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: .............................................................................. 542-0812 / 2929

Fax: ............................................................................................ 542-0306

Email: .............................................................. info@sxmparliament.org

Labour & Social Affairs

Walter Nisbeth Road #57, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 543-7509 / 0170 / 7510 / 3561

Fax: 543-7511

Email: labor-affairs@sintmaartengov.org

Web: www.sxmlaboraffairs.com

Economy & Tourism

Walter Nisbeth Road 57, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 543-7821

Fax: ............................................................................................ 542-3111

Department of Tourism

Front Street #28, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 549-0200

Email: ..................................................... info@vacationstmaarten.com

Web: .........................................................www.vacationstmaarten.com

Department of Economic Affairs

Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-2233 / 2535 / 4300 / 2534 / 4305

INFORMATION

CONTACTS

Department of Business License & Permits

Bico Building, Zout Steeg 3, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-2986

Fax: 542-7822

Department of Finance

Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 542-8360

The Chamber of Commerce

Cannegieter Street 11, P.O. Box 454, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: .................................................................... 542-3590 / 542-3595

Fax: ............................................................................................ 542-3512

BANKING

Sint Maarten offers highly international banking, communication and professional services that are geared at promoting the island as an international center. Below you will find a listing of some of our banks that could inform you on different encumbrances such as the exchange rate, interest rates for loans etc.

Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten

P.O. Box 193, Nisbeth Road #25, Pondfill, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel:............................................................................................... 542-3520

Fax:.............................................................................................. 542-4307

Email: .................................................................... info@centralbank.cw

Any additional information that you may require can be obtained by contacting the following numbers: Tel: 542-2233 Fax: 542-4884 at the Government Administration Building Reception Desk.

Central Mortgage Bank

WJA Nisbeth Road 97 A, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-0442

Fax: 542-0443

Republic Bank

Back Street #62, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-2262 / 3317

Fax: 542-2435

Email: .......................................................... republicbank.an@rfhl.com

Republic Bank

29 Airport Road, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................. 544-3390 / 3392

Fax: ............................................................................................ 544-3396

Email: .......................................................... republicbank.an@rfhl.com

First Caribbean International Bank

Back Street 38, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 542-3511

Fax: 542-4531

Web: .................................................................................... www.cibc.com

Windward Islands Bank Ltd.

Head Office, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................. 546-2942

Fax: 542-4761

Website:...................................................................... www.wib-bank.net

Orco Bank

Union Road 139 f, Union Plaza, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten

Tel: 544-4744

Fax: 544-4745

Email: ...................................................................... info@orcobank.com

RBC Royal Bank

C.A. Cannegieter Street 24, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-5908

Fax: 542-5964

Web: ................................................................... www.rbcroyalbank.com

OTHER CONTACTS

AIRPORTS

Princess Juliana International Airport

Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, P.O. Box 2027

Tel: 546-7542 / 7777

Fax: ............................................................................. 546-7542 / 7550

Email: info@sxmairport.com

Esperance Grand Case Airport

Highway of Hope, 97150 Grand Case, Saint Martin

Tel: 590 27 11 00

Fax:...................................................................................... 590 87 09 71

PORT ST. MAARTEN

A.C Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities, J. Yrausquin Boulevard, Harbor Village Suite #13A, Point Blanche, Sint Maarten

Chief Executive Officer Mark Mingo

Email: ........................................ mark_mingo@portofstmaarten.com

Tel:................................................................................ 542-8504 / 8503

Fax 542-8506

Email: .................................................... comments@portstmaarten.sx

CONTACTS

GEBE

Water and Electricity Company

Tel: 542-2213

Fax:.............................................................................................. 542-4810

24/24 Emergency:.................................................. 1 (844) 432-3213

CARIBSERVE.NET

Codville Webster Road 2, Suite 3, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-0101

Fax:.............................................................................................. 542-4229

TELEM GROUP

Soualiga Bldg. #5, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel:............................................................................................... 546-0200

Fax 543-7737

Website: www.telemgroup.sx

SMITCOMS

Falcon Drive # 3, Harbour View, Sint Maarten

Tel:............................................................................................... 542-9140

Fax: 542-9141

UTS

Codville Webster Road 2, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-0101

Fax:.............................................................................................. 542-3274

Phone Card Info Number: 127

St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association

W.J.A. Nisbeth Road 33A, P.O. Box 486, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 542-0108

Fax:.............................................................................................. 542-0107

E-mail: info@shta.com

Website: www.shta.com

Consulate General Dominican Republic

Emmaplein 1, Suite B, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel:................................................................................ 542-0338 / 0339

Fax:.............................................................................................. 542-0337

Immigration Service

Princess Juliana International Airport

Tel:................................................................................ 543-0355 / 0353

Fax: 543-0386

Email: ............................................. immigration@sintmaartengov.org

Post Office

N. Debrot Street 2, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel:............................................................................................... 542-2947

Fax: 542-3308

SXM Notary Richards

Font Street #5, Unit 4, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 542-6817

Email: ......................................................... info@sxmnotaryrichards.sx

Web: www.sxmnotaryrichards.sx

Notary Boekhoudt

Professional Office Park, Osprey Drive 1, Unit 2-B, Point Blanche, Sint Maarten

Tel:............................................................................................... 542-9926

Email: contact@notaryboekhoudt.com

Web: www.notaryboekhoudt.com

Notary Mingo

Fouress Building Suite 4D, Emmaplein, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel:....................................................................... 542-3556 / 542-2684

Email: info@notarymingo.com

Web: www.notarymingo.com

Notary Tjon Ajong & Associates

Front Street 5, Suite 4, P.O. Box 751, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel:....................................................................... 554-5095 / 542-2027

Email: ............................................................. general@notarysxm.com

Web: www.notarysxm.com

BUSINESS LICENSE

THE ESTABLISHMENT OF YOUR COMPANY ON ST. MAARTEN

At the time of an establishment of a company on St. Maarten, you will need to decide the organization form of your company. You can choose for a Sole Proprietor (One Man Business) or to incorporate the business. (Incorporation is the registration of a company by notarial act). St. Maarten has one legal body that is the most commonly used for incorporation of companies which is the Limited Liability Company (N.V.)

There are also other legal bodies on St. Maarten, e.g. the Private Limited Liability Company (B.V.), Partnership Firm (V.O.F.), Limited Partnership (Commanditaire vennootschap), Foundation (Stichting), and Association (Vereeniging).

In principal, any business on St. Maarten must have a business license. Only businesses, which are one-man businesses owned by people born in the Netherlands Antilles, do not need a business license. Here you will find information about the business license, the management license, the zoning plan and other permits and licenses you will need to start and to operate your company.

SOLE PROPRIETORS

A Sole Proprietor is a business where there is no distinction between the business assets and the personal assets. As owner you will be personally liable for all obligations of the business.

Persons Eligible for a business license to operate a sole proprietorship is:

Persons born in the Netherlands of Dutch nationality residing on Sint Maarten for 10 years or longer.

Persons who are naturalized Dutch.

Persons of foreign nationality registered at the Census office for 10 years or longer.

Persons of foreign nationality married to an Antillean.

Persons with a permanent residence permit.

■ THE BUSINESS LICENSE FOR A SOLE PROPRIETOR:

All sole proprietors who are not owned by people born in the Netherlands Antilles need a business license to operate a business on St. Maarten. This means that Arubans born after 1986 also need a business license.

■ REQUEST PROCEDURE:

A business license for a one-man business can be requested by sending a letter to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten. The letter must mention:

The name of the business

The name of the owner

The nature and objectives of the business

The investment capital

The location of the business

■ THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSES

A letter addressed to the Executive Council requesting a business license. This request should be written in the Dutch language.

A copy of your passport

A copy of your curriculum vitae. (resume)

A copy of your diploma(s) certificate(s) (only needed I case to depict a certain expertise)

A copy of your police record. (not valid after six months)

The exact business location

Your present home or mailing address

Your present telephone number

A copy of Census registration from.

A copy your permanent residency permits.

A copy of your marriage book.

Please take note that any request received by the department that is not sufficiently documented will not be processed.

BUSINESS LICENSE

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES

A limited liability company is a corporate body with shareholders, governed by corporate law and its articles of association.

■ THE

INCORPORATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES:

The incorporation of limited liability companies is done by the execution of a notarial act. The establisher and/or incorporator do not have to be a citizen of the Netherlands Antilles but one of the directors has to be registered on St. Maarten. A limited liability company can have more than one director and needs a business license.

■ THE

BUSINESS LICENSE FOR LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES AND PARTNERSHIPS:

A business license for limited liability companies and partnerships can be requested by sending a letter to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten. The letter must mention:

The name of the business

The name of the owner

The nature and objectives of the business

The investment capital

The place of establishment

■

THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSES:

A letter addressed to the Executive Council requesting a business license. This request should be written in the Dutch language.

A copy of your diploma(s) certificate(s) of director (s) (only needed in case to depict a certain expertise)

A copy of your police record of director (s) with foreign nationality. (not valid after six months)

The exact address of business

Your present home or mailing address

Your present telephone number

Please take note that any request received by the department that is not sufficiently documented will not processed.

NOTARY:

Entrepreneurs that are going to incorporate their company

can also let the notary’s office handle the request procedure for the business and management license including the payment of fees. Incorporation of a business can be done at any notary’s office in the Netherlands Antilles. But the notarial act has to state that the establishment will be done on St. Maarten.

BRANCHES:

Partnerships or limited liability companies, which are already incorporated on the Netherlands Antilles and want to open a branch, do not have to incorporate the branch. They only have to request a business license. All limited liability companies and partnerships e.g. N.V., B.V., Ca., SPA., Ltd, SRL, Inc., incorporated in foreign countries must first incorporate the business on the Netherlands Antilles and then request a business license on St. Maarten.

GRANTING PROCEDURE FOR A BUSINESS LICENSE:

At the granting of the business license the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten is authorized to connect conditions concerning the nature and the place of the business as also concerning the creditworthiness of the applicant and the financing of the business. A business license can be refused in the interest of the public order, peace and general interest of St. Maarten.

THE CHANGING OF DATA OF A BUSINESS LICENSE:

When changes occur in a business e.g. the name or location of a business changes etc. you must request the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten to make changes in your license. Changes can be requested by sending a letter to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten.

■ WE WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS/ INFORMATION FROM YOU:

A letter to the Executive Council requesting the change of your foreign address to your local address

Copy of the company’s business license

Copy of your director’s license

Copy of Census Registration

ZONING PLAN:

know where you may establish your company on St.

BUSINESS LICENSE

Maarten you will have to contact VROMI. They have a Zoning plan stating the location where companies may establish.

MANAGEMENT LICENSE:

All individuals born outside the Netherlands Antilles need a management license in order to start and to operate a business on St. Maarten. The Management license can be requested by letter addressed to the Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten. A Management License is not necessary for an E.Z. (one-man business). The letter must mention:

The name of the business

The name, place and date of birth of the applicant

The nationality of the applicant

The nature and objective of the business

The acquisition of the director’s license does not allow you work on the island; a request must be submitted to the Immigration Department for a residence permit; if granted then you are allowed to work

For some types of businesses an additional license is required: an operational license (example restaurant, hotel/guest, Casino car rental) the request for this license must also be submitted to the Executive Council.

OTHER LICENSES AND PERMITS

Businesses that are going to sell drinks or food and/or rent accommodation also need to request for a beverage and horeca license. Those that do not have a Dutch Nationality must also have a residence and work permit. For more information about these licenses and permits, brochures are available at:

Department of Licenses

Public Vending and Economic Control

Zoutsteeg Streetv #3, Philipsburg

Tel: 1(721) 542-2986

Fax: 1(721) 543-7822

REGISTRATION OF BUSINESSES

After the business and management licenses have been granted, businesses must be registered at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A fee upon inscription.

Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

(Source of information, St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry Website – www.chamberofcommerce.sx - under “Business Registration Guidelines.”)

TAXATION

The Minister of Finance is politically responsible for the correct levying of taxes. Before taxes are implemented on the island, the St. Maarten Parliament must approve them.

PROFIT TAX (CORPORATE INCOME TAX)

A levy of Profit Tax is applicable to corporations as public- and private limited liability companies, limited partnerships, other companies and associations whose capital is divided in shares, cooperatives, mutual guarantee companies, and associations whose capital is not divided in shares, foundations, private fund foundations and trusts that take aim at profit making. The on-shore activities will be considered for tax and the offshore activities will be exempted. The law provides various incentives in order to stimulate investment. These incentives include credits on investments, depreciation acceleration, and tax holidays. (The latter is elaborated on in the tax holiday section of incentives).

WAGE TAX AND INCOME TAX

Wage tax is based on a P.A.Y.E. (Pay As You Earn) system. The employer has the responsibility of deducting wage tax and premiums from the salaries of employees and paying these amounts to the Island Receiver. Income tax is the summary of wage taxes and taxes on any other form of income. Wage tax is viewed as a pre-payment of income tax and is therefore deductible. Below is a table of income tax rates based on an annual income.

The abbreviations A.O.V. and A.W.W. stand for “General Old Age Insurance” and “General Widow’s and Orphan’s insurance”. Both employer and employee have to contribute to social security premiums. The percentages are:

The A.O.V / A.W.W. premiums are paid to the Social Insurance Bank (hereafter: SZV).

MEDICAL INSURANCE PREMIUM ZV/AVBZ

The abbreviations ZV/AVBZ stand for “Health Insurance” and “General Insurance on Special Medical Expenses”. The premium for health insurance is 12.5% and is divided in 8.3% employer contribution and 4.2% employee contribution. The AVBZ is a social insurance against risks that are difficult to insure. This regards illnesses of long duration (chronic), long hospitalization, psychiatric nursing, relief and care of mentally and physically handicapped persons. The premium is 2% of the monthly salary and is divided in 1.5% on the account of the employee and 0.5% on the employer. Just as the wage tax, the employee contribution of the ZV and AVBZ is deducted from the salary of the employee and together with the employers contribution is paid to the SZV and the Receivers respectively.

TAXATION

TURNOVER TAX (TOT)

Turnover Tax is a tax on business-sales realized by entrepreneurs or businesses in accordance with their business. This tax is an indirect tax with the character of a consumption tax and is not imposed on imports.

EXEMPTED ARE AMONG OTHERS:

• The deliveries of goods and rendered services by entrepreneurs/businesses in the off-shore sector;

• The delivery of immovable properties as far as transfer tax (4%) is paid;

• The services of banks and other financial institutions for banking and financial performances with the exception of loans and mortgages, the transfer of money, the saving of stocks and shares and other papers of value;

• The services rendered to entrepreneurs/businesses in the off-shore sector performed by lawyers, legal and tax advisors, accountants, consultants, and notaries;

• Turnover realized on transport services by aircraft or sea vessels.

THE TURNOVER TAX RATE IS 5%:

• Exempted are certain basic necessities (see article 17 of the Turnover tax Ordinance).

• Turnover realized by hotels (for the part of rental of hotel rooms and apartments) are exempted insofar as room tax is paid over the entire revenue of the rentals.

• There are several other exemptions mentioned in article 8 of the Turnover Tax Ordinance.

TAX TABLE ST. MAARTEN 2017

BDO ST. MAARTEN

INSPIRING, EDUCATING AND LEADING AN UNSTOPPABLE MOVEMENT FOR SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICE IN OUR MARKETS WITH PAUL LUNGU – PARTNER BDO SINT MAARTEN.

For most organizations, there is a growing business imperative to address sustainability. The material risks that companies face are broadening and becoming more complex. These mounting risks have led to the emergence of a global sustainability movement, driven by capital markets, governments, communities and various stakeholders. This demand for transparency and accountability in environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters calls for better understanding of the impact of business and industry on the environment and our societies - and an effective response. BDO’s approach to sustainability is underpinned by our WHY – ‘People helping people achieve their dreams’. This guides every action we take to ensure a more sustainable organization so that the way we live our lives today does not negatively impact future generations.

Everything we do at BDO is viewed through a sustainability lens to ensure that we implement and embed the principles of sustainability across all BDO firms as a global initiative and a business imperative.

As a member of the Net Zero Financial Service Providers Alliance, the BDO global network has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions before 2050and halving our emissions by 2030 - in alignment with the Paris Agreement. We are working to measure our carbon baseline and to develop a roadmap detailing carbon emission mitigation strategies for our global organization.

Sustainability is a journey and there will always be more work to be done.We are fully committed to doing everything we can to contribute to the advancement of society, the transparency of business, and the protection of the planet.

SUSTAINABILITY SERVICES

Our client-facing experts help organisations be better, do better, be more efficient, and contribute to a more sustainable future through several products, processes, and tools to help clients in their own sustainability journeys. Smart companies are discovering that it is no longer a choice between going green and growing long-term profits – sustainability is the path to prosperity. For both humanitarian and business reasons, it is imperative that all organisations take action

now and embrace the benefits of a green economy.

We work with clients no matter where they are on their sustainability journey – we are here to guide you through a complex landscape to help you achieve success.

MATERIALITY ANALYSIS, is the foundational activity for the start of reporting. It consists of identifying the primary impacts of economic, environmental and social elements, summarised in a Materiality Matrix. This methodological analysis helps to determine the broader dimensions of the company, defining its strategic role with respect to the sector and the challenges within a national and international context.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT, an activity carried out with the purpose of updating the Materiality Analysis. BDO would propose a strategic engagement programme with key stakeholders to ensure communication and alignment of programme objectives.

‘INTEGRATED THINKING’ aims to look at a business holistically to find value-creation opportunities using a combination of financial and non-financial methods. BDO accompanies the organisation in a journey of value creation including a short, medium, and long-term horizon. Using internationally recognised frameworks, BDO promotes ESG reporting processes that allow the periodic publication of a non-financial report (besides the annual financial report), or an integrated financial report - namely a single annual document containing both financial and non-financial information in accordance with industry standards.

ROLE OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS The SDGs encourage business to make sustainable development a central part of their business strategy to ensure organisations meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of generations to come.

Clients, employees, regulators, local communities, investors and other stakeholders are demanding that businesses take responsibility for sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the needs of generations to come. Organizations that integrate sustainability into their business will likely realize benefits as consumers and stakeholders reward those that demonstrate a social license to operate.

BDO’s range of sustainability resources aim to educate, guide and provide insights into this rapidly evolving global

BDO ST. MAARTEN

transformation. BDO is committed to helping businesses around the world transform for a sustainable future. BDO guides our clients along their sustainability journey with a practical approach focused on value creation and material risk management. The time is now to start your journey with BDO.

the needs of an organization to operate effectively, and to actively pursue its future goals.

While it is impossible to eliminate all risk of a cyber-attack, a well-designed pro-active cyber security program will

BDO’S TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY

A changing environment leads to new opportunities. An increasingly global world needs global services across all business lines and industries. To best support our clients, we will continue to build a strong and robust organization and we will focus on a number of truly global strategies, indispensable when supporting our clients in their own transformation journeys. We will focus on Audit, Tax and Advisory but, just as importantly on Risk & Quality, Technology, Sustainability, Talent and a number of International Business Areas.

Today we live in a data-driven world, one in which we are now confronted with resource scarcity. This shift has driven us to think and work differently. BDO’s commitment to invest in cutting-edge technology, digital transformation and new services has positioned us as a market leader in a world of opportunity. Our firms are now more connected than ever: we share resources to support our clients and we are committed to growing business together.

BDO’S GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY PRACTICE

As a business grows, information sharing grows along with it – with vendors, contractors, partners, and clients. And every one of these digital relationships presents a new set of cyber vulnerabilities. The need for security and the way in which it is implemented must be balanced, thoughtfully, against

minimize the negative impact on both short- and long-term business goals.

BDO’s Global Cybersecurity practice is comprised of professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds, including experienced IT, operations, and data privacy consultants, as well as forensic technology, business advisory, and accounting practitioners. We are built to provide comprehensive, customized services for each client, focusing on your specific operating model, technical demands, regulatory environment, and industry dynamics. Whether it’s financial services, healthcare, retail, natural resources, or any other industry –we understand your needs.

BDO ST. MAARTEN

Our global footprint extends to every corner of the globe and so does cybercrime. Let us help your organization, wherever you are, to mitigate the cyber risks you’re facing.

DATA & ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SERVICES

In order to make the most effective and efficient business decisions, organizations must have the ability to access, analyze and act on their treasure trove of data. Companies that do this are outperforming the rest, with data-driven organizations achieving an average of 30% growth annually.

BDO Digital’s data science professionals understand the relationship of data analysis to real-world business decisions. The right approach depends on a deep understanding of each organization’s operations, unique set of challenges, and goals.

Wherever you are in your Data & AI journey, the BDO Digital team will work with you to:

▪ Enable more informed decision-making;

▪ Create faster response times;

▪ Fuel better customer intelligence and innovation;

▪ Uncover new efficiencies, insights and areas of untapped growth;

BUSINESS SERVICES & OUTSOURCING

BDO Business Services & Outsourcing provides companies with a range of accounting, payroll and compliance services to support their growth and changing requirements within local markets and around the globe.

We provide services which clients may find expensive to recruit or difficult to source, and also can combine these to provide a fully outsourced finance function, providing you with peace of mind and the support of a national and global network.

Whatever the size and ambition of your operations, BDO can manage your accounting and compliance burdens to leave you free to focus on your business goals.

The BDO global solution offers you:

▪ Consolidation – delivering operational efficiencies

through one provider, delivered under one Master Services Agreement.

▪ Local Delivery with Central Coordination - local incountry experts in-conjunction with our central global service coordination team, delivered through a single point of contact.

▪ Improved reporting and planning – delivering regular and consistent reporting models.

▪ Flexibility – a tailored service delivered globally.

▪ Visibility – provides real time information on the status of projects, 24/7 via a single client portal to monitor delivery and manage risk.

ACCOUNTING WORKFLOW OPTIMIZATION

For the Dutch Caribbean region, we have developed an integrated online solution named Accounting Workflow Optimization (AWO) which streamlines the data processing required for your financial administration assisting you with the following:

▪ Better decisions, with better business intel;

▪ Up-to-date financial administration;

▪ Significant savings due to increased automation;

▪ Real-time insights into the business;

▪ More control over tax compliance;

▪ A trusted accountant-advisor at your side; To enable your digital transformation process, we concluded

agreements with all major banks operating in the Dutch Caribbean allowing automated import of your daily bank transactions. In parallel we have developed a digital solution capable to automatically process transactions based on the digital documents (e.g. purchase/sales invoices) provided by our clients.

In addition to the above, we developed BDO Analytics which offers you real-time insight into your financial administration, providing maximum control over your financial operations.

What BDO Analytics offers you:

▪ You know where you stand, e.g. in relation to goals;

▪ Really different: the figures are more up-to-date;

▪ Insight into your company’s financial performance anytime, anywhere;

▪ From basic collection, organizing, storage, booking to focusing on outcomes and control (‘control’);

BDO ST. MAARTEN

▪ User-friendly and intuitive system;

▪ Quick & cost-effective insight into cause-effect

▪ Being able to make rapid adjustments based on KPIs

▪ From steering on past results to looking ahead;

▪ We accommodate your existing technology;

▪ Continuity & quality of your financial processes and reporting, with involvement of trusted BDO financial (and tax) advisor.

For several years now, our office in St. Maarten experienced a steady growth under the leadership of Paul Lungu. Paul is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK) and, amongst other certifications, he has an MSc in Professional Accountancy from the University of London, UK and an MSc in Business Administration from Bucharest University of Economic Studies. Paul describes himself as an innovative professional with a business-like mentality. Other team members and clients recognized him as a balanced leader, adaptive with well-developed social intelligence skills. Over the past 15 years’ experience in the profession, Paul has shown a proven experience in aligning business strategies and objectives and continuously developed himself from a merely technical auditor into a people focused leader, change agent and board room advisor.

A CLEAR VALUE PROPOSITION

BDO remains committed to our multi-disciplinary model. It ensures that our clients receive the best possible solutions, supported by BDO professionals who continue to upskill and deepen their understanding of our business and the markets that we operate in. Preserving a sufficient size and scale of our organization will equally ensure that we can continue to invest, allowing us to lead on quality and mitigate potential risks.

BDO GLOBAL FINANCIAL RESULTS 2023

BDO announced a total combined fee income of USD 14 billion for the year ended 30 September 2023, representing a year-on-year growth of 10.2%. BDO’s global organization extends across 166 countries with 115,661 people working out of 1,776 offices – and they’re

all working towards one goal, to provide our clients with exceptional service.

Our firms across the organisation cooperate closely and comply with consistent operating principles and quality standards. That means local resources who understand your business, your local and international markets and the specifics of your industry: all backed by a highly recognized global organization.

BDO Dutch Caribbean is a group of companies consisting of a number of allied private companies. BDO has offices on the islands of Curaçao, Bonaire and St. Maarten. BDO is an international network of public accounting, tax and advisory firms which perform professional services under the name of BDO. Each BDO Member Firm is a member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, either as a voting or non-voting member.

ST. MAARTEN

St. Maarten B.V. Sparrow Road 4, Philipsburg, ST. MAARTEN

Tel: +1 721 543 0614

Fax: +1 721 543 0615 www.bdo.sx

BDO

INCENTIVES

THE

GOVERNMENT

OF ST. MAARTEN HAS CREATED A WIDE RANGE OF

INCENTIVES TO ATTRACT INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS.

incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives

TAX HOLIDAY

St. Maarten boasts an ideal climate for foreign investment and investment services, offering tax incentives for firms wishing to invest or establish companies to process their investments abroad. There are three areas of development that are specified for which a Tax Holiday can be considered.

• Hotels and other Rest & Recreational Accommodations

• Land Development

• Industrial

THE SPECIFIC CONDITIONS THAT APPLY TO EACH AREA ARE:

HOTELS AND OTHER REST & RECREATIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS

• The application for the tax exemption must be for the exploitation of a hotel or other rest & recreational accommodation;

• The company mentioned above must be geared towards the enhancement of foreign visitors;

• The construction and primary furnishing should encompass an investment of at least $561.798;

• The company is expected to contribute to the broadening of the economic base of St. Maarten;

• There must be a minimum of 25 rooms with a surface space of at least 30 square meters each;

• There must be a creation of permanent employment of at least 5 persons.

The above mentioned conditions are cumulative; the tax exemption will only be honored if all the conditions have been met.

LAND DEVELOPMENT

• There must be a minimum investment of $1.100.000 excluding the value of the land;

• The land must be fallow;

• The minimum size of the parcel of land must be 2.5 hectares;

• A road and other infrastructural facilities such as plumbing, water and electricity must be installed;

• Real estate must be developed;

• The company must stimulate economic activity in St. Maarten;

• The company must stimulate employment in St. Maarten;

• The company’s goal must be land development.

These requirements are also cumulative.

INDUSTRIAL

• There must be a minimum investment of $83.303.330;

• The company is expected to contribute to the broadening of the economic base of the island;

• There must be a creation of permanent employment of at least 5 persons, excluding board members.

These requirements are also cumulative.

incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives

© Jacqueline van Kerkhof / Shutterstock.com

incentives

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

INCENTIVES

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• The request for tax exemption should be submitted on a form, which has been approved by the Governor. This form can be acquired from the Directorate of Taxes on the island.

• The form must be filled out completely, a stamp attached, and forwarded to the Governor. Only one application per form is allowed. Incomplete forms will be rejected.

• The application must contain:

- Data on the amount of employment the project will generate specified by local and foreign.

- Information on financing methods; whether funds will be acquired locally or internationally.

• A detailed business plan including description and feasibility study of the project.

• Other relevant material such as maps, drawings, or any other aid deemed relevant for illustration or clarification may be annexed.

• The interested party will be given the opportunity to conduct an oral presentation of the project to the St. Maarten Tax Holiday Committee.

The Committee will then forward its advice to the Council of Ministers who in turn advises the Directorate of Taxes. The Directorate of Taxes will then make the final decision and the candidate will be notified.

FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental body established in 1989. Its mandate is to set standards and to promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and other related threats to the integrity of the financial system.

The FATF has set out recommendations in order to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These recommendations have been adopted by over 180 countries and are universally recognized as the international standard for anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. The Dutch Kingdom is takes part in the FATF. Sint Maarten in his turn, as part of the Dutch Kingdom, participates as well in the FATF.

According to FATF Recommendation 29, countries who participate in the FATF should establish a Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). There are three types of FIUs:

Administrative FIU: autonomous operating entity that receives, analyses and disseminates unusual or suspicious transactions.

Hybrid FIU: entity that receives, analyses and disseminates suspicious transactions, but the law enforcement has direct access to that registry.

Police FIU: law enforcement agency that manages the suspicious transactions registry.

The government of Sint Maarten has established an administrative FIU in October 2010.

The Sint Maarten FIU receives and analyses unusual transaction reports and other information relevant to money laundering, terrorist financing and associated predicate offenses and supervises designated non-financial businesses

and professions. The FIU also disseminates the results of aforementioned analysis. The Dutch abbreviation is the MOT (Meldpunt Ongebruikelijke Transactie).

VISION

A Sint Maarten community with financial and business sectors that are free of financial crime.

MISSION

To protect the integrity of Sint Maarten’s financial system and contribute to the justice system through ever improving expertise in countering money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

INVESTIGATION

The Sint Maarten government opted in its law for the reporting of unusual transactions. The FIU has an automated registry where mentioned unusual transactions reports are held.

The FIU’s functions as an administrative buffer between the reporting entities on the one hand and the law enforcement

FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT

on the other hand. The FIU is established because of the necessity of having an entity that, with its analysis, gives added value to the (financial) transactions of the service providers in order to determine whether there is a suspicion of money laundering of terrorism financing. When that suspicion is confirmed, the suspicious transactions are forwarded to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

SUPERVISION

According to FATF Recommendation 28, the Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) should be subject to supervision to ensure compliance with the anti-money laundering and terrorist financing requirements. The FIU Sint Maarten is the supervisory body for this group of institutions.

The supervision of these institutions is based on national law which in turn is based on the FATF Recommendations. The two relevant ordinances are the National Ordinance Reporting Unusual Transactions (O.P. 2013, CT no. 479) and the National Ordinance Identification when Rendering Services (O.P. 2013, CT no. 480). One of the supervisory

powers the FIU has is to instigate an investigation on-site to determine whether the DNFBP is compliant or noncompliant. In case of non-compliance, enforcement measures can be imposed on the DNFBP.

You can contact the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Sint Maarten / Meldpunt Ongebruikelijke Transacties (MOT) Sint

Maarten at:

Tel.:

+1(721) 5423025

+1(721) 543 0826

+1(721) 543 0827

Fax: +1(721) 5430828

Email: analyst.department@fiu.gov.sx

Courier mail can be sent to:

P.O. box 5095, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

FINANCIAL SERVICES

THE CENTRAL BANK OF CURAÇAO AND

SINT MAARTEN

The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (previously the Bank of the Netherlands Antilles) is the central bank of the former Netherlands Antilles. It is responsible for issuing the Netherlands Antillean guilder.

The Bank’s most important objectives are to maintain the external stability of the NAf. and to promote the efficient functioning of the financial system in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten. To realize these objectives, the Bank, as supervisory authority, has frequently recurred to credit control measures and/or to changing the discount rate. The functions of the Bank, explicitly summed up in the Bank Charter, are:

First, the Bank is the only institution entitled by law to issue paper money in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten. The Bank also is charged with the circulation of coins.

Second, the Bank supervises banking and credit institutions to guarantee depositors and other creditors funds at banking and credit institutions in particular and the soundness of the financial sector in general.

Third, the Bank manages the foreign exchange reserves of the Netherlands Antilles, which includes regulating of the transfer of payments between residents and nonresidents of the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten.

Finally, the Bank acts as the government’s treasurer by receiving and making payments from and to the public through the tax collector’s accounts at the Central Bank.

To strengthen the Central Bank’s independent position visà-vis the government, the Bank Charter limits the monetary financing of budget deficits to 10% of the central government’s revenues in the previous year. This limitation must be seen in the context of an overdraft facility to meet liquidity deficits of the public sector that result from seasonal variations in government revenues.

MONETARY AND BANKING SUPERVISION

Two of the Bank’s basic tasks are to control the amount of liquid assets in circulation (monetary supervision), and to act as the supervisory body for credit and banking institutions operating in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten (prudential supervision). Furthermore, the Bank is one of the government’s main advisors on financial and economic affairs. The monetary policy of the “Centrale Bank van Curacao en Sint Maarten” during the last two decades has been geared toward promoting a stable value of the NAf with respect to the US dollar. Since 1971 the official NAf/$ rate of 1.79 has been firmly supported by the monetary authorities. The Bank’s main reason for pegging the NAf to the US dollar is that over the years, more than 60% of its international trade relations have been conducted with the United States or in US dollars. To maintain the dollar standard, the Bank must ensure a sufficient supply of foreign exchange. To manage the foreign exchange reserves of the Netherlands Antilles, the Bank in the past has exerted control over the credit extended by commercial banks.

The prudential supervision of banking and credit institutions is aimed at controlling the soundness of the financial system in the Countries Curacao and St. Maarten and at safeguarding the deposits of creditors at commercial banks. This supervision is pursued mainly through the Bank’s analysis of the solvency and liquidity development of banking and credit institutions.

Central Bank of Curaçao and St. Maarten P.O. Box 193, WJA Nisbeth Road, Pondfill, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-3520 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-4307

FINANCIAL SERVICES

BANKS

RBC ROYAL BANK

CA Cannegieter Street 24, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-5908

Fax: 1 (721) 542-5964

Windward Side, Saba

Tel: (599) 416-2454

Fax: (599) 416-2452

FIRST CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK LTD

Backstreet 38, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-3511 / 2491 / 2567

Fax: 1 (721) 542-4531

Card Services:

Tel: (Collect 0210) 001-246-431-5490

Fax 001-246-228-3996

Windwarde Side, Saba:

Tel: (599) 416-2216

Fax: (599) 416-2475

Oranjestad, St. Eustatius:

Tel: (599) 318-2392

Fax: (599) 318-2734

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS BANK LTD

Main Office, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-2313

Fax: 1 (721) 542-4761

Bush Road Branch, Bush Road, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-7950

Fax: 1 (721) 542-7953

Orange Grove Branch, Cole Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 544-5490

Fax: 1 (721) 544-5491

Airport Road Branch, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 545-3063

Fax: 1 (721) 545-2130

Loan Center, Bush Road, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-9537 / 9536

Fax: 1 (721) 542-9258

Insurance Services, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-0000 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-5613

Bankcard Services:

Codville Webster Road 2, Office space 2, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-3940 / 3422

Fax: 1 (721) 542-3251

Investments Services Office, Airport Road, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 545-3608

Fax: 1 (721) 545-3589

Telebanking: 100 | 1 (721) 543-7969 (international)

Emal: info@wib-bank.net

Website: www.wib-bank.net

REPUBLIC BANK PHILIPSBURG

Back Street #62, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 542-2262 / 3317

Transit Number: 71605

REPUBLIC BANK SIMPSON BAY

Simpson Bay, St. Maarten

Email: republicbank.an@rfhl.com

BANQUE EUROPÉENNE DU CRÉDIT MUTUEL SINT MAARTEN - BECM BANK

Tamarind Plaza, Union Road #133, Cole Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 546-0609

ORCO BANK

Union Road #139 f, Union Plaza, Cole Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 544-4744

Fax: 1 (721) 544-4745

Email: info@orcobank.com

BANCO DI CARIBE

Airport Boulevard 15, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 545-5002

Fax: 1 (721) 545-5036

Email: info@bancodicaribe.com

Web: www.bancodicaribe.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES

THE CENTRALE BANK VAN CURAÇAO EN SINT MAARTEN: A PILLAR OF FINANCIAL STABILITY AND INNOVATION

By Chanaz Kokkelmans

The Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) is more than just a financial institution; it’s a key player in the economic life of these vibrant islands! From ensuring our currency remains stable to guiding financial institutions and adapting to global trends, the CBCS has a hand in many aspects of everyday life. Recently, we had the chance to chat with CBCS president Mr. Richard Doornbosch, who is steering the CBCS with a focus on innovation and collaboration. Mr. Doornbosch shared some intriguing insights about what makes the CBCS tick and its vision for the future.

Mr. Doornbosch brings a wealth of experience in financial regulation and economic policy to the table. He believes in being flexible and adaptive in today’s fast-changing world. Under his leadership, the CBCS isn’t just about keeping things steady; it’s also about embracing new ideas and technologies. “We want to communicate openly with the public to make sure our activities align with what residents need,” he shared.

UNDERSTANDING THE CENTRAL BANK’S CORE FUNCTIONS

Many of us might not realize it, but the CBCS plays a vital role in our daily lives. For instance, it manages the money supply to ensure financial stability, maintaining a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar. This helps prevent wild fluctuations that could affect our economy. “By keeping this rate steady, we support local businesses and consumers,” Mr. Doornbosch explained.

But that’s just part of the picture! The CBCS also supervises financial institutions active in the financial sector of Curaçao and Sint Maarten, such as banks, insurance companies, and pension funds to make sure they’re in good shape. “We’re here to ensure a sound and honest financial system,” he emphasized. This oversight is crucial for keeping public confidence high.

The CBCS acts as the “banker’s bank” too, facilitating smooth transactions between commercial banks. Whenever money is transferred, the CBCS ensures everything settles seamlessly. “We’re behind the scenes making it all work,” the CBCS president remarked.

Richard Doornbosch

FINANCIAL SERVICES

WHY DO SINT MAARTEN AND CURAÇAO SHARE A CENTRAL BANK?

You might wonder why Curaçao and Sint Maarten share a central bank instead of having separate ones. According to Mr. Doornbosch, there are solid reasons for this setup.

From an economic standpoint, both islands are closely linked to the United States, making a single currency sensible. “Our economies react similarly to changes in the U.S. economy,” he explained. This alignment makes a shared monetary policy a practical choice.

Pooling resources is also a smart move. Mr. Doornbosch pointed out that having one central institution helps tackle specialized fields like cyber security and financial supervision more efficiently. “It’s tough enough to find the right expertise,” he said. Dividing these tasks would likely lead to inefficiencies.

Plus, many financial institutions operate across both islands. A shared central bank means a unified approach to supervision, giving a comprehensive view of the financial landscape.

EMBRACING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

The CBCS isn’t just about stability; it’s also keen on exploring new opportunities. One significant focus area is climate change.The CBCS is actively researching how climate change impacts Sint Maarten, analysing various future scenarios. “We want to make sure we’re prepared to respond to environmental and economic changes,” Mr. Doornbosch said. He added that sustainability also is a growing priority for the bank. “We’re working on reducing our carbon footprint

as part of our corporate social responsibility,” he noted, emphasizing values like integrity and collaboration with local governments.

ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR SINT MAARTEN

Looking ahead, the CBCS sees exciting economic opportunities for Sint Maarten, particularly in tourism. “We’re focused on ensuring more value-added stays right here in Sint Maarten,” Mr. Doornbosch shared. With its stunning scenery, the island continues to draw visitors, creating economic potential.

Sustainable energy is another area ripe for growth. With plenty of sunshine and wind, Sint Maarten could explore renewable energy solutions that meet local needs and even become exportable commodities. “Investing in renewable energy can position us as a leader in sustainable tourism and energy,” Mr. Doornbosch remarked.

Digitalization also offers exciting prospects. “Your market isn’t just the local population anymore; it’s the entire world,” the official pointed out. By investing in digital infrastructure, Sint Maarten can tap into global markets, creating new economic opportunities for residents.

However, challenges remain. To fully harness these opportunities, Sint Maarten needs significant public investment in infrastructure: think airport upgrades, harbor improvements, and enhanced power supply. “Public investments are crucial for long-term success,” the CBCS president stressed.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

CBCS’ VISION FOR FINANCIAL INNOVATION

The CBCS is committed to embracing financial technology while remaining mindful of potential risks. They’ve already introduced instant payments, allowing bank transfers to happen in as little as eight seconds! Additionally, the CBCS has seen a rise in fintech startups across both islands, offering innovative financial products that could reshape the industry.

“While we’re excited about the potential of fintech, we must remain cautious,” Mr. Doornbosch advised. “It’s vital to embrace technology but also to ensure robust regulatory oversight as new financial technologies emerge.”

The Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten is much more than a regulatory body; it’s a cornerstone of financial health for these closely linked island economies. From managing the money supply and overseeing financial institutions to navigating climate change and digitalization challenges, the CBCS is actively shaping the future of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. Guided by principles of integrity, cooperation, and sustainability—and under the capable leadership of President Richard Doornbosch—the CBCS is poised to help the islands seize new opportunities while safeguarding against potential risks.

UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN

“YOUR KEY TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE”

The University of St. Martin (USM) is one of the main higher education providers on St. Maarten offering a variety of Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s and non-degree programs. USM, with its motto “Your Key to a Brighter Future,” enrolls over 300 full-time and part-time students in the degree programs and over 150 in the non-degree programs.

The University offers enrichment courses such as the GED (General Education Development), the Pre-USM (a preparatory program which prepares students for academic programs, with a number of skills courses and completed with GED exams), ESL (English as a Second Language) and Dutch Naturalization.

The University continues to offer accredited programs such as an Associate of Arts Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management via the UK (BTEC) accreditation and an Associate of Arts Degree in General Liberal Arts, in a culturally diverse environment. USM prides itself in having over 800 alumni, many of whom continue to excel as accountants, managers, teachers, business owners, government administrators and other professionals.

The business arm of USM, “The School of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning” (SCELL), provides a winning mix of workshops and courses, geared toward improving professionals in the business community at large. Among collaborations with institutions of higher learning on a global level, The University of St. Martin is collaborating on a regional level with the University of the Virgin Islands under the moniker (UVI@USM) whereby, persons can earn NCATE accredited Bachelor and Master degrees in Business and Education.

USM’s campus is centrally located in Philipsburg and is within walking distance from businesses and government offices, banks, stores, supermarkets and restaurants. USM’s architecture is simple, blending into the niche on the entrance to Pond

UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN

• The benefit of being able to choose from a variety of accredited degree programs;

• The benefit of quality academic and adult education;

• The benefit of being at home, in the Caribbean with family and friends while pursuing an education;

• The benefit of affordable tuition and small classes where personalized attention is the norm;

• The benefit of having a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs in which to participate;

• The benefit of transferring to several schools in the region, U.S., Europe or Canada if desired by student.

Island, Soualiga Boulevard; offering an inviting and friendly atmosphere. Its intimate and picturesque garden also offers a soothing tranquility, conducive to studying and learning.

Founded in 1989 on the principle that education could improve the quality of life for people on St. Martin and the region, USM continues to be steadfast in its commitment to the community and aims to work towards developing an educated nation whereby, every household will have a member with an Associate’s degree or higher. For over 25 years, USM, with its knowledgeable and qualified pool of instructors, has been offering students the opportunity to discover their potential and assist them in achieving their academic and professional goals.

Rooted in the tradition of the University, is its relationship

with business, civic and community organizations. The University and corporate partners, gain strength from these partnerships and derive mutual benefits from the networks these relationships provide. The future of the University of St. Martin continues to be shaped by its value, while catering to the needs and expectations of the students and the community. By providing students with focused instruction and personal attention, USM offers the virtues of a small college, with curricular richness and disposition of a large university.

University of St. Martin 1 Soualiga Road, P.O. Box 836, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Tel: 1-721-542-5171 / 542-3156 / 542-3674

Fax:1-721-542-5226

Web: www.usm.sx

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Her majesty, Princess Juliana International Airport is once again making the necessary preparations to make its return to regional leadership…and the whole world is watching. There are ongoing plans to ensure that a “state of the art” airport is unveiled in 2022, as the start of the reconstruction of the terminal building project is scheduled to be in full swing during the third quarter of 2020.

Currently, the airport’s “Package 1 – Temporary Operations” have returned into the terminal building since December 15, 2018. The accomplishment was realized over a year after hurricane Irma, Maria and Jose devastated the roof and the terminal building on September 6, 2017. The natural disaster forced the airport community to utilize several makeshift facilities from October 10, 2017 through late 2018.

Today, only 35% of the terminal building is being used to accommodate commercial travelers, however the temporary operations are fully air-conditioned and consists of 10 boarding gates, 32 common use check-in counters, a variety of concession stands and both in and out bound immigration check points. Following the natural disaster, the Managing Board now has the daunting task to reverse the gears of the award-winning airport and return to a reconstruction phased plan approach. Furthermore, the Project Management team with the assistance from the Royal Schiphol Group stands accountable for the project entitled “Package 2 – Reconstruction of the Terminal Building.”

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The ultra-modern international airport on the island of St. Maarten, handled an average of 1.8 million people annually with approximately 170 aircraft movements a day before the hurricane, making it one of the busiest in the region, served by 22 scheduled airlines and a dozen charters with direct service to some 33 destinations/cities. The airport is responsible for 60% of the GDP of the island, which is significant for the economic growth. The airport is owned by a government holding company (PJIAH) and operated by PJIAE N.V, each with its own Supervisory Board of Directors. With a staff complement of approximately 269 employees, the airport community, however, consists of about 1,000 persons working for some 80 businesses that includes airlines and aviation service providers, VIP’s, bus services, cargo operators, Police team, car rental agents, immigration, customs, wheelchair services and airline security, in addition

to retail and food and beverage concessions. The island’s central and strategic geographic location in the region, has resulted in its airport becoming a primary hub, connecting St. Maarten/St. Martin and the surrounding islands, particularly Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barth, Tortola, St. Kitts and Nevis to the rest of the world. Its latest campaign post hurricane is “Rebuild. Recover. Reinvent – Forward Together”

After 75 years of evolution, the SXM Airport transformed from a humble World War II air base for the US military, into an ultra-modern, world-class facility which went through “generational changes” such as the construction of new terminals which also cements its role as the major engine moving the island’s tourism economy forward and the economies of some of the neighboring islands it serves as a hub.

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Safety and security are the two main pillars of operations at SXM Airport. It has an impeccable safety record and is constantly upgrading its staff and equipment to ensure that those who use its facilities feel safe and secure. Equipped with a state-of-the-art ATC Tower and Radar facility, Category 9 Fire and Rescue Service, and General Security and Centralized Pre-screening, safety is top priority. The safety record of the airport is among the best anywhere in the region and beyond.

Designed to handle about 2.5 million passengers annually, management are preparing for the increased passenger capacity as they’ve constructed the “Package 1A” project, which is a temporary expansion of the make-shift area, offering an additional 250+ seating expanse. The area is fully air-conditioned and has an additional 3 boarding gates.

The airport has an airside Departure Hall with a complete duty-free retail and food & beverage concession layout.

Returning concessions like Subway, AMA Duty Free, Dutch Delight, Domino’s Pizza, Market by Villa, Taloula’s Flights, Relay, ESCA, Shipwreck Shop, Gouda Liquor Store, Le Bistro by Bacchus, ILTT Duty Free, Aunt Clara’s Ice Cream and Johney Burgers are all available to the travelers and partially to the public. The new F&B concept includes food trucks on the land side of the property. The airport also features the immigration and emigration booths, offices, the reinstatement of the existing air-conditioning and sprinkler systems, the installation of the fire alarm and public-address systems, CCTV surveillance and IT systems.

The Baggage Claim area has one carousel with Baggage Information Display System (BIDS) monitors. Car rental and VIP services are also offered near the arrival area.

SXM Airport offers airside passenger transportation by bus, Aircraft Fueling, Ramp Handling Service (push-back), and General Aviation services for the private and corporate jet

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

sector. In order to accommodate the tremendous growth in this aviation segment, the airport has a Fixed Base Operations (FBO) building complete with office space, private lounges and dedicated customs and security screening.

SXM Airport is a leading private jet destination in the region, handling over 6,500 private jets annually.The airport was once again successfully short-listed in the 2019 PrivateFly Scenic Airport poll. The future goals include the reconstruction of the Fixed Base Operations (FBO) building and the anticipated Pre-Clearance project, which will enable SXM Airport to increase its market share in this sector.

A separate cargo facility exists near the terminal building, it was designed to handle more than 10,000 tons of cargo per year. SXM Airport is a strategic institution owned by

the Government of St. Maarten, dedicated to upholding the principles of good corporate governance as stipulated in the Corporate Governance code and the internal Code of Conduct policy. Its philosophy also embraces the notion of good corporate citizenship, not only as a part of the Corporate Social Responsibility but also more importantly in being actively involved in the social, educational, cultural and sporting development of the island. It makes its community identifying the airport as its own, as well as an integral part of the socioeconomic development of the island.

© PJIA © PJIA © PJIA

PORT ST. MAARTEN

The development and management of the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities is overseen by the Port St. Maarten Group (PSG), a government-owned consortium of 13 companies responsible for part of the maritime operations of the country.

The operations of the consortium can be neatly summarized as what it calls the ‘four pillars’ of Cruise, Cargo, Yachting and Real estate. The Group operates and has responsibility for the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility at Point Blanche, the Harbour Pointe Village, the Captain Hodge Pier in Philipsburg, the fuel station at Great Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority, which is responsible for the Simpson Bay Bridge.

The Group has diversified its activities into real estate ownership and port consultancy as well as owning and operating the port’s two mobile harbor cranes.

PSG employs 85+ people in 11 departments: Accounting, Human Resources, Executive, Clearance, Maintenance, Information Technology, Safety & Security, Maritime, Terminal & Cargo, Commercial and Operations.

ST. MAARTEN FIRST TO HANDLE NEW GENESIS-TYPE VESSELS

It was one of the first ports in the Caribbean to be able to handle the new Genesis-type cruise ships, the largest in the world. It is also attracting a growing number of shipping lines looking for a transhipment sub-hub they can rely on.

St. Maarten’s duty-free status has always been a marketing advantage for visitors and shippers alike. In addition, the Port St. Maarten Group wants to take things to the next level. Never content to rest on its laurels, it is always seeking new opportunities to deliver a wider range of quality services to its partners.

PORT ST. MAARTEN

In order to achieve this, Port St. Maarten keeps in close contact with cruise lines, shipping lines and other industry players to keep informed about what they need and when they will need it. By staying ahead of the game, Port St. Maarten is always in a good position to accommodate new vessels and new customers.

Port St. Maarten has maintained St. Maarten’s competitive edge in the north-east Caribbean through constant research and strategic planning as well as through partnerships and collaborations with leading industry players. These associations have led to dynamic growth in all sectors.

Over the past decades the Group has invested more than US$100 million into infrastructure and equipment and the focus for the future is on investing in personnel and processes to continue to improve efficiency. Over the same timeframe Port St. Maarten has been transformed into a much more commercially orientated operation.

A milestone was reached in 2014 when over two million cruise passengers were received. This success is not so much

an accident of location – although that helps – but more the result of a systematic approach and good customer focus by Port St. Maarten, which is keen to provide the best facilities in the industry. This is one of the benefits of holding longterm agreements with the major lines.

In 2007, with one berth already in operation capable of accommodating four cruise ships simultaneously, Port St. Maarten took the facility to the next level and built a second cruise pier. St. Maarten is now one of the few ports in the Caribbean capable of receiving the world’s largest cruise ships. These are the Genesis-class vessels of over 220,000 gross tons each with a capacity of more than 6,000 passengers and crew.

Pier 1 is 545 metres in length and can accommodate up to four vessels simultaneously. Pier 2, with a length of 445 meters, was opened in 2009 and can accommodate two Genesis-class vessels. It also has two booths for screening passengers as this cannot be carried out on board owing to the large number of passengers.

PORT ST. MAARTEN

The port accommodates six cruise ships, with the terminal handling anything from 6,000 to more than 20,000 passengers in a single day. Immediately on coming ashore, passengers are welcomed into the Harbour Point Village to the sound of steel pans being played. Built in an architectural style reminiscent of old Philipsburg, the Village contains duty free outlets, souvenir shops and market stalls as well as bars and a restaurant.

Harbour Point Village is also the pick-up and drop-off point for most of the tours and excursions. Visitors will find tour bus stands and a taxi rank here. There is also a regular water taxi service to Philipsburg. Friendly harbour staff is on hand to assist visitors and there is an information centre in the main building to provide advice to visitors.

HISTORIC MOMENT IN CRUISE RESUMPTION

On Saturday, June 5, 2021, officially marked the resumption of cruise tourism after 15-months of no commercial cruise traffic to the destination. This was a momentous occasion for Port St. Maarten and the destination overall, as never in the history of the island has there been a period of a year and half without cruise tourism.

Thursday June 3rd, 2021, marked the 57th anniversary of the existence of port facilities (A.C. Wathey Pier) on the island, more than half a century. Since then, the destination has sailed into the opportunity of cruise tourism which has brought numerous benefits to the island as visioned by pioneer Dr. A.C.Wathey. The island has seen progressive growth and has become the destination of choice #1 Port in the Caribbean.

Port St. Maarten management on Wednesday, July 7, 2021, met with Celebrity Edge Captain Kate McCue at the gangway upon arrival of the cruise ship to destination St. Maarten, the first transit call to the country since the onset of the pandemic and presented a token of appreciation on behalf of the port and the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. Captain Kate was ecstatic when it was mentioned that coincidentally

Celebrity Edge was the last commercial ship that visited the destination back in March 2020.

WALTER PLANTZ SQUARE

The Walter Plantz Square (WPS) at Down Street offers cruise passengers the opportunity to visit and sample the products and services available in several ginger-bread houses that reflects the national heritage of destination St. Maarten.

WPS is complete with the essential amenities: bar/restaurant, arts and crafts, and a beautiful water fountain adorned by palm trees; splash pool for kids; toilet/bathroom facilities; disabled accessible and much more.

Come and experience the Walter Plantz Square at Down Street next to the beach promenade with easy access to Front Street – duty-free shopping mecca of the Caribbean.

PORT ST. MAARTEN

HOMEPORTING – NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN PORT OF CHOICE

Based on various homeporting case studies, Port St. Maarten has been ranked as one of the top cruise port destinations in the Caribbean where quality of facilities is concerned.

Destination St. Maarten came in top ranking for shopping experience, and port/destination services that are offered to the cruise industry. Port St. Maarten has developed a longterm working relationship with cruise brands and at the same time is the north-eastern Caribbean homeport of choice.

Homeporting generates more airlifts in and out of the destination; brings additional business for local service providers; and creates the potential for pre- and post- cruise extension visits.

Port St. Maarten has placed emphasis on luxury cruise brands that translate into more spending power of passengers based on their higher disposable income levels. This also shifts the destination from quantity to quality cruise tourism therefore increasing the destination value due to attracting other highend brand lines.

Home porting is nothing new for the destination as the country has had the opportunity to handle smaller vessels of under 500 passengers up to mid-sized vessels of 1000+. The homeporting of Celebrity Cruise Lines Celebrity Millennium in June 2021 was the largest homeporting vessel to participate in operations at the country’s main seaport.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN

CARGO AND HANDLING SECTOR AT PORT ST. MAARTEN

Effective and efficient cargo handling comes as standard at Port St. Maarten’s Captain David Cargo Quay located at the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility. The terminal has expanded symbiotically with its customers’ needs over the years and is now a regional sub-hub for container transhipment, serving a wide range of carriers as well as the all-important domestic market.

The cargo sector is a vital part of the nation’s economy, not only in terms of generating revenue, but also because most of the food and consumer goods needed by islanders are imported by sea. For this reason, it is vitally important for the whole operation to be streamlined and well managed.

FACILITIES

The Captain David Cargo Quay is 500 meters long with a depth alongside of 10.5 meters, having been extended from 270 meters under the 2007-9 expansion program.The facility is served by two Gottwald HMK mobile harbour cranes, with a lifting capacity of 100 – 120 tonnes. These perform a range

of duties in the port, not least of which is container handling. Each year the port handles thousands of teu’s and acts as a feeder port for many of the smaller islands nearby.

At the southern end of the port a breakwater protects the container yard from the worst of the storms and hurricanes that occasionally hit the island. There are two ro-ro berths, at the southern and northern ends, as well as an Inter-Island Pier serving the local region.

As well as handling inter-island vessels, St. Maarten serves as a transhipment hub for the islands of Anguilla, Montserrat, St. Barths, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda and the Eastern Caribbean.

TRANSSHIPMENT

The main focus of Port St. Maarten continues to be on trans-shipment. St. Maarten offers numerous advantages over its competitors. In addition to its central geographic location, there has been considerable investment in new infrastructure, equipment, the Global Logistics System (GLS) software platform, the Port Community System (PCS) and streamlining of crane operations. All these improvements have helped to make St. Maarten a competitive as well as an

PORT ST. MAARTEN

efficient choice for shippers. The port operates on a 24/7 basis and there is easy deep-water access to the berths.

In addition, increased economic activities on the island and on neighbouring islands means increased volumes of project cargo will be shipped through St. Maarten.

SERVICES

Port St. Maarten became a landlord port in 2001. The aim was to give the port greater commercial flexibility as well to create and maintain a competitive edge. As a result, cargo handling operations are now carried out by the port’s two stevedores. A wide range of equipment is available at the quay including reach stackers, top lifters, yard mules, chassis, trucks as well as fork-lifts and other equipment. Island-wide transportation services are readily accessible using a large fleet of chassis and trucks. In addition, there are many related services such as container repair, and third-party logistics services.

Cargo services have grown in parallel with the volumes handled as the port aims to meet all its customers’ needs. One of the first liner services chose to call at St. Maarten due to the port’s flexibility and the willingness to expand together. This partnership is typical of the symbiotic relationship that exists between the port and many of the lines that call. For some lines, St. Maarten is the first port of call from Europe and this situation means that it fulfills a vital role as a feeder port for inbound cargo that is destined for other local islands.

The introduction of the GLS software allowed the whole port to be fully automated. Containers are tracked and monitored using mobile tracking devices, and all documentation and invoicing is carried out in real-time. Containers and trucks are scanned when entering and leaving the port to create a full picture of port operations at all times. Other services including water provision, bunkering, and waste oil can all be booked through the online GLS portal.

PRODUCTIVITY

One of the key elements of the port’s success is the close cooperation between the stevedores and the port management as they work towards a common goal, investing as demand dictates. The result is a high level of customer satisfaction among the lines using the port’s services.

Following the latest changes to operations and infrastructure improvements, St. Maarten now offers some of the best productivity ratings in the region. Its GLS software has improved the speed of clearance from days to just minutes, while crane operations are achieving high rates of moves per hour. All things considered, the future for St. Maarten’s cargo sector – and its transshipment business – is bright indeed. The port is seen as a facilitator of growth for the island and there is widespread optimism that this growth will continue.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN

PORT ST. MAARTEN CATERS TO GIGA YACHTS

St. Maarten has developed into one of the Caribbean’s premier yachting destinations, hosting some of the most exclusive and luxurious vessels in the world as well as having a thriving long-term and stopover cruising sector.

The main facilities for yachts are in Simpson Bay Lagoon, in the west of the island. The national frontier passes through the lagoon, which has both Dutch and French sides. The Dutch side includes most of the major marinas and a wide range of service companies and suppliers.

Yachting is regarded as a major growth area and the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) has plans to further market and expand this sector. The SLAC is a subsidiary of the Port St. Maarten Group of Companies with responsibility for the lagoon and the John Sainsborough Lejuez Bridge, which spans the only channel in Dutch St. Maarten between the lagoon and the sea.

There is a packed sailing program all year round organized by the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, the principal event being the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, which brings together yachts of all sizes from across the region for a week of competitive racing.

Yachts up to a maximum beam of 56 ft (17 meters) and a maximum draft of 17.0 ft (5.0 meters) can enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon through the John Sainsborough Lejuez Bridge.

GIGA YACHTS

Giga yachts and vessels too large to enter the lagoon can be catered for elsewhere, including at designated Windjammer berths beside at the cruise facility in Great Bay, or can berth alongside the cruise pier depending on the cruise ship schedule.

Fueling services are also available to giga yachts in Great Bay. Port St. Maarten has worked in partnership with the fuel supplier Sol to install a fuelling station at the Windjammer berth. The subsidiary St. Maarten Harbour Fuelling Company NV operates this facility and handles all the refuelling operations.

FUEL STATION

The fuel station, opened in 2011, was set up specifically to handle giga yachts unable to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon owing to depth restrictions. The facility has tanks for storage of fuel for delivery at the berths. Larger volumes can be delivered by road tanker.

PORT ST. MAARTEN DETAILS

AUTHORITY

Port St. Maarten Group of Companies, Dr. A.C. Wathey

Cruise & Cargo Facilities

J. Yrausquin Boulevard, PO Box 5185 Harbour Village Suite #13A, Point Blanche, St. Maarten

Tel: + 1 721 542 8503, 542 8504 Fax: + 1 721 542 8506 Email: buzz@portstmaarten.sx www.portstmaarten.com www.facebook.com/portstmaarten

APPROACH

Deep-water approach to all terminals. Only hazard on approach is the Proselyte Reef.

FACILITIES

Captain David Cargo Quay: 500 meters (1,642 ft) long with 10.5 meters (34.5 ft) draught alongside. In the future, the draft will be increased to 11.5 meters (39.5 ft) to accommodate the FLV vessels.

Inter-Island Cargo Facility:

Berthing space for inter-island vessels of 100 meters (328 ft) length.

Ro-Ro (North) Berth 1: 12 meters length, with 10.5 meters (34.5 ft) depth.

Ro-Ro (South) Berth 2: 12 meters length, with 10.5 meters (34.5 ft) depth.

Cruise Pier 1: 545 meters (1,790 ft) long, 691 meters (2,270 ft) including dolphin, 12.0 meters (39.5 ft) depth alongside.

Cruise Pier 2: 445 meters (1,460 ft) long, 12.0 meters (39.5 ft) depth alongside.

PORT ST. MAARTEN

WINDJAMMER BERTHS:

Windjammer West: 65 meters (213 ft) long, 6.5 meters (21.5 ft) depth. Windjammer North: 100 meters (328 ft) long, 6.5 meters (21.5 ft) depth. There is a fuelling station for mega yachts near the windjammer berths. Water taxi berth: 5 berths

AIRPORT

Princess Juliana International Airport is about 20 minutes from the seaport area with connections to Europe and the USA as well as regional services.

ANCHORAGE

Good anchorage can be found in 12.19 meters (40 ft) of water in Great Bay.

BUNKERS

Available from port authority.

CRANES

St. Maarten Harbour Crane Company owns and operates two 100 tonne Gottwald harbour cranes.

HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Two Gottwald 100 tonne capacity harbour cranes owned and operated by St. Maarten Harbour Crane Company St. Maarten Ports Authority works in partnership with two main stevedoring companies, which operate a range of handling equipment at the port.

LARGEST VESSEL

The cruise piers can accommodate vessels of up to 220,000 gt. The cargo quay can accommodate vessels of up to 10,000 to 12,000 gt.

PILOTAGE

Pilotage is compulsory through the St. Maarten Port Authority. Vessels should await pilot at a maximum distance of

half a mile from Point Blanche-Fort Amsterdam.

RADIO INFORMATION

VHF Channel 12.

RO-RO FACILITIES

Ro-ro berths are available at the north and south ends of the main cargo quay.

STORAGE

There is a container yard with a capacity of 3,000 teu and 30 reefer plugs.

STEVEDORING

Stevedoring is available in the port.This service has been outsourced to two private companies.

TIDES

Negligible tide in St. Maarten: maximum of 1 ft.

TOWAGE

Towage is available in the port. This service has been outsourced to a private company.

TRANSPORT

Overland transport is provided by both stevedoring companies using a large fleet of trucks and chassis.

WASTE

Waste oil and black water removal and glass recycling services are available.

WATER

Fresh water is available.

WORKING HOURS

The port operates on a 24/7 basis.

TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN

TELEM GROUP: TRANSFORMING SINT MAARTEN’S TELECOMMUNICATIONS LANDSCAPE

Amid the vibrant Caribbean setting, the TelEm Group of Companies shines as a beacon of innovation and progress. For years, TelEm has been at the forefront of telecommunications in Sint Maarten, and today it is poised to redefine connectivity and digital experiences. With a streamlined operation and an ambitious vision, the company is dedicated to delivering cutting-edge services that propel both its customers and the community into the future.

A COMPREHENSIVE SUITE OF SERVICES

As Sint Maarten’s only Quad Play provider, TelEm Group offers an extensive range of services: 4G LTE mobile voice and data, dependable landline services, advanced broadband solutions, and an engaging IPTV platform. The company’s commitment to enhancing its offerings is evident in its continuous network upgrades and strategic plans for the future, including the integration of 5G technology.

A significant milestone in TelEm’s journey is the repair and reactivation of its undersea cable, SMPR-1. This enhancement bolsters broadband services for businesses and creates a crucial gateway linking neighboring islands to the USA and beyond. With this advanced infrastructure, TelEm is set to revolutionize services, introducing innovations like smart home applications, cloud-based solutions, and enhanced IPTV experiences.

TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN

EMPOWERING A DIGITAL FUTURE

TelEm Group’s transformation extends beyond technology. In 2024, the company underwent a major restructuring to streamline operations and focus on delivering exceptional value. This transformation included:

Installing a brand-new ISP core to optimize internet performance.

Launching an advanced billing system in 2025 for seamless customer interactions.

Re-aligning networks and cell sites to improve coverage and reliability.

These initiatives underscore TelEm’s holistic approach to catering to a diverse customer base, supporting local businesses, and meeting the needs of millions of tourists who visit Sint Maarten annually.

INNOVATION AND RESILIENCE

TelEm’s journey reflects resilience and a forward-thinking mindset.The company’s rollout of Fiber to the Home (FTTH) marked a pivotal shift from traditional networks to a modern, high-speed infrastructure. This transition not only addressed the growing demand for reliable internet but also enhanced

Sint Maarten’s preparedness for challenges like hurricanes and global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response to these challenges, TelEm took proactive measures, including undergrounding its infrastructure for quicker recovery during storms and accelerating its FTTH deployment to meet surging internet demands during the pandemic.

A CATALYST FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP

TelEm Group takes pride in its role as a catalyst for local innovation. By providing robust connectivity, the company empowers entrepreneurs to leverage modern digital tools and reach global markets. With the enhanced SMPR-1 cable and a focus on integrated digital services, TelEm opens new pathways for business growth and community development.

LOOKING AHEAD

The philosophy “if we build it, they will come” drives TelEm’s efforts to deliver innovative solutions. The company’s leadership envisions a future where residents and businesses benefit from cutting-edge telecommunications services, making Sint Maarten a hub of digital excellence.

ABOUT TELEM GROUP

Established in 2007 and headquartered in Philipsburg, St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company N.V. (TelEm Group) represents the island’s future in telecommunications. Guided by the Supervisory Board of Directors and supported by government leadership, TelEm continues to redefine connectivity with a steadfast commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Discover the future of telecommunications with TelEm Group — where innovation meets opportunity.

PHILIPSBURG

SHOPPING MECCA OF THE NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN SINT MAARTEN IS A DUTY FREE SHOPPER’S PARADISE

Duty Free Shopping

According to a study on Duty Free Shopping in the Caribbean, the global duty free trade has developed rapidly over the past 50 years, from a very modest beginning in 1947 to a multi-billion dollar industry today.

Fifty-two years ago the duty free industry saw the light of day for the first time when a small whiskey and tobacco store opened at Shannon Airport, Ireland. At that time, just after World War II, it was logical that Shannon’s advantageous and strategic position on the west coast of Ireland should be the final refueling stop, before the final 2500 mile trip to New York.

From this point onwards, airport authorities in Europe and elsewhere started realizing the potential of non-aviation income that could be generated by duty free shops.

The Americas now represents more than one quarter of global duty free sales of which the Caribbean alone stands for an impressive and important close to half the share. Very few regions in the world can compete with the Caribbean in terms of relative duty free performance with regard to the geographic size of the region.

The Caribbean provides some of the best shopping experiences in the world, but Sint Maarten is different. One of the joys of vacationing in Sint Maarten is that it is duty free! Great values can be had because prices are among the lowest in the Caribbean. Certainly much less than prices you would pay in the U.S., Europe and Canada.

With no duties on jewelry, leather goods, cameras, gold, perfumes, cosmetics, watches, china, crystal, linen and much more from around the world, Sint Maarten is a duty free shopper’s paradise. The best places to shop on the Dutch in

© Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

PHILIPSBURG

[WELCOME TO THE CAPITAL OF DUTY FREE SHOPPING]

side are Philipsburg’s Front Street and Old Street, Simpson Bay, Maho Reef, and Cupecoy.

New additions to duty free shopping have been added such as the “Puerta Del Sol Plaza,” a new extension to the Simpson Bay Yacht Club Shopping open mall area and “Porto Cupecoy.” Wherever you go, you’ll find the best products the island’s expanding duty-free sector has to offer.

Travelers in the know are taking a close look at the goods being produced by local artisans. Caribbean crafts people bring to their work a rich and colorful blend of African and European influences that make up their culture.

Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten is built on a sand ridge. From the sleepy village to the bustling town with over a mile of duty free stores mainly jewelry, electronics, local Caribbean arts and crafts, watches, alcohol and tobacco, fine cigars, camera’s, perfumes, art galleries, and much more.

The town has a lot to offer the visitor. Shopping is one of the best reasons to take a break from the beach and water sports to explore what Philipsburg has to offer.

There are approximately 500 duty free shops on the island. Duty-free stores are mainly located on Front Street. The Front Street location offers various stores, great access to the cruise ship passengers that arrive via three cruise ship

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tender jetty’s, namely the Capt. Hodge Jetty centrally located in Philipsburg, Bobby’s Marina Jetty, and Walter Williams Tender Jetty in front of Sea Palace hotel.

Competition between merchant’s guarantees that the customer gets what they bargained for with great prices on emeralds, set diamonds, rubies, sapphires, cultured pearls, gold, silver and much more.

Philipsburg stores also offer a wide selection of fine jewelry and watches from such well-known designers as C2K, Caribbean Hook, Honora, House of Tanzanite, John Atencio, John Hardy, Kabana, Roberto Coin, Starnight, White Diamonds, Alfex, Concord, Faconnable, Gucci, Maurice Lacroix, Michele, Movado, Wenger, La Nouvelle Bague and more.

Sint Maarten has some of the most famous duty free shopping in the region. Many of the stores have branches at the airport, cruise terminal, Maho Shopping Center, and Cupecoy.

Whether arriving by plane, cruise ship or mega-yacht, the visitor will find an endless selection of gift items to carry back home as reminders of their vacation on the “Friendly Island.”

GETTING TO PHILIPSBURG

It is easy to get to the capital town of Sint Maarten. Whether you are driving your own rental car, taking a taxi cab, or using private public transportation, getting there is not a problem. There is one main road with some secondary roads, the latter giving you quicker access into Philipsburg.

NIGHT LIFE

There are a number of casinos throughout the town. For those who are into gambling, Philipsburg has much to offer. Due to the town’s proximity to the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities, thousands of cruise ship passengers and crew visit the casinos on an annual basis to try their luck and many become winners.

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Town, which Philipsburg is also referred to, offers lively beach bars, night time activities on the beach promenade where you can meet visitors and locals and hang out in a friendly environment.

DINING / RESTAURANTS

Philipsburg would not be the capital of Sint Maarten if you couldn’t find great food.Town offers a variety of international cuisine and you won’t be disappointed.

SHOPPING HOURS

Stores on Front Street open at 9:00 am until 6:00 pm from Monday to Saturday. Occasionally some stores would open on Sunday when there are several cruise ships in port.

TRANSPORTATION

TAXIS

Finding a taxi in Philipsburg is not a problem. Taxis are available to take you wherever and whenever you need to go.

BUS SERVICE

You also have the option to travel via bus. In this case you will need to go to Back Street and search out a bus that is going in your direction. If you are traveling from Caravanserai/ Maho Reef/Mullet Bay/Cupecoy, then you will have to check the directional sign which is usually at the front section of a bus telling you in which direction the bus is heading in order for you to reach your destination.

Busses travel from Philipsburg to the main tourist areas namely, Cole Bay, Simpson Bay, Caravansarai, Maho and Cupecoy, where one finds the majority of hotels.You can also get out at the Simpson Bay Yacht Club Shopping Center, and cross the street walking in the direction of Pelican, where you will find a number of hotels, timeshare properties and vacation villa rentals.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Philipsburg is the base for all major services such as notaries, law offices, banking institutions, government departments

PHILIPSBURG

and much more. All the aforementioned are in walking distance from each other. Whether you’re an investor or a visitor, Philipsburg has something to offer everyone.

PARKING

The most convenient parking lot is located in front of the Government Administration Building at the Clem Labega Square which is located across from the Windward Islands Bank. Additional parking lots have been built across from the Post Office, the Police Station and the temporary Ring Road parking area.

PHILIPSBURG REJUVENATED

The Government embarked on a number of projects to rejuvenate the capital town of Philipsburg. Plans for beautifying Front Street date as far back as 1999. The first part of the

PHILIPSBURG

rejuvenation of Philipsburg entailed beach replenishment, where tons of sand were pumped from the seabed onto the Great Bay Beach.

Very few islands can boast of a beach in town, like the size of the one in Philipsburg. Since the beach replenishment, more restaurants and beach bars have opened, and there are a lot more activities for visitors to enjoy on the beach and the promenade.

From the beach replenishment followed the construction of a seaside beach promenade, then by the beautification of Front Street, Back Street and sections of two secondary streets in the town. The entire process of development and rejuvenating the city capital is all related to improving the overall visitor experience.

BEACH PROMENADE

The beach promenade starts at Passangrahan Guesthouse near Bobby’s Marina and stretches as far as Sea Palace Hotel. The promenade has become a hive of activity. It allows one to leisurely stroll along the waterfront enjoying the ambiance of Philipsburg. One also has easy access to restaurants and main street – Front Street, where you can find all your duty free shopping experience.

BEAUTIFICATION OF FRONT STREET

The first phase of the beautification of Front Street started from Passangrahan Hotel and went as far as Sea Palace Hotel. However, the beautification program continued down to the former Paper Garden Book Store. The Government recognizes that further upgrading and improvement of

PHILIPSBURG

the tourism product is necessary if Sint Maarten wants to continue to remain one of the main tourism destinations in the Caribbean.

The upgrading of Front Street fits into the Government’s development vision policy document, “A Development Perspective for Philipsburg and the Greater Great Bay Area,” which outlines a particular framework on how the capital town should be developed.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO PHILIPSBURG – THE TOURIST CORRIDOR

In keeping with the vision of continuing to upgrade the island’s tourism infrastructure, another project that Government embarked upon was the busy thoroughfare which connects Philipsburg to the French side of the island.

Part of the Tourist Corridor beautification project has been executed. It features a running/walking track for visitors and residents. It also features specially constructed stone walls, an avenue of indigenous trees, a fishing deck, customized street lighting and much more.

The beautified area of the Tourist Corridor stretches from the Buncamper Road, Point Blanche to the Keys in Suckergarden.

HARBOUR POINT VILLAGE – AN ADDITION TO SHOPPING IN THE CAPITAL

In addition to Philipsburg is Harbour Point Village, which opened in May 2003 at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities in Point Blanche. This five acre development was designed in the traditional Caribbean flavour of architecture.

Harbour Point Village is a mini-Philipsburg – a small shopping arcade consisting of 12 shops and 12+ market stalls. Harbour Point is meant for cruise visitors who stay onboard the vessel; the individual can take a stroll into the little village which is not far from the cruise pier; or those who go on an island tour and return to the cruise port without having the experience of shopping in Philipsburg, can still do that last minute shopping at the Harbour Point Village.

There are already several traditional, high quality shopping centers on the island. The Harbour Point Village is a reminiscence of the days gone by, but not forgotten.

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POND ISLAND

Pond Island is a new development. It is surrounded by the historical salt ponds and is linked to Philipsburg. It is also part of the Development Vision of the Government.

There are existing buildings such as the University of St. Martin, Telecommunications Earth Station, Turning Point Rehabilitation Center, the Sint Maarten Receiver’s Office, Little League Ball Park, Festival Village and the Government Office Complex.

All government offices will be housed in this building. It will be more investor and customer friendly as all government departments will be centrally located at one location.

CENTER OF TOWN CAPT. HODGE WHARF

The Capt. Hodge’s Wharf was renovated. The pier in Philipsburg at the Cyrus Wathey Square is an important transportation link between cruise ships docking at the Dr. A. C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility and the island’s main shopping center, Front Street.

It accommodates water taxis and tender vessels to off load and take on passengers simultaneously. It houses a Tourist Information Office, and a Police Sub-Station.

PHILIPSBURG

PHILIPSBURG

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SIMPSON BAY

UTHE NEW STRIP OF ENTERTAINMENT

ntil 1933, Simpson Bay Village was completely isolated. A lot has happened and developed since then. Today the Village is well and alive bustling with activity. The new strip of entertainment offers all the essential services that a visitor to the “Friendly Island,” would require in order to enjoy themselves.

Simpson Bay is also home to the mega-yacht sector of the island’s tourism oriented economy. The Simpson Bay Lagoon is one of the biggest natural assets, a natural area for marinas and other marine sector services. The Simpson Bay Lagoon caters to the Palapa Center and Marina, Simpson Bay Yacht Club, Isle de Sol Yacht Club, and the Princess Yacht Club at Port de Plaisance.

Simpson Bay Village has a lot more to offer the visitor. It has restaurants, art galleries, international fast food establishments, hotels, liquor & tobacco stores, real estate agents, casinos, doctor’s offices, brand-name stores, and much more. The beaches are just a stone’s throw away.

SIMPSON BAY

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

The strip also offers the services of a number of financial institutions on the island. The island’s main banks which have their head offices in Philipsburg, have branches and ATM machines throughout the Dutch side of the island. Some of them have branches in Simpson Bay, namely Windward Islands Bank, RBC Bank., Republic Bank and First Caribbean International Bank. They provide a whole range of services for visitors.

WATERSPORTS

Diving/snorkeling, kayaking, banana boats, sport fishing, sunset trips, day trips, bike riding are just some of the things that are available in the village. There is so much to do including boat trips to the neighboring islands. You will always find something to do.

DINING/RESTAURANTS

The Simpson Bay strip caters to approximately 50 restaurants, snacks and eateries. The island is recognized as the gourmet capital of the Caribbean boasting over 350 restaurants. The strip offers some of the finest dining on the island. Dining on the strip is exquisite. You will find a variety of gastronomic possibilities such as Italian, Continental, French, Creole, Brazilian and much more.

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SIMPSON BAY

AIRPORT

The Princess Juliana International Airport is right next to the Simpson Bay Village. The airport is ideally located just a few minutes away from the main hotels and timeshare properties located in the areas of Beacon Hill-Caravansarai, Maho Reef, Cupecoy, Simpson Bay and Pelican.

PUERTA DEL SOL PLAZA AT SIMPSON BAY

In Sint Maarten you always find something new on your next visit. Puerta del Sol Plaza is an addition to the Simpson Bay Yacht Club. The plaza has been described as having shady courtyards with a collection of chic boutiques, hair salons/ day spa, yacht brokers, real estate agents and restaurants. Once again it is in easy walking distance to everything else.

© Emile Cukier

© Jessica Kirsh / Shutterstock.com

SIMPSON BAY

CUPECOY ‘THE RIVIERA’

ASHOPPING ATTRACTION & ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

s Sint Maarten continues to develop, investors are looking for new opportunities and they have over the past few years discovered the Cupecoy area.

The “Riviera,” in Sint Maarten, Porto Cupecoy, is one of the newest developments on the island along with “Blue Mall.”

PORTO CUPECOY‘A MEDITERRANEAN VILLAGE’

Described as living in a seaside village, near the Dutch/ French border, Porto Cupecoy features private condominiums, international boutiques, renowned restaurants, full service fitness center, pool, tennis court, supermarket and a deep

water marina with 54 slips.

Porto Cupecoy’s website describes the property as a Mediterranean village-inspired layout, with a blend of classic sophistication and Caribbean comfort with modern convenience.

This vibrant community is set around a bay-front promenade ringed by luxury boutiques and top-rated restaurants.

Porto Cupecoy is more than a prized vacation spot; it’s a twenty-first century port of call.

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

The smallest island in the world shared by two sovereign powers, St. Maarten/St. Martin enjoys the perfect blend of two European cultures with the beauty of a Caribbean paradise. The island of St.

Maarten also boasts an intriguing historical background. Christopher Columbus discovered it in 1493, on the feast day of St. Martin of Tours, and in the 140 years that followed, it changed flags many times. The Spanish, French, Dutch, and English have all claimed possession. In 1648, a treaty divided the island in two; the Dutch received 16 square miles and the French, due to a superior naval presence at the time, received 21. Today, the cosmopolitan inhabitants of this friendly island are proud of their over 350-year coexistence and, as if to prove a point, have never constructed an official border between the island’s two countries. There are historic forts to see and architectural gems to photograph. Indians, pirates, smugglers, slaves, soldiers, merchants, and mariners have all left their mark here. And rumors of buried treasures still persist. Be that as it may, the island is certainly a treasure trove of history.

WITH 37 BEACHES, WHEN IT COMES TO FUN, THE WETTER THE BETTER.

When it comes to water activities in this picturesque paradise, the recipe for fun is this: simply add water. In fact, the wetter and wilder the water sport, the better. The island offers not only the turquoise Caribbean sea but tranquil lagoons as well. Enthusiasts can snorkel, windsurf, waterski, sail, jet-ski, and parasail. Fishing charters for marlin, king fish, tuna, and wahoo, plus day sails to our neighboring islands, are also readily available. The beautiful island of St. Maarten is encircled by

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

37 magnificent beaches. While some invite you to endless stretches of powder white sands shaded by swaying palms, others lure you to enchanting coves or a scuba diver’s dream sheltered by colorful coral reefs. Nice to know is the fact that our beaches are never crowded, even in season. So those who prefer the sensual privacy of a secluded beach in paradise can become lost in fantasy and intrigue. For those who wish not to get their feet wet, there’s horseback riding, tennis, and golf. Most hotels have tennis courts or access to them, and arrangements can be made for you to play golf on Mullet Bay’s 18-hole championship course. Whatever your whims, the island of St. Maarten offers more activities than imaginable to have total fun in the Caribbean sun.

NONSTOP ACTION THAT’S WORLD-CLASS

If exciting night life and gaming tickles your fancy, the Dutch side of the island can deal you a winning hand every time. Seasoned high rollers and spirited amateur shooters can try their luck at roulette, craps, baccarat, blackjack, and slots at any of our glamorous casinos.

In addition to popular local hot spots, the island’s many and varied hotels also offer entertainment of their own; you will not have to look far to enjoy an evening of limbo fire dancers, folkloric, and the calypso beat of a Caribbean revue. On lively St. Maarten, disco lives! Wherever the excitement draws you, it is a sure bet that you’ll find enough Las Vegasstyle entertainment and casino action to keep you rolling all night long. In the wee hours of a starry night, there’s always romance, a stroll in the surf, a balmy breeze and the scent of wild orchids.

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

IN THE GOURMET CAPITAL OF THE CARIBBEAN, YOU’LL FIND FINE EUROPEAN DINING.

Food, delicious food! While our guests may argue the merits of golf versus tennis and scuba versus snorkel, they all agree on one thing: the dining on St. Maarten is exquisite. The cuisine can be described in many ways. French, Italian Continental, Creole from beluga to zucchini mousse. St. Maarten sets a table that’s unique in the Caribbean. Where else in the world will you find a 37-square-mile island boasting over 350 tantalizing restaurants. Here you can enjoy a Cuban or Mexican appetizer, a Brazilian or Indonesian entrée, and a Vietnamese dessert. Frankly, the gastronomic possibilities are endless.

But of course, there’s more to dining than simply the food. There’s the ambiance, the view, and the atmosphere of many different cultures. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit dinner in a sophisticated restaurant in Philipsburg or a bistro meal in a sidewalk café on one of Marigot’s colorful avenues, dining in St. Maarten is like dining no place else. ~ Bon appétit!

SOFT ADVENTURES

Your trip to St. Maarten offers many opportunities such as: Hiking along lush, scenic trails, Kayaking along our gorgeous beaches. Also one can enjoy our numerous cycling routes along both roads and mountainous trails.

HORSEBACK RIDING

The island has several stables at which persons rent horses. Arrangements for guided horseback tours can also be made at the stables.

BEACHES

Vacation on St. Maarten and the sand will always be between your toes. We have so many wonderful beaches. On the Dutch side, Cupecoy beach is picture-perfect. Mullet Bay and Maho Bay offer shimmering sands and family facilities. Simpson Bay and Great Bay offer suntans and water sports. Anywhere you travel, a beach is not far away.

WATER SPORTS

The island offers excellent diving and snorkeling locations. And with so many multicolored tropical fish, you’d think

© St. Maarten Tourism Bureau

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

Picasso had been painting them. Underwater visibility runs from 75–200 feet depending on conditions. Windsurfing, sailing, and jet skiing have enjoyed rapid growth over recent years and instructors are usually available.

CHARTER FISHING

Charters, available for half or full-day hire, usually include tackle, bait, food, and refreshments. Your hotel will tell you where the best fishing is.

SAILING

Internationally renowned for hosting the famed Heineken Regatta and the 12-metre Challenge, St. Maarten fascinates boaters of all sorts with crystal blue waters, brisk trade winds, secluded beaches, and first-rate mariners’ services. St. Maarten also offers various yacht chartering services, from day trips to neighboring islands to sunset cruises boasting the best view of the island.

DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

One of the joys of vacationing in St. Maarten is that it is duty-free!

You can get many bargains because prices are among the lowest in the region. Certainly much less than prices you pay in the U.S. and Canada. The best places to shop on the Dutch side are Philipsburg’s Front Street and Old Street, Simpson Bay, and Maho village. Wherever you go, you’ll find clothing, leather goods, jewelry, gold, watches, perfumes, cosmetics, china, and crystals from around the world.

All famous brand names are well represented. St. Maarten plays hosts to a number of fascinating art galleries and studios featuring the finest local, International and Caribbean works.

CASINOS

No vacation on this island is complete without a visit to one or more of our spectacular casinos. All are located on the Dutch side and are open from noon until 3 am.

CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION

U.S. citizens entering St. Maarten for three months or less must bring a valid passport or proof of U.S. citizenship, return travel tickets, documents for next destination, and sufficient funds.

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

Canadian citizens entering St. Maarten for 14 days or less must bring: a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. Return travel tickets, documents for next destination, and sufficient funds are also required.

United Kingdom citizens or British-protected persons entering St. Maarten for three months or less must bring a valid passport, return tickets, documents for next destination, and sufficient funds.

Citizens of other countries should check with a travel agent or a St. Maarten Tourist Office on the appropriate documents necessary to enter St. Maarten.

AIRLINES

The island is serviced by a number of major carriers and charter flights.

AIRPORT

Princess Juliana International Airport is located on the Dutch side near Simpson Bay. Information Desk: 1(721) 546-7777

For more information call your travel professional or the St. Maarten Tourist Offices.

AUTOMOBILE RENTALS

One of the best and most convenient ways to see the island is to rent a car. For about $35 to $55 per day, most rental car agencies offer unlimited mileage. Pickup and delivery

service is usually available. All you need to rent a car is a valid driver’s license and a major credit card or cash deposit (about $350 to $600). Also available are scooters, bikes, and Harley- Davidson rentals.

DRIVING LICENSE

Both international and foreign licenses are accepted. Traffic on St. Maarten is right hand driving.

BUSES

Public transportation runs regularly between the island’s two capitals for a moderate fee. Other buses travel hourly between Mullet Bay, Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, and Grand Case.

TAXIS

Taxis on St. Maarten are not metered. Rates determined by the government are based on carrying two passengers per trip to their destination. Your driver will appreciate a tip of 10 to 15 percent. Taxi Stations are located on the Dutch Side at the Airport, at the Cyrus Wathey Square, at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility, at Diamond Casino on Front Street, and also on the waterfront on the French Side.

BANKING HOURS

8:30 am–3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. (Hours vary from bank to bank.) ATM machines are available throughout the island.

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

CURRENCY

Dutch side: U.S. Dollars ($) or Antillian Guilders (Naf./Fls./ Ang.). One U.S. dollar equals approximately Naf.1.82 French side: U.S. Dollars ($) or Euros (€).

CLIMATE

Annual averages: Temperature - 80°; rainfall - 40”; water temperature - 78°

DRINKING WATER

Purified tap water. Local and imported bottled water also widely available.

ELECTRICITY

Dutch side: 110 volts (50 cycles). French side: 220 volts (60 cycles).

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

St. Maarten: Dutch

St. Martin: French

English is widely spoken on both sides of the island.

SIZE AND LOCATION

The Dutch side is 16 square miles. The French side is 21 square miles. St. Maarten is located 195 miles from San Juan,

1,690 miles from New York, 1,989 miles from Montreal, 2,008 miles from Toronto, 3,065 miles from São Paulo, 1,225 miles from Miami, 3,612 miles from Buenos Aires, and 4,314 miles from Amsterdam.

SHOPPING HOURS

Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Some shops and supermarkets are open on Sundays.

WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS

Nothing makes for a more memorable wedding day than having your ceremony presided over by the serene surroundings and azure waters of beautiful St. Maarten.

Marriage licenses are easy to obtain and you can even be provided with a wedding coordinator to help facilitate your special day. For those who can’t wait to start their honeymoon, St. Maarten offers a wonderful variety of charming hotels and resorts so you can instantly be whisked off to your once-in-alife-time rendezvous. For complete wedding and honeymoon information, contact the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

For more information, call your travel professional or the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau: Front Street 28 Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: 1-721-549-0200

Email: info@vacationstmaarten.com Web: www.vacationstmaarten.com

ANGUILLA ABOUT ANGUILLA

Tucked away in the northern Caribbean, Anguilla is a shy beauty with a warm smile. A slender length of coral and limestone fringed with green, the island is ringed with 33 beaches, considered by savvy travelers and top travel magazines, to be the most beautiful in the world.

With accommodations ranging from ultra-luxury villas to traditional resorts, Charming Escapes hotels and guest houses, Anguilla offers a premium vacation experience at every price point and when it comes to culinary experiences, Anguilla is second to none.There are over 100 restaurants on the island, everything from exquisite fine dining to beach bars to street food and roadside barbecues.

Anguilla lies just off the beaten path, so it has retained a charming character and appeal. Yet because it can be conveniently reached from three major gateways: Miami, Puerto Rico and St. Maarten, and by private air, it’s a hop and a skip away.

ANGUILLA

EXPLORING ANGUILLA

■ THE VALLEY

Anguilla’s capital, The Valley, is located in the center of the island. It is the home of government and commerce, the Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport, and the Anguilla Tourist Board. Here you will also find the island’s surviving plantation houses, the beautifully restored Wallblake House, built in 1787, a glimpse into Anguilla’s colonial heritage.

■ ISLAND HARBOUR

This quaint fishing village sits on the eastern end of Anguilla. Colorful boats moor in this protected cove, and the fishing pier juts out towards the conch-lined island of Scilly Cay. Island Harbour is home to the annual Festival del Mar on the Easter weekend, a celebration of all things from the sea that includes a seafood festival, culinary competitions, swimming and fishing tournaments, lots of music and the national pastime, Boat Racing.

■ BLOWING POINT

The Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is the main point of entry for most visitors to Anguilla, who arrive via the public or private ferries from St. Martin/Sint Maarten. The area is also home to some of the island’s finest villa estates.

© Anguilla Tourist Board

pics721 © Shutterstock.com

© Christoph Pradel, Anguilla Tourist Board

ANGUILLA

■ WEST END

The West End is the heart of Anguilla’s tourism industry, home of many of the island’s traditional five-star resorts. It is also where Anguilla’s culinary fame was born, led by iconic restaurants such as Blanchard’s, and followed by establishments like Jacala, Straw Hat and more recently Sharky’s Restaurant.

The spectacular beaches of the West End -- Meads Bay, Rendezvous Bay, Maundays Bay, Barnes Bay, Long Bay, Cove Bay – glistening arcs of powder soft sand framing azure seas, these are the hallmarks of the Anguillian vacation experience.

■ SANDY GROUND

A sleepy village by day, party central at night, Sandy Ground is “the entertainment capital of Anguilla”. The colorful beach bars, fun and casual restaurants come alive with music, dancing and lively conversation.

Road Bay at Sandy Ground is the entry port for private yachts and small luxury cruise ships that call on Anguilla.

Customs and Immigration clearance takes place here, and many of the yacht services and local provisioning agents are based at this location.

■ OUR OFF-SHORE CAYS

“Anguilla by Sea” tours take you to one or more of these islands for a day of swimming, snorkeling and fantastic food.

Scrub Island is the largest of the offshore cays, your perfect private island. Activities here include wildlife observationover 34 species of birds that have been recorded – snorkeling with turtles, fish and stingray, and swimming in emerald glowing lagoons.

Sandy Island is a five-minute boat ride from Sandy Ground. An amazing restaurant and spectacular snorkeling make it a truly memorable experience.

Prickly Pear also offers a great selection of cocktails and seafood, bird watching, snorkeling, and stunning vistas of turquoise seas.

ANGUILLA

Sandy Island © ATB

Meads Bay © ATB

ANGUILLA

WHAT TO DO IN ANGUILLA

Anguilla’s pristine beaches and azure seas make it ideal for myriad water sports, ranging from snorkeling, kite-surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding, to scuba diving, deep sea fishing, body surfing and boat racing, the island’s national sport.

On land, there’s a championship golf course; a state of the art tennis academy, with experienced coaches offering lessons at all levels, and home to the annual Anguilla Cup in November; also caving, biking, and ATV rides that take you to every corner of the island.

Anguilla has an exciting calendar of events and festivities.

The Moonsplash music festival, hosted by Anguilla’s legendary Bankie Banx and celebrated at the full moon in March, is renowned for its very special vibes, found nowhere else on earth.

Held in May, Anguilla Culinary Experience is Anguilla’s only destination-wide food and wine festival. ACE brings together

talented chefs from Anguilla and around the world to share kitchens and showcase why Anguilla reigns as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.

Folk festivals such as Welches on Whit Monday, West Fest, and A Village Ting, celebrate Anguilla’s heritage and culture, showcasing our culinary, musical and sporting traditions.

Summer Festival in August is a ten-day spree of carnival activities by night, and traditional Boat Racing by day, pageantry, music and street dancing that started over fifty years ago.

For tourism information on Anguilla please visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board: www.IvisitAnguilla.com; Follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla

Malliouhana © ATB

ANGUILLA

WARM GREETINGS FROM ANGUILLA

Greetings from the beautiful island of Anguilla! On behalf of the Anguilla Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACOCI), it is our pleasure to extend a warm welcome as you explore this edition of the magazine.

OUR MISSION AT ACOCI

At ACOCI, we are dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment that enhances the economic vitality of our island. Our mission is to support, promote, and empower the diverse enterprises that contribute to Anguilla’s unique and dynamic economy. We believe that strong businesses create strong communities, and our efforts are centered on ensuring the growth and success of our members.

WHY CHOOSE ANGUILLA?

Anguilla is a safe and vibrant destination that offers an exceptional environment for working, doing business, and investing. Known for its stunning beaches and welcoming community, Anguilla also boasts a stable political climate,

robust legal framework, and strong economic policies that foster business growth and investment opportunities. The island’s strategic location in the Caribbean, coupled with its modern infrastructure and skilled workforce, makes it an ideal hub for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to capitalize on emerging markets. With its commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, Anguilla stands out as a premier choice for businesses and investors looking to thrive in a supportive and dynamic setting.

ACOCI INITIATIVES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

BACKING WINNERS PROGRAMME

Throughout the year,ACOCI engages in a variety of initiatives aimed at strengthening the local business landscape. From hosting informative workshops and networking events to advocating for policies that benefit our business community, we are committed to providing valuable resources and opportunities. One of our proudest achievements is the launch of the Backing Winners Programme, sponsored by the Caribbean Development Bank. This initiative has provided

critical support and guidance to numerous micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, helping them achieve significant growth and development.

GOVERNMENT AND BUSINESS COLLABORATION

ACOCI is proud of our ongoing efforts to serve as a vital link between the government and the business community. By facilitating constructive dialogue and addressing key issues, we strive to create a favorable business climate that allows our members to thrive.

STARRY NIGHT BUSINESS AWARDS

Celebrating the hard work, dedication, and innovation of our members is a cornerstone of ACOCI. Our first Starry Night Business Awards in 2023 were a resounding success, and we look forward to hosting this prestigious event again in 2025. Join us in Anguilla as a partner or sponsor as we recognize and celebrate the achievements of local businesses.

CHAMBER LINK INITIATIVE

ACOCI also recently introduced Chamber Link in collaboration with the BVI Chamber of Commerce, a program designed to connect businesses across islands, fostering regional cooperation and the exchange of best practices. This initiative underscores our belief in the power of collaboration and the shared benefits of working together across borders.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

By forging strong partnerships with businesses and institutions from other islands, we aim to create a network of shared knowledge, resources, and opportunities that will drive economic growth and prosperity throughout the region.We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with our neighboring islands to share best practices.Whether through joint initiatives, regional events, or collaborative projects, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the positive impact we can achieve together.

ANGUILLA

CONCLUSION

As you read through this magazine, we hope you gain insights into the vibrant business activities and opportunities that Anguilla offers. We are excited about the future and remain committed to driving economic progress and prosperity for our island.

Thank you for taking an interest in our work. We look forward to working together towards a prosperous future for all.

President and Board of Directors

Anguilla Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Contact Us

For more information about ACOCI, contact us at (264) 497-2839 or (264) 235-2839, via email at info@anguillachamber.com, or visit our website at www.anguillachamber.com

Backing Winners Initiative Clients © ACOCI

SABA

Dear Visitor, I wish you a very warm welcome to our beautiful island Saba, the Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean... Our enchanted isle has always fascinated travelers, intrigued scholars, and scientist from around the world.

Saba sits majestically on the horizon like a rare green jewel floating on the shimmering blue tropical Caribbean Sea. Lush tropical foliage, brilliant flowers and fairy tale architecture fill the mountainsides and valleys. The entire island is exceptionally unspoiled and beautifully maintained, reflective of the locals’ deep sense of pride in their home, villages, and history. Its relative remoteness in the open sea also creates a unique ecosystem and a monument to nature’s best.

From an arid cactus-laden landscape which is quickly overtaken by rocky cliffs and tropical vegetation, breathtaking views are everywhere. Hikers can enjoy over 15 trails and Saba’s unique cloud forest Mount Scenery the highest point in the entire Dutch Kingdom sits at 877 meters or 2,877 feet.

The island has accommodations to suit every style and budget - from intimate boutique hotels to luxury villas and charming cottages. Foodies can savor gastronomic options ranging from casual to stylish, while enjoying our fresh seafood and the famous Saba lobster.

Saba’s wealth stretches beyond its island boundaries. Its surrounding waters contain a unique marine ecosystem renowned for the biodiversity of its marine life and are recognized to be among the world’s finest marine parks and diving sites. So whether you’re here to dive, hike, or to relax, rejuvenate and invigorate, we are pleased to have you visit us and hope you can share your experience with family and friends.

Your island adventure and Caribbean dream awaits!

Malinda Hassell Director of Tourism

SABA

Saba sits majestically on the horizon like a rare green jewel floating on the shimmering blue tropical sea. It is a magical place that lures the adventurous traveler with her stunning verdant silhouette soaring 5000 feet from the ocean floor; 3000 feet sits above sea level. Although a mere five square miles, this extinct volcanic island is filled with extraordinary natural wonders perfectly in harmony with its fascinating history and culture. Twice named “Best Caribbean Island” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Saba is that rare place in the modern world that satisfies the intrepid soul as well as those seeking gentle pleasures. The island’s Old-World Caribbean charm, lyrical pace and stunning beauty provide respite for those who desire to disconnect from life’s hectic pace.

GETTING THERE

To explore Saba, you must get here. The most extraordinary approach is by air. Winair pilots take off from St. Maarten for the twelve-minute flight. It is simply poetic floating above the Caribbean Sea heading to Saba’s soaring peak on the horizon. Just as you can almost touch the mountain, the plane cuts a dramatic 180 degree on to Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport’s 400-meter runway, considered the world’s shortest commercial air strip.You can also travel to Saba by ferry from

Sint Maarten. Once past customs, just hop in a local taxi and begin to explore one of the earth’s most graceful places. Please check with the airline and Ferry for current schedules, for entry more information on entry requirements visit www.sabatourism.com

ISLAND HISTORY

As you ascend and descend the “Road”, you are surrounded by Saba’s magnificent natural and man-made wonders. Lush tropical foliage, brilliant flowers and fairy tale architecture fill the mountainsides and valleys. The entire island is exceptionally unspoiled and beautifully maintained, reflective of the locals’ deep sense of pride in their home and history.

Many of the intrepid Sabans are descent from lineages dating to the 1600s when English sailors shipwrecked on the jagged shore. Over the centuries, Saba tossed between Dutch and English ownership, with the Dutch winning out. Once a haven for marauding pirates, the island’s eclectic blend of Dutch, African, English, Scottish and Irish eventually settled into a quite harmony focused on seamanship and fishing. It was a rugged life as the only roads were stone trails leading up from the sea into the remote villages accessed only by foot

“TWICE NAMED “BEST CARIBBEAN ISLAND” BY TRAVEL + LEISURE MAGAZINE, SABA IS THAT RARE PLACE IN THE MODERN WORLD THAT SATISFIES THE INTREPID SOUL AS WELL AS THOSE SEEKING GENTLE PLEASURES.”

and donkey. Until 1943, there was no proper road. Saban Josephus “Lambee” Hassel dismissed the Dutch and Swiss engineers who said a road could never be built. Via an engineering correspondence course and the help of fellow islanders, the “Road”, as it is affectionately known, was built in stages from 1943 to 1958. Although their families have dwelled here for centuries, the English-speaking locals are warm and welcoming to all who wish to embrace nature, architectural beauty, cleanliness and a laid-back flow of life. It is not a closed community, far from it. Whether you are an expat or visitor, conversations begin the moment you hop in a taxi, enter a shop or stop for refreshment. Everyone here is your tour guide. It’s a safe and protected place where you can blend in and enjoy the island’s gentle pace for a day or lifetime.

EXPLORING SABA ABOVE AND BELOW THE SEA

Saba doesn’t have beaches; just one that appears a few months a year. It is part of the reason Saba is so pristine and unspoiled. This place doesn’t need beaches. The unsurpassed beauty both below and above the sea opens the door to endless adventures from exhilarating to romantic.

Below the sea, Saba’s explosive volcanic origins are as obvious; it is one reason the island is among the world’s top dive spots. Within Saba’s protected marine park, spectacular formations and structures, alongside lava flows and hot springs, combined with pristine coral reefs and a brilliant aquatic population creates a diver’s paradise. Saba’s

highly experienced dive companies bring you up close to spectacular watery beauty.

Above the sea, the focus is natural and man-made beauty. To fully enjoy the island, you should stay for a few days at one of the charming boutique hotels, quaint Saban cottages or elegant villas often just a short stroll to civilized amenities such as the island restaurants ranging from casual to stylish. With its abundant sea life, year-round growing season and proximity to St. Maarten/St. Martin, dining on Saba is very fresh and delicious, especially the famous Saba lobster, red snapper or locally grown produce.

To explore the island up close, hike the old stone “roads” that evolved into stunning trails meandering up and down the volcanic peaks and valleys. From easy to challenging, the trails provide the best means to fully connect with Saba’s natural beauty and experience the breathtaking views. Or simply sit on a terrace, cold beverage in hand, and let your eyes wander to the stunning views that emanate from every angle. The ever evolving scene flows endlessly to the horizon from sunrise to sunset.

Perhaps hop in a taxi and let the driver take you on a tour of the island, through the tropical forests, charming villages and picturesque architecture. The frequent subjects of artists and photographers, Saba’s enchanting vernacular combines beautiful red zinc roofs, white clapboard or stone walls, pretty green shutters and Caribbean gingerbread trim with little porches and colorful gardens edged in native stone.

Some of the best examples of Saba vernacular are found in and around the charming village of Windward Side with its historic cottages and buildings. The island’s cottages were most often homes of sea captains; built to survive the elements yet compliment the island’s natural beauty. An excellent example is the H.L. Johnson Museum, housed in a cottage built in 1840. Within this lovely and beautifully restored museum are the carefully curated elements of a traditional Saban family.

Shopping is one of Saba’s most charming adventures. Stores and galleries are scattered around the island, most often in the village of Windward Side. Although you can certainly find a wonderful souvenir t-shirt, it is the artists and creators of Saba that offer the most unique items.

Saba lace is world renowned for its unique artistry. Since the 1870s, Saban sea captain wives and their descendants have sold their intricate handmade (Spanish) lace, a skilled first acquired by Mary Gertrude Hassell Johnson who attended

SABA

a convent school in Caracas, Venezuela. Several island shops sell beautiful lace items for the home and personal use. Another local product found in shops, bars and restaurants is Saba Spice, a rum based beverage loaded with tropical spice, perfect as an after dinner liqueur or poured over ice cream.

Saba is also a willing subject for painters, photographers and designers, inspired by the colors, forms and people of Saba. Art galleries, primarily in Windward Side, feature the work of local creators whose artistic products range from a magnificent water color painting of tropical flowers to beautifully one of a kind jewelry at the Jewel Cottage, housed in a 150 year old cottage, or the hand-blown glass jewelry of JoBean.

Perhaps the best souvenir of Saba is the deep connection visitors often develop with the island, its people and the lyrical flow of daily life. This is a very special place that beckons you to return and settle into an unsurpassed tropical paradise.

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

Iam always delighted to hear when anyone falls in love with our Friendly Island, be they passing visitors who came here for a relaxing break or entrepreneurs who wanted to develop their business. You are more than welcome on this island. It is full of promises, with magical landscapes and countless opportunities. You’re in for some unique experiences that we are proud to be promoting, because, here, on Saint-Martin, we guarantee that your dreams are within reach.

You’ll find completely renovated hotels, the most recent in the whole of the Caribbean, cozy accommodations with that authentic tropical charm, and a wide range of restaurants where you’ll see why we are well known as the gourmet capital. Saint-Martin cultural and artistic richness is the fruit of the diversity and joie de vivre of its inhabitants, making it a great destination supported by a generous calendar of events. Musical, gastronomic or sports festivals, you can celebrate with us, all year long! Countless experiences await you if you are coming to our little slice of heaven, spread over 34 mi2, for the first time. Thirty-seven sandy beaches, with warm and crystal-clear waters, a bountiful natural environment, and a wide range of activities make for an exceptional experience, whether you come here for a relaxing break, or to build a new life.

On the French side of the island in the north, you’ll be amazed by the contrasts all around you: luxury and peaceand-quiet in the protected enclave of Terres Basses, the authentic capital, Marigot, the colors and local flavors in Grand Case, and the easygoing pace of life in Orient Bay with a huge beach and friendly atmosphere in the evenings. Nettlé Bay, Anse Marcel, and Oyster Pond are just some of the enchanting places that you will hopefully soon see with your own eyes. Each place has its own history and identity, each place will show you how unique our island is, our island that we are so fiercely proud of.

The Saint-Martin Tourist Office will be by your side to assist you on your adventure, to support local businesses, and to promote our superb destination all over the world. Our top priority is to nurture our international reputation by showcasing the wonderful way of life on our “Friendly Island,” because I am convinced that a treasure can only really be appreciated if it is shared. And I’ll let you in on a secret: in Saint-Martin, we approach life with a smile, and we are sure to get smiles in return.

Valérie Damaseau President of the

Saint-Martin Tourist Office

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

Saint-Martin is a friendly and authentic small island, surrounded by 37 white sandy beaches, turquoise water, cradled by the beautiful Caribbean sun.

The Friendly Island is known for its picturesque landscapes and its captivating nights but also for its charming inhabitants. This fame is also due to the coexistence of France and the Netherlands on 88 km2, in perfect harmony.

The French side is in the North and is an overseas collectivity of France. The Dutch side is pegged to the group of Netherlands. In recent years both sides’ statuses have evolved allowing them more freedom to collaborate with their counterparts and giving them more control over local issues. The most common languages spoken on the island are French, English, Creole, Spanish and Dutch.

Grand Case, the culinary capital offers typical and local

cuisine but also French gourmet restaurants with varied atmospheres: festive, romantic, local etc. Marigot, which is the Capital of the French side, is ideal for shopping, relaxation and refreshment. Pic Paradis, the highest peak of the island is famous for its natural activities and its wonderful rain forest.

Music has a precious place in Saint-Martin, soca, zouk, reggae, salsa but also soul and jazz that are the sounds that keep the island alive night and day. Despite the success of tourism, the island has preserved its authentic Creole charms: natural islets, colored wooden houses, mountains walks, all in a beautiful protected area. Carnival, Christmas or Easter are part of traditions. Melodies and dances with traditional costumes, parades, glitters and feathers, all together on the sweet rhythm of the Caribbean music. The island invites visitors to experience what we call the “Friendly Island”, for an unforgettable stay.

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

TOPOGRAPHY

One can enjoy the many bays and creeks along the shores of Saint-Martin where several water sports can be enjoyed. Pic Paradis, the highest summit culminates at 424 metres (1392 feet) in the centre of the island.

Simpson Bay lagoon, one of the largest within the Caribbean, is an ideal place for water sports boat trips and special cruises.

CLIMATE

Average temperatures vary between 66 and 82° F in January and between 72 and 89° F in July. The most important rains occur between August and November of each year and the drought is serious during February, March and April.

FLORA

The island is covered with a variety of tropical flowers which make the landscape a delight to look at. The thicker forest occupies the more mountainous areas.

FAUNA

Many pelicans, herons, aigrettes, waders and gulls live around the salt ponds and one can easily see mongooses crossing the streets, lizards, iguanas and turtles along the trails. Humming birds and sugar birds are common in the gardens.

BEACHES

37 beaches of white sand, each one with its own charm and beauty, wild islets and coral reefs.

ART

If many international artists have migrated to Saint-Martin in search of new sensations, the native painters of the Caribbean and of the island undoubtedly hold the island heritage through a combination of the genuine values of the Caribbean islands in their works.

Roland Richardson has a gift for grasping nature as a whole

and deeply seizing environment. This Saint-Martin artist understands that the subject appeals to you and not the other way around; that is why he tries to go far beyond personal expectations and respect nature’s gifts and offerings.

In Saint-Martin, art is linked to collective life and the artist expresses the surrounding energies, namely the beauty of the scenery, the glistening of colors and the variety of lights.

Although the island has experienced a galloping development toward urbanization, the work of the artists continues to restore the very essence of the Caribbean world through an original luxuriant nature. Saint-Martin will live, breathe and rise thanks to their talent.

LODGING

Diversity is the word by which one could describe lodging on Saint-Martin. The island offers a great variety of places that accommodate visitors from the world around throughout the year. The choice of hotels is wide, unique in the Caribbean and covers numerous sites, styles, sizes and moods according to the taste of the clients. On the beach side or up on the hillside to discover the magnificent views, close to the shopping centres or facing the splendour of the Caribbean, sports and leisure lovers will find a wide variety of activities they can practice, whereas lovers of Caribbean mildness will appreciate the charm and the calm of the more intimate places.

Whatever the size or style of the hotel, the owners are professional, strict and concerned about preserving a great quality of equipment and services, they have an innate sense of reception and this Caribbean kindness distinctive of the friendly island.

Our binding character is one of happiness, each one is convinced that our hosts are first of all friends and everyone would like you to fall in love with Saint-Martin and welcome you to Paradise!

Office de Tourisme de Saint-Martin (Head Office) 10, rue du Général de Gaulle, 97150 Saint Martin

Tel: +590 590 87 57 21

Email: contact@st-martin.org Website: www.st-martin.org

© lilysnotanartist, ayoarq, donosxm

ST. EUSTATIUS

FIVE REASONS TO “DATE” STATIA

By Jesse Serwer

St. Eustatius is truly the Caribbean’s hidden treasure. Statia, as it’s commonly known, is officially a part of the Netherlands but this eight-square-mile island due south of St. Maarten has a personality all of its own. A rich history, diverse population, stunning natural beauty and the absence of mass tourism all combine to give it its uniquely low-key vibe. Here’s five reasons why you should make St. Eustatius your next Caribbean destination.

1. DIVING

St. Eustatius is home to some of the Caribbean’s best diving. Unlike many of the region’s other underwater hot spots, however, you’ll never have to worry about crowds. Divers can explore over a dozen shipwrecks in Oranje Bay, many bearing treasures of antique glass, porcelain and other relics of the island’s legacy as a major trading center. The aptly-named Blue Bead Hole is home to a motherlode of striking blue beads, a symbol of the island’s past. Coral reefs ring the island, protected within a marine habitat administered by St. Eustatius National Parks (STENAPA). Elsewhere, lava flows formed through recent volcanic activity create otherworldly underwater tapestries. Members of the three endangered sea turtle species—the leatherback, the green turtle, and the hawksbill— which nest on the island are also commonly sighted near Statia’s reefs and wrecks.

2. ADVENTURE

Statia is home to over a dozen hiking trails. The most essential of these will take you to The Quill, the dormant, 2,000-foot volcano which dominates the island. A hike to the summit can be completed in under an hour, but you will want to leave time to explore the Quill’s inner crater, which is home to a spectacular tropical rainforest.

3. TRANQUILITY

Statia is a place to unplug, relax and unwind. From the moment you land at F. D. Roosevelt Airport, you’ll be struck by an overwhelming sense of tranquility. In fact, the sound of small, single-engine planes taking off and landing is just about the only noise of note you’ll encounter on your stay. What you will hear are crashing waves, braying goats and chirps from the more than 30 bird species that make their home on St. Eustatius.

TASTE

St. Eustatius is a melting pot. Historically, it has been home mostly to residents of Dutch and African descent, but recent years have brought an influx of arrivals from around the world, with their own cuisines and traditions. On the last Thursday of every month, the stalls outside Mike Van Putten Youth Centre play host to Taste of the Islands, an international smorgasbord which highlights the diversity of Statia’s populace. With all meals going for only US$5, the price — and the experience — can’t be beat. It’s a great place to talk up residents and get in step with local issues and concerns. For a more indulging experience, upon your next visit join the Statia Tourism office at the Taste Of The Cultures (TOTC).

4. EXPERIENCE - THE PEOPLE...

Statians as they are refered to are very cultured, very hospitable and very proud people. The past is everywhere on St. Eustatius. Statia has more historical monuments per square mile than any other Caribbean island: 119 in total. Oranjestad, the capital, might seem sleepy today, but it was once the Caribbean’s busiest trading port. To walk along the wave-battered ruins of the 18th-century brick warehouses in Oranjestad’s Lower Town is to travel back in time to the days when the island hummed with commerce, and lived up to its nickname of “The Golden Rock.” Up the hill in Oranjestad’s

ST. EUSTATIUS

downtown (“Upper Town”) you’ll find the remnants of Honen Dalim, the second-oldest Jewish synagogue in the New World. Steps away are the newly-restored Fort Oranje, with its stunning overlook of the Caribbean. It was here that, in November 1776, Governor Johannes de Graaff offered the first international recognition of the newly-chartered United States, in the form of an 11-gun salute to the USS Andrew Doria. The colonies were able to purchase ammunition and supplies on Statia during the American Revolution, owing to the port’s neutral status, seeding a relationship which lasts to this day. Among the ramparts and canons at Fort Oranje hangs a brass plaque which U.S. president Franklin D. Roosevelt presented to St. Eustatius in 1939 in commemoration of its pivotal role in aiding independence.

“SET

YOUR DATE AND COME VISIT US”

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DIVING IN STATIA

The reefs surrounding St. Eustatius are flourishing in a protected marine park. Under water you will experience what much of the Caribbean must have looked like many years ago. Most of the 36 official dive sites are located in the two reserves which cover a large part of the northern and southwestern waters. The eye-catching volcano ‘the Quill’ dominates the island with its impressive crater and is responsible for the huge amount of lava flows and blocks under the surface. These old labyrinths of lava are now fully overgrown with coral and sponges. Sharks and turtles, who are rare on surrounding islands, are still common on Statia. Small-scale fishing and diving tourism share the same waters and both benefit from the protected status. Combine these reefs with numerous of historical dive sites and more recent sunk wrecks and you got yourself a divers paradise!

SOME DIVE SITES FROM OUR RICH COLLECTION:

CHARLES L. BROWN WRECK

The island of St. Eustatius purchased the Charles Brown, formerly an AT&T Transatlantic cable laying vessel, for the amount of $1 (US). On July 25th, 2003, after many parties on the island volunteered to prepare the ship, she reached her final destination on Statia’s sea floor as an artificial reef. The Charles Brown is one of the largest and most impressive wrecks in the Caribbean. The view on your descent is spectacular. Deep sea fans and sponges now cover the deck and cable reels. Horse-Eye Jacks form dense schools above the wreck while huge barracudas (including a massive resident nicknamed Charlie) live right on it. Thousands of divers have witnessed the transformation from a white steel hulk into a living reef. Like a fine bottle of wine, She’s getting better and better with age.

ANCHOR POINT

Named after a huge old coral-covered French anchor who got hooked into the surrounding reef. From all 200 anchors in Statia this one is probably one of the most beautiful. Before you reach the anchor you encounter a swim through and on top of it there is a cleaning station with Spanish hogfish. A few minutes more in the dive you pass an arena like area full of cracks and overhangs, house to drumfish and lobsters alike. The top of this reef looks like a barrel sponge forest, complete with tube sponges and different coral species. Caribbean reef sharks often patrol here, looking for an easy meal. Different species of moray eels are common and quite often you can encounter a the elusive sharptail eel.

DOUBLE WRECK

Not your usual wreck dive, despite its name. The only thing to remind us of the ships that sank here nearly 300 years ago are a dozen or so ballast stones and two huge anchors.The rest of the ballast stones are now fully grown in with sponges and coral.

© Mike Harterink

It is a rather small dive site, giving us plenty of time to search all the cracks and corals for interesting marine life. A huge family of tiny blennies uses one of the old anchors as highrise apartments. The closer we get, the more tiny heads we see popping out to say hello.The entire dive site is guarded by huge southern stingrays that are so tranquil we can approach them and come as close as we dare. There are plenty of cleaning stations where we can witness cleaner shrimp doing what they do best. Quite often we find seahorses and even frogfish in this macro paradise. It is rare not to encounter green turtles here.

CHIEN TONG

Previously, a Taiwanese long-line fishing trawler, but after damage to the bow she couldn’t pass the insurance survey. At (52m/170ft) from bow to stern, the vessel sits upright on the bottom of Orange Bay at a depth of 24m/80ft. Sunk in 2004 as an artificial reef, it is now an ‘Oasis in the desert’ as the wreck attracts plenty of marine life. Horseeyed Jack, Barracuda, and Southern Sting Rays are a common sight. Sometimes, when the current is running, Spotted Eagle Rays like to sail on top of the wreck. The Chien Tong is THE place for night diving. When the sun sets, giant Green and Hawksbill Sea Turtles arrive to find a place for a comfortable night’s rest. Bright red Teardrop Crabs, Sponge Crabs, and Slipper Lobster can be seen crawling about as well. Orange Cup Coral open up to show their true color and transform the wreck into an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ experience. This is a night dive you do not want to miss, and certainly won’t forget.

AQUARIUM

Surrounded by a large area of sand and sea grass this rock attracts marine life like an oasis in the dessert. The sandy area is shared by garden eels and southern stingrays. The whole rock is covered with sponges, coral and holds lots of anemones in the cracks and groves. Here we find spotted morays and scorpion fish. On top of the rock hundreds of sergeant majors feeding on plankton and often we encounter turtles here. We can’t explain why but on this dive site we found more nudibranch than anywhere else in Statia. BLUE

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BEAD HOLE

The origin of blue beads dates back to the 17th century. The Dutch West India Company used these beads (made in Amsterdam) to pay the slaves on Statia their ‘wages’. After emancipation, legends say the freed slaves gathered on the cliffs and threw their beads into the sea to celebrate their freedom. Blue Bead Hole is a dive site just between the old harbor and the colorful reefs on the Southern corner of the island. Here you’ll find a mix of coral heads, sand patches, and sea grass. And if you are lucky, a blue bead or two. Actually, according the legend, the beads find you not the other way around. Even without being found there is a good chance you will encounter quite a few amazing critters here. Pike and Sailfin Blennies, Scorpionfish, and Mantis Shrimp are all waiting to be found.Ê The most sought after fish are the ‘Guardians of the Blue Beads’, Flying Gurnards. It’s no coincidence that the blue of the ‘Guardians’ fins perfectly matches the color of the beads!

ST. EUSTATIUS

HANGOVER REEF

A reef as a reef should be; a colorful labyrinth of ancient lava overgrown with healthy coral and sponges.This is the perfect mix of coral gardens, sandy areas and fascinating overhangs, giving us so much to look at. On the large sandy patch we can observe yellow head jaw fish, peacock flounder and queen conch. Lobsters share their turf with spotted drum fish and

moray eels. We often encounter four species of angelfish on a single dive at this site. Yellow tail damselfish occupy the pillar coral we find here and be sure to look around to spot a little Caribbean reef shark that often swims around checking his territory.

Diving around Statia is so diverse, you get the feeling you dive on another island almost every time you get down. One day you dive a huge wreck and an untouched coral garden, the next you dive steep walls and a historical dive site. This variation, combined with the protected marine park, make diving here a truly unique experience. And the only thing you probably won’t see is other groups of divers!

All photos © Mike Harterink

ST. EUSTATIUS

ST. EUSTATIUS NATIONAL PARKS (STENAPA)

Three National Park areas protect the high biodiversity, and unique ecosystems present on both land and sea, and the total protected area covers 33km2 – almost twice the size of the small island of St. Eustatius (Statia) in the Dutch Caribbean. The National Park system is comprised of The National Marine Park -including 2 Marine Reserves - and the Terrestrial Parks of The Quill/Boven National Park. The foundation also manages the Miriam C. Schmidt Botanical Garden, located on the lower south-eastern slopes of The Quill volcano.The Local Government delegated management authority for the Parks to a local NGO – St Eustatius National Parks Foundation, starting in 1996. The National Parks were later reinstated in 2012 under the Dutch National Government.

THE QUILL/BOVEN NATIONAL PARK

was pronounced as the first official National Park of the Netherland Antilles in 1998, making it a protected area. The Park was created to protect the unique biodiversity found within and to ensure sustainable use by all stakeholders. The Quill National Park is 3.4 km2 and consists of the dormant volcano ‘The Quill’ and ‘White Wall’, a limestone formation located on the south side of the volcano.The park boundaries include the slopes above 250m, the interior of the crater and White Wall down to the sea level. Boven National Park

comprises five hills in the Northern Hills of St. Eustatius: Boven, Gilboa, Signal Hill, Jenkins and Bergje.

THE STATIA NATIONAL MARINE PARK

was the first park established in the park system, in 1996, and it surrounds the island (encompassing the entire coast) and extends from the high-water mark out to a depth of 30 metres (100 feet). The total area of the park is 27.5 km2. Moorings are maintained throughout the park as an alternative to anchoring, except in the anchorage zone. Within the Marine Park, there are two actively managed reserves, where fishing is not permitted to protect pristine coral reefs and their benefits to biodiversity and human wellbeing alike.

MIRIAM C. SCHMIDT BOTANICAL GARDEN

Since this garden was established in 1999, it has been providing a haven for the island’s native flora and fauna, whilst creating an opportunity for visitors and the community to relax in peaceful surroundings. The garden was the vision of the Statian woman, Miriam C. Schmidt. She wanted to create a safe place for Statia’s biodiversity to flourish away from animal grazing, invasive species and pressure from development. She was a founding member of STENAPA. The garden was re-named after here when she passed away in 2001 in honour of her passion for protecting Statia’s natural environment.

St. Eustatius National Parks Foundation

Oranjebaaiweg 59, St. Eustatius, Caribbean Netherlands

Tel: +599 318 2884 Cell: +1721 581 7082

Social Media: @stenapastatia Web: www.statiapark.org

ST. EUSTATIUS

ST. EUSTATIUS

© Cees Timmers

© Cees Timmers

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