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Christopher Columbus sighted St. Maarten on November 11, 1493. If he saw today’s interesting medley of hotels and inns, he’d wish he stayed the night.
As late as the 1960’s the island was a spartan paradise with about 200 no-frill rooms. In the decades that followed, developers from around the world saw an opportunity and began to work on the Dutch side. Today, St. Maarten’s million-plus visitors annually can choose from more than 2,000 rooms. There is a property to suit every taste, and most properties on the Dutch side have beachfront locations. Island lodgings range from large resort hotels and luxury condominiums to small, intimate guest houses, timeshares and apartments.
The St. Maarten Hotel and Tourism Association works with suppliers to renovate existing properties, create a meaningful rating system and train islanders for the many jobs that the tourism industry produces. Whether the main mission of one’s visit is relaxation, fitness, romance or even business, St. Maarten has properties that will deliver the goods with a smile.
BEACHFRONT RESORTS
Visitors may select from large resort complexes such as the Maho Beach Resort and Casino and Great Bay Beach Hotel and Casino; or mid-sized resorts such as Divi Little Bay Beach Resort and the Caravanserai Beach Resort. Amenities include beachfront location, pools, on-site casinos, restaurants, convention facilities, watersports, fitness centres, spas and more.In addition, these larger resorts offer all-inclusive packages (which include air travel, airport/hotel transfers, accommodations, all meals and drinks) and/or meal plan options.
GUESTHOUSES & INNS
Formerly the Governor’s home, the Pasanggrahan Royal Guest House on Front Street dates back to 1906. The walk-through lobby to Great Bay Beach is filled with antiques and a portrait of former Dutch Queen Wilhelmina, who frequently visited with the Royal family. Today, guests can stay in the “Queen’s Suite” located at the top of a spiral staircase.
Mary’s Boon Beach Plantation is unique and charming in its authentic plantation-style. Each of its 21 fully equipped suites has its own style, color and name. It is situated along a three-mile stretch of white sand on Simpson Bay Beach. Perfect for relaxation and the slower pace – there is an “Honor Bar” at the seaside-dining gallery and one of the best West Indian kitchens.
For the discerning traveler, luxury is first and foremost at the Princess Heights Condominiums on the hills of Dawn Beach and Oyster Bay Beach Resort. These properties offer elegantly appointed suites with full-service amenities.
The Delfina Hotel, opened in February 2001, caters to gay-lesbian travelers as well as open-minded straights. Built in typical Caribbean gingerbread-style, the rooms are dedicated to show biz icons adored by the gay community. Celebrity-themed rooms feature Brad Pitt, James Dean, Bette Davis, Liz Taylor, Diana Ross, Tina Turner and more.
With an inspiring name, The Horny Toad Guest House on Simpson Bay is probably one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Congenial and unpretentious, each of the eight fully equipped apartments has its own personality.
VILLA RENTALS
Villas are great for visitors looking for a ‘home away from home’. Rooms are tastefully decorated in Caribbean style and surprisingly affordable for families and couples. St. Maarten also has several large timeshare properties. Although most are pre-sold, it is possible to get last-minute deals by calling the properties directly and renting.
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