SXM Information and Frequent Questions
We like to share questions from our Blog readers. Send us your questions as well and we will do our best to provide you a solid answer.
The French and Dutch Border
SXM is a two-nation island. The northern portion of the island is French with the southern portion being Dutch.
Can you describe the border situation at SXM?
Certainly, SXM's border locations are unique. They're marked merely by a monument and flags, devoid of any buildings or gates. Interestingly, there's no passport control here. You can either drive through non-stop or take a moment to capture a photo against the backdrop of the sign. A fun observation is that the police force vehicles vary on the French and Dutch sides. Even the license plates differ in design. Regardless of your stay location, your rental car could sport either a French or Dutch plate. Personally, I prefer requesting a French plate. Rental cars on the Dutch side begin with an "R", which I feel might make one easily identifiable as a tourist.
What should I keep in mind when traveling by ferry to a neighboring island from SXM?
When embarking on a ferry journey from SXM to a neighboring island, it's essential to carry your passport. Some islands, including Anguilla and St. Barths, mandate passport presentation even for day trips. We learned this the hard way when we were denied boarding the ferry to Anguilla due to a lack of passports. Also, it's crucial to know the schedule of the last ferry to avoid an unintended overnight stay. On the occasions we've visited other islands, we've found it convenient to have a rental car waiting for us upon arrival.
Rental Cars
There are a number of options to rent your car on SXM. Here are some insights as we rent four or five tiems each year.
Do you recomment a particular rental car agency?
Certainly, SXM's border locations are unique. They're marked merely by a monument and flags, devoid of any buildings or gates. Interestingly, there's no passport control here. You can either drive through non-stop or take a moment to capture a photo against the backdrop of the sign. A fun observation is that the police force vehicles vary on the French and Dutch sides. Even the license plates differ in design. Regardless of your stay location, your rental car could sport either a French or Dutch plate. Personally, I prefer requesting a French plate. Rental cars on the Dutch side begin with an "R", which I feel might make one easily identifiable as a tourist.
Do you have a preferred car rental agency on SXM?
Yes, I've had positive experiences with both Hertz and Sixt on SXM. I often choose Hertz due to my status earned from frequent work-related travel. However, Sixt has also provided excellent service, and I occasionally opt for them based on competitive pricing. To find the best deals, I usually input my travel details into Kayak and search for reasonable rates. All rental car agencies are conveniently located east of the SXM airport. Upon exiting the airport, you'll find representatives from various rental companies holding signs and guiding you to their respective shuttle buses. If you can't locate your agency's representative, don't worry - any of the rental car personnel will be more than happy to direct you.
Is a rental car necessary for my stay on SXM?
While it's not absolutely necessary, having a rental car can significantly enhance your vacation experience on SXM. The island is fairly easy to navigate using an online map. While there are public "mini" buses available, they tend to be slower and less convenient than having your own vehicle. That being said, I do recommend employing a driver for dinner outings or similar events to avoid any risks associated with drinking and driving.