It’s easy to see why St. Martin is one of our top destinations, with its stunning beaches and landscapes combined with a blend of island excitement and pure tranquility. Learn more about this incredible destination – what makes it great, what to do (eat!), when to go – from a few lucky members of our team who are especially knowledgeable on St. Martin travel and villas.

The experts:

Cynthia Merrick, Villa Specialist 
Kristin Mesmin, Villa Specialist
Duanna Gallagher, Villa Specialist
John Sheets, Villa Marketing Specialist

What is your personal favorite thing about visiting St. Martin? 

Cynthia: Its close proximity to other islands.
Kristin: The diverse culture and friendliness of the island.
Duanna: The town of Grand Case – I loved walking around the little shops. 
John: Dining. The restaurant selection is fantastic, and there is something for everyone’s budget. 

What makes this destination different from other places in the Caribbean? 

Kristin: You have both the Dutch and French sides of the island together in one destination. 
John: It’s just a short boat ride to other islands, like St. Barts and Anguilla. 

What would you say is the biggest difference between the French (Saint-Martin) and Dutch (Sint Maarten) sides? 

Kristin: The culture and the food. 
Duanna: You get the great restaurants on the French side and the casinos and nightlife on the Dutch side. 

What’s one of your favorite St. Martin villas and why? 

Cynthia: Little Jazz Bird, for the unique Caribbean décor.
Kristin: Giselle – it’s beautifully remodeled and has a great location within walking distance to the beach. 
Duanna: Giselle – I loved the décor, open-ness and comfortable feel. 
John: Petite Plage 4, an incredible beachfront property with a huge pool and lots of outdoor lounge space. And, it’s walking distance from Grand Case. 

What have been some of the most popular St. Martin villas this year? 

Duanna: La Josephine – the price point for a large villa is very good, and the villa accepts bachelor/bachelorette groups. 
John: Mes Amis, Mumbai and Petite Plage 4 have also been very popular this year. 

When is the best time to visit? 

John: Between December and April. 
Cynthia: Late April/early May is just after the high season, but before the hottest time of year. 

What is one thing you recommend visitors do or see while here? 

Kirstin: Visit the many beaches and restaurants. 
Duanna: Explore both sides of the island and enjoy the many watersports and different restaurants. 

What kind of variety can you find in the Villas of Distinction collection of St. Martin villas? 

Duanna: There is something for everyone here – beachfront condos, small one- and two-bedroom villas for couples, and large, expansive villas for multiple families to spread out. 

Do you need a car during a St. Martin villa stay? 

Cynthia: If you want to explore the island, I would recommend one. You drive on the right side of the road, like in the U.S., and no special driver’s license is needed. 

What local food should I try? 

Cynthia: All of it. Delicious. 
Kristin: The seafood – fresh fish. 
John: The French side’s (French) cuisine, and the fresh fish on both sides. 

See all St. Martin villas. Or contact us at 800.289.0900 to speak to a qualified villa expert who will help you explore which luxury villa best suits you.