Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11th edition 2022

The Golden Book of

Sint Maarten AND NEIGHBORING ISLANDS www.sxmgoldenbook.com

11th Edition - 2022

INVESTMENT | TRADE | TOURISM SINT MAARTEN • SAINT MARTIN • SABA • SINT EUSTATIUS • ANGUILLA • ST. BARTHELEMY

The Golden Book of

Sint Maarten AND NEIGHBORING ISLANDS 11th Edition - 2022 www.sxmgoldenbook.com

THE INVESTMENT GUIDE

INVESTMENT • TRADE • TOURISM A COMPREHENSIVE REFERENCE MANUAL FOR BUSINESSMEN, INVESTORS & TOURISTS SINT MAARTEN • SAINT MARTIN • ANGUILLA • SABA • SINT EUSTATIUS • ST. BARTHELEMY The Golden Book of Sint Maarten, 11th edition, is published by:

MEDIA PUBLISHING INTERNATIONAL N.V. P.O. Box 409, Philipsburg, SINT MAARTEN (Dutch Caribbean) Tel: 1 (721) 527-5111

Readers of the Golden Book of Sint Maarten are referred to the Government of Sint Maarten website: www.sintmaartengov.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN Preface from the Honorable Prime Minister of Sint Maarten.........................9 The Council of Ministers....................................................................................... 10 The Parliament of Sint Maarten........................................................................... 12 Country Sint Maarten Government Structure & Ministries......................... 13 Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary............................................................ 14

Map of the Island.....................................8 GENERAL INFORMATION..16 About the Government of Sint Maarten..............................................20 The Governor of Sint Maarten.....22 The Council of Advice....................24 © NAPA / Shutterstock.com

General Audit Chamber.................26 Social Economic Council................28

INVESTMENT GUIDE..........48

The Institution of the Ombudsman. .............................................................30

Business License...............................50

University of St. Martin...................79

BDO St. Maarten..............................56

Princess Juliana International Airport...............................................82

General Information........................32 Contacts.............................................34 Legal Entities.....................................45

Taxation..............................................60 Incentives...........................................64 Department of Statistics (STAT)...66 Bureau for Intellectual Property...68 Financial Intelligence Unit...............70 Financial Services.............................72

Port St. Maarten...............................88 NV GEBE...........................................98 Telecommunication in St. Maarten.......................................104 Bureau Telecommunications & Post ...........................................................108

History of Sint Maarten..................76

St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA).......................110

Education System.............................78

Century 21......................................112

© Ruth Peterkin / Shutterstock.com

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Cover Image © Port St. Maarten

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

TABLE OF CONTENTS

© B Franklin / Shutterstock.com

TOURISM..........................................................114

THE NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS.................158

Philipsburg.......................................................................... 115

French Saint-Martin......................................................... 159

Map of Philipsburg............................................................ 129

Saba..................................................................................... 168

Simpson Bay...................................................................... 131

St. Eustatius........................................................................ 176

Map of Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, Maho, Mullet Bay...... 148

Anguilla............................................................................... 182

Maho Village....................................................................... 150

St. Barths............................................................................ 190

Cupecoy ‘The Riviera’..................................................... 151 ADVERTISER’S INDEX...................................192 St. Maarten Tourism Bureau........................................... 152

This book has been published by Media Publishing International N.V. Media Publishing International N.V. P.O. Box 409, Philipsburg, SINT MAARTEN (Dutch Caribbean) Tel: 1-721-527-5111 www.sxmgoldenbook.com General Manager & Publisher: Emile Cukier E-mail: emilecukier@gmail.com Layout & Design: Estrelinda Rollan-Mc Quilkin - lindarollan@gmail.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher.The publisher is not responsible for any error or omission, which may be only the result of an accident.

The publisher would like to extend thanks and appreciation to all those who contributed editorial material, information and photos for this edition.

2021 © Media Publishing International N.V. © TeodorLazarev / Shutterstock.com

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

MAP OF THE ISLAND

Map of the Island © Media Publishing International N.V.

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11 The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 10

PREFACE FROM THE HONORABLE PRIME MINISTER OF SINT MAARTEN

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THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

9

THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

Hon. Silveria E. Jacobs Prime Minister/Minister of General Affairs

Hon. Egbert J. Doran Minister of Housing & Spatial Planning, Environment & Infrastructure/Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Ardwell M.R. Irion Minister of Finance Hon. Roger Lawrence Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs,Transport, and Telecommunications Hon. Rodolphe E. Samuel Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Anna E. Richardson Minister of Justice Hon. Omar Ottley Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour Hon. Rene F.Violenus Minister Plenipotentiary, Sint Maarten House,The Hague, the Netherlands

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THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

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© Terry Kelly / Shutterstock.com

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THE PARLIAMENT OF SINT MAARTEN There are five factions represented in the 15-member chamber of parliament (as of January 2021). The six factions are the United Democrats (UD) which has one (1) member, Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Christophe Emmanuel (1) member, the National Alliance (NA) five (5) members, the United St. Maarten (US) party with two (2) members, the Party for Progress (PFP) with two members (2), and the United People’s (UP) party with four members (4).

Members of the Presidium

Rolando Brison (UP) President & Member of Parliament

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William V. Marlin (NA) 1st Vice President & Member of Parliament

Grisha S. Heyliger-Marten (UP) 2nd Vice President & Member of Parliament

Sidharth M. Bijlani (UP) Member of Parliament

Sarah A. Wescot-Williams (UD) Member of Parliament

Ludmila de Weever (UP) Member of Parliament

Melissa D. Gumbs (PFP) Member of Parliament

Angelique J.G. Romou (NA) Member of Parliament

Raeyhon A. Peterson (PFP) Member of Parliament

George C. Pantophlet (NA) Member of Parliament

Claudius A. Buncamper (US) Member of Parliament

Hyacinth L. Richardson (NA) Member of Parliament

Akeem E. Arrindell (US) Member of Parliament

Solange L. Duncan (NA) Member of Parliament

Christophe T. Emmanuel (Independent) Member of Parliament

THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

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COUNTRY SINT MAARTEN GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE & MINISTRIES GOVERNOR GENERAL PARLIAMENT 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

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THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

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CABINET OF THE MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY

W

elcome 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.

• 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

To advocate economic opportunities on the island.

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

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

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

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; 14

Contact: Prinsessegraccht 7, 2514 AN The Hague, Netherlands Tel: 070 215 6067 Email: info@kgmsxm.nl Web: kgmsxm.com

THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN........................................... 20 THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN................................................................ 22 THE COUNCIL OF ADVICE..................................................................................... 24 GENERAL AUDIT CHAMBER................................................................................... 26 SOCIAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL............................................................................ 28 THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN....................................................... 30 GENERAL INFORMATION....................................................................................... 32 CONTACTS................................................................................................................... 34 LEGAL ENTITIES.......................................................................................................... 45

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ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN

WELCOME TO SINT MAARTEN!

I

© Alexey Struyskiy / Shutterstock.com

NTRODUCTION 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 Maarten 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.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT OF SINT MAARTEN 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.

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 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.

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.

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THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN

T

he 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 St 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 St. Maarten.

AUTHORITIES OF THE GOVERNOR The Kingdom of the Netherlands is comprised of four countries: St. 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, St. Maarten has its own Governor as of that day.

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 St. Maarten and as an organ of the Kingdom.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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THE GOVERNOR OF SINT MAARTEN THE GOVERNOR AS ORGAN OF THE COUNTRY ST. MAARTEN As organ of the country of St. 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 St. 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: • The establishment and promulgation of national ordinances and the signing of national decrees, containing general measures.

• The appointment, suspension and dismissal of civil servants and the establishment of their remuneration; • The management of the finances and domains (properties) of St. Maarten; • The granting of remission of sentence and dispensations; • Granting permission for military aircraft and vessels of a foreign power to enter airspace or territorial waters of St. 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 PrimeMinister 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 advices the Government and Parliament on (draft) legislation.

The Governor also participates in the legislative branch of Government of St. Maarten. The Governor presents draft national ordinances for approval to the Parliament and The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

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:

• Maintaining the independence and the defense of the Kingdom • • • •

(Commander of Armed Forces); Foreign relations; Dutch nationality; The regulation of the knighthoods (The Royal honors) Provide for the realization and supervision of the observance of kingdom laws, general administrative measures and international agreements.

In this regard citizens of St. 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.

CONTACT: The Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten Falcon Drive 3, Harbour View Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: +1 (721) 542 - 1160 Fax: +1 (721) 542 - 1187 Email: kabinet@kabgsxm.com Web: www.kabgsxm.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

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THE COUNCIL OF ADVICE

T

HE TASK OF THE COUNCIL OF ADVICE

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND The Council of Advice has existed since October 10th, 2010, the day on which the former Netherlands Antilles ceased to exist, and Sint Maarten attained its Country Status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Just like Aruba in 1986, Sint Maarten and Curaçao received this new status. While the other remaining islands, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba became Public bodies belonging to the Netherlands.With this new autonomous status, Sint Maarten gained a Constitution, along with the High Councils of State, the Council of Advice falling thereunder.

and National Decrees containing general measures issued by the Government, [1] the Government of the Kingdom [2] and proposals for approval of the Treaties that have binding effect in Sint Maarten. Parliament is obligated to hear the Council on initiative legislation coming from one or more Parliamentarians. The so-called initiative National Ordinance.

Furthermore, the Council is obligated to advise on all matters that are considered necessary by Government and in instances that are prescribed by law. For example, the Council advises the Prime-Minister about unwanted commercial affiliation (interest), conflicting secondary functions and activities based on the National Ordinance promotion of the integrity of ministers.The Council also has the authority to, on its own accord, issue advices to Government and Parliament. These

The function of the Council of Advice was executed prior to October 10th, 2010 by the Council of Advice to the Netherlands Antilles. The Task of the Council of Advice is derived from the task of the department of Advice of the Council of State of the Netherlands that has a long history dating back to the year 1531.

advices are called unsolicited advices.

With regard to the National Ordinances where Parliament and Government form the highest legislator, a request for review should be sent to the Council of Advice before submission for adoption and ratification by Parliament. In case of an Initiative National Ordinance, before the draft legislation is submitted to the Central Committee of Parliament for

PROVIDING ADVICE The Council of Advice is tasked with providing the Government and Parliament with advice regarding legislation and administrative actions. Together with the Parliament, General Audit Chamber and Ombudsman, the Council of Advice is referred to as one of the High Councils of State.

We are a part of the system of checks and balances provided for in the Constitution of Sint Maarten.The High Councils of State are institutions established by the Constitution and are independent from Government with regard to the execution of their powers.

debate [3]. Legislation that is approved by Government without the involvement of Parliament is referred to as a National Decree containing general measures and it also is submitted to the Council before it can be ratified by Government. With its Further Report government responds to the Council’s advice. It is essential in the Further Report that the points not taken over by the Government should be addressed and sufficiently justified. [4] [1] Draft National Ordinance and National Decrees containing general measures [2] Draft Kingdom Act and Decrees

Based on the Constitution the government has an obligation

[3] Here it pertains to draft National Ordinances

to request the Council to give an advice about all draft

[4] Here it pertains to draft National Decrees containing general measures

proposal legislation, specifically draft National Ordinance 24

GENERAL INFORMATION

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THE COUNCIL OF ADVICE MISSION

STRUCTURE

The Council of Advice will guard the democracy and constitutional

The Council consists of five members including a

state of Sint Maarten by providing independent, qualitative,

vice-chairperson and 5 extra-ordinary members. At the

accurate, sound, just and fair advice to the government and

moment the Council has three extra-ordinary members

parliament.

that also function as replacement Council members and can prepare pre-advices to the Council.The Governor can fill his position as Chairperson at any time and whenever he deems

VISION

it fit to do so.As chairperson he has an advisory role.The vice-

The Council of Advice is a professional advisory body functioning

chair, the rest of the members and extra-ordinary members

in a representative setting that provides independent, effective,

are appointed for seven years and can be reappointed. Sint

academic and just advice to the government and parliament with

Maarten’s appointed member of the Kingdom’s Council of

the aim to stimulate them to enact qualitative legislation in the

State is an extra-ordinary member of the Council and may

benefit of a good functioning democratic society for the people

be present for the meetings held by the Council. Presently,

and the Sint Maarten community as a whole.

Sint Maarten has not appointed a member to the Kingdom’s Council of State.

CONSTITUTIONAL POSITION The Council of Advice, the last advisory body of Government

The chosen structure of the Council strives to encompass a wide section of the political and social spectrum. Collectively

and Parliament, has a constitutionally regulated independent

the members have a wide range of political, administrative

position. The Council takes an independent, impartial and

and legal expertise. The Council does not function as a

objective position while advising Government and Parliament.

specific expert council but rather as a general advisor. The Advices of the specialized councils with expertise in their

Unlike Government and Parliament, the Council is not

fields form part of the dossier that the Council of Advice

democratically legitimized. The Council derives its authority

receives as final and highest advisor to government.

from its scientific approach in its advices.

The advices of the Council are not binding. The Council does not have the power to prevent proposals of law from becoming law, or to force Parliament or Government to amend their proposals. Government and Parliament should use the advices of the Council to enhance the quality of their draft laws.

In this manner the Council plays its role as guardian of the rule of law without compromising the democratic principles.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

Council of Advice Sint Maarten E.C. Richardson Street 13, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: +1 (721) 542-0953 Fax: +1 (721) 542-0963 Web: councilofadvicesxm.com

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GENERAL AUDIT CHAMBER

O

UR STRATEGY

AUDITS

With our audits we evaluate and then

Compliance audits: the compliance audit deals with the extent

report on the effectiveness of government

to which the rules, laws and regulations, policy, established

expenditure. In so doing, we provide information and

codes or agreed upon terms, are adhered to.

recommendations that can contribute to the improvement and efficiency of public expenditure which is in the general

Financial audits: we make an assessment of financial

interest of the community. Our strategy is based on the

transactions and information as reflected in the financial

principles of accountability, efficiency and effectiveness of

statements prepared by the responsible public entities. For

public finances and policy.

example, we review the financial statements of Sint Maarten, and we also audit the General Pension Fund of Sint Maarten

MISSION

(APS).

Our primary task is to audit government and in doing so, we seek to contribute to the effectiveness, transparency and betterment

Performance audits: these investigations consider broader

of government.

management issues within government organizations or programs.We investigate whether the services or procedures

AUDIT SCOPE

used by government achieve the expected objectives in

All persons in possession of funds, securities or goods belonging to St. Maarten are accountable to the General Audit Chamber. This includes management of the parliamentary

an effective, economical and efficient manner. These audits review the “value for money”.

budget.

Integrity audits: integrity demands knowledge of, and

OUR ROLE

and unwritten rules. As such, the integrity audit seeks to

compliance with, both the letter and the spirit of the written

Our findings and recommendations as presented in our reports, are meant to facilitate Parliament. It is Parliament who is responsible and authorized to hold ministers accountable for the financial management within their respective ministries. Results presented in the reports can also be used by ministers to improve their operations and

review the administrative integrity of political officials or civil servants in the execution of their functions and authorities.

ORGANIZATION Our independent position within St. Maarten means that we determine what topics to audit, as well as how the audit

optimize public services.

will be conducted. As a matter of internal policy, we have

With our audits, we evaluate and report on the effectiveness

When choosing which subjects to audit, we often review

developed an ‘Audit Protocol’ to guide our audit activities.

of government expenditure and contribute to improvement and efficiency in the general interest of the public.

Our reports are public as soon as they are received by Parliament.

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areas of increased risk. Risks can be assessed on the basis of, for example, the complexity of processes, the quality and quantity of staffing and the organization of internal control.

Our independence is guaranteed by law and is characterized by our ability to independently initiate audits. If Parliament

GENERAL INFORMATION

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GENERAL AUDIT CHAMBER requests that we investigate a certain subject, we decide whether to comply with the request, and if so, we determine the manner in which the request will be executed.

BOARD & STAFF The Board of the General Audit Chamber currently consists of a chairman, two members and two deputy members.

The daily operations of the General Audit Chamber are managed by the Secretary General who currently manages a team of audit and administrative professionals.

The©Golden of Sint Maarten 11 Debbie AnnBook Powell / Shutterstock.com

General Audit Chamber Juancho Yrasquin Boulevard 10, Unit 4-5 Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, D.W.I. Tel: (1-721) 542-1004 Fax: (1-721) 542-1013 Email: info@arsxm.org Web: www.arsxm.org

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SOCIAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL

W

HAT IS THE SOCIAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL?

The Social Economic Council is an independent advisory organization of the country of Sint Maarten. The council consists

of

three

representatives

from

employers’

organizations, three

representatives

from

employees’

organizations, and three independent experts. All board members have a substitute member. The chairman of the board is an independent expert. The board is assisted by the secretariat of the Social Economic Council. The secretariat consists of five staff members. Obligated by the constitution

orientated governance. Participatory governance means that

of the new country of Sint Maarten the government signed

governing is too important to be left only to the government.

the ordinance of the Social Economic Council into law in

As citizens we can do more for our society than to turn up

December 2010.

to vote once in every four years. Government can benefit from the knowledge and experience within civil society.

WHAT IS OUR MISSION?

The ordinance of the Social Economic Council makes sure

The Social Economic Council seeks to contribute to

experience and knowledge from civil society have a voice

good governance on Sint Maarten. Good governance is

and can advise the government of Sint Maarten.

participatory, consensus oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive,

The Council contributes to participatory government but

and follows the rule of law. Together these principles for

also carries the spirit of consensus-oriented government.

governance form the conditions for sustainable human

Representatives from employees and organizations and

development.

independent experts stand strong if they agree after consultation and stand together.At the same time government

Through its constitutional role the Social Economic Council

is able to find out what society thinks about policies and draft

contributes specifically to participatory and consensus

law through the discussion in the Social Economic Council.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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SOCIAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL A unanimous positive advice or adaption on draft law is a strong signal from civil society.

Furthermore, the Council

provides a forum where representatives from employees and employers organizations discuss issues important to both.

WHAT IS THE TASK OF THE SOCIAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL?

of

General

Affairs will make the

advice

public

after which the advice will also be posted on this website.

The Social and Economic Council provides the government

UNSOLICITED ADVICE

of Sint Maarten with solicited and unsolicited advice on all

Board- and staff members of the Council can

important social and economic issues.

submit social economic topics relevant for the community

How does the Council work?

of Sint Maarten to the board agenda for discussion. After discussion in the board meeting if the board agrees that the

SOLICITED ADVICE

policy area is eligible for unsolicited advice, an advice can be

The council receives a request for advice from a minister

drawn. After which the process of unsolicited advice follows

of the cabinet regarding a policy or draft law. To be able to

the same path as solicited advice.

write an advice the Council conducts research on the basis of quantitative and qualitative data, relevant literature and policy documents, and the identification of stakeholders.

After discussion and approval in the board meeting the advice is adapted and made final. The final advice is submitted to

Social Economic Council Building 2 / Unit 4K, Eagle Rd., Philipsburg, Sint Maarten (Dutch Caribbean) Email: info@sersxm.org Web: www.ser.sx

the Minster of General Affairs of Sint Maarten. The Minister

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THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN 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

O

the Caribbean Ombudsman Association.The Ombudsman of Sint Maarten is a member of both organizations. In 2012 the

RIGIN:

Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was elected to be one of the

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

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

authority in the land.

internal complaints; these report to the CEO or board of

Countries in all parts of the world have followed the

against government bodies or entities charged with public

directors, whereas an ombudsman who deals with complaints

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.

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

30

ORDINANCES GOVERNING THE TASKS AND COMPETENCES OF THE OMBUDSMAN: THE CONSTITUTION OF SINT MAARTEN (AB 2010 NO. L);

ESTABLISHMENT

Ombudsman of Sint Maarten was appointed.

authority, in general reports to the Parliament of the country.

THE NATIONAL ORDINANCE OMBUDSMAN (AB 2010 NO. 20); THE NATIONAL ORDINANCE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT (AB 2010 NO.29)

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

THE INSTITUTION OF THE OMBUDSMAN COMPETENCIES OF THE OMBUDSMAN

laws (in association with Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten) and Laws of an urgent nature.

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 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

1.

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.

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

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

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

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.

2.

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

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

6 weeks after ratification of the law. Exceptions: Uniformed

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

GENERAL INFORMATION

31

GENERAL INFORMATION

A

© Sean Pavone /Shutterstock.com

BOUT 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.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

GENERAL INFORMATION POPULATION

ELECTRICITY

The population of Sint Maarten is approximately 60,400 as of

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

the end of 2016 comprising of more than 150 nationalities.

(60 cycles) on the French side.

Apart from persons born on Curacao, Aruba, Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire, Sint Maarten and Dutch nationals, the 10

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

countries with the highest populations on the Dutch side of

Telephone service is all over as well as cellular phone and

the island are: Dominican Republic, Haiti, Dominica, Jamaica,

internet service. The island is well connected with the

Guyana, India, Great Britain, France, St. Kitts & Nevis, and

international community.

St. Lucia according to statistical information provided by the Civil Registry Department.

TIME ZONE

2021 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS All government offices and businesses are officially closed on the following annual public holidays:

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

New Year’s Day

Friday, January 1st, 2021

Good Friday

Friday, April 2nd, 2021

Easter Sunday

Sunday, April 4th, 2021

The official languages are Dutch and English as stated in the

Easter Monday

Monday, April 5th, 2021

Constitution of Sint Maarten.

King’s Day

Tuesday, April 27th, 2021

CURRENCY

Carnival Day

Friday, April 30th, 2021

Labour Day

Saturday, May 1st, 2021

The official currency of Sint Maarten at this time remains

Ascension Day

Thursday, May 13th, 2021

the Netherlands Antillean Florin (Guilder; Naf./Fls.) and is

Whit Sunday

Sunday, May 23rd, 2021

fixed to the U.S. Dollar at an exchange rate of 1.79 and 1.82.

Emancipation Day

Thursday, July 1st, 2021

The official currency of the North side of the island is the

Constitution Day

Monday, October 11th, 2021

Euro. No official rate exists. The Euro value depends on the

Sint Maarten Day

Thursday, November 11th, 2021

Christmas Day

Saturday, December 25th, 2021

Boxing Day

Sunday, December 26th, 2021

LANGUAGES

international exchange rate and is between 1.25 and 1.40 US$. The US Dollar is widely accepted on both sides of the island.

The©Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11 byvalet / Shutterstock.com

Copies of these National Public Holidays Schedules may be obtained via the Government website www.sintmaartengov.org

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CONTACTS TELEPHONE CODE FOR SINT MAARTEN:

1-721

© eskystudio /Shutterstock.com

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 34

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

CONTACTS Department of Communications

Department of Business License & Permits

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

Bico Building, Zout Steeg 3, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Tel: ............................................................................................... 542-2986

Tel: ....................................................................... 542-4119 / 543-1162

Fax: .............................................................................................. 542-7822

Fax: .............................................................................................. 543-1169 Email:........................................................dcomm@sintmaartengov.org

Department of Finance Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Legal Affairs

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

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

Any additional information that you may require can be obtained by calling the following numbers:

Tel: 542-2233 Fax: 542-4884 at the

Government Administration Building Reception Desk.

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 Krippa Commercial Building, Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard #6, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: ....................................................................... 549-0200 / 542-2337 Fax: .............................................................................................. 542-2734 Email:...................................................................info@e-stmaarten.com Web:...........................................................www.vacationstmaarten.com Department of Economic Affairs Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: .................................... 542-2233 / 2535 / 4300 / 2534 / 4305 36

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

CONTACTS 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.

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

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.

Republic Bank Simpson Bay Yacht Club, Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten Tel: ............................................................................... 544-3390 / 3392 Fax: .............................................................................................. 544-3396 Email:............................................................ republicbank.an@rfhl.com

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

BECM Bank Union Road 133, Cole Bay, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................. 546-0609

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

© Steve Heap /Shutterstock.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 The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

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

GENERAL INFORMATION

41

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

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GENERAL INFORMATION

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

CONTACTS Post Office

Notary Office Steeman

N. Debrot Street 2, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten

Professional Office Park, Point Blanche, Sint Maarten

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

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

Fax:................................................................................................ 542-3308

Fax:................................................................................................ 542-9929

Notary Office Gijsbertha Francis Fouress Building, Emmaplein, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................. 542-2684 Fax:................................................................................................ 542-4978 Notary Office Speetjens & Associates Front Street #5, Suite 4, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel:................................................................................................. 542-2339 Fax:................................................................................................ 542-2439

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

GENERAL INFORMATION

43

44

© Debbie Ann Powell /Shutterstock.com

LEGAL ENTITIES BESLOTEN VENNOOTSCHAP BV/ PRIVATE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

suspension, and dismissal of Managing Directors, nor is there a difference between shareholders’ meetings and Board meetings in this case. The shareholders may determine the

The private limited liability company (besloten vennootschap,

details of the way in which they will manage the company,

hereinafter also “BV”) is a flexible and highly modern form

the division of tasks mutually agreed upon, etcetera, in a

of a corporation.

shareholders’ agreement. Using this type of company, a legal concept can be created that resembles the partnership

The BV is a company similar to the Limited Liability

(commanditaire vennootschap), the general partnership

Company (NV). The main differences with the NV

(maatschap), or the limited partnership (vennootschap

are:

onder firma), and at the same time benefits from the fact

• The BV has registered shares only; • The Articles of Incorporation can determine that the

that, as opposed to partnerships, this company managed by

shareholders can be held liable for the debts of the BV;

shareholders is a legal entity with the ability to act, sue and be sued in its own name.

• The Articles of Incorporation of the BV can contain a different manner for dissolution of the company;

The BV is in principle subject to profit tax. However, a full

• If preferential rights should be attached to shares, such

exemption can be applied for if the activities are investing

should be provided for in the Articles of Incorporation of

in debt instruments, securities and deposits. The company

the BV;

should not be subject to supervision of the Central Bank

• Delivery of shares of an BV can only take place in the

as being a bank or a financial institution. Also, the company should prepare annual accounts and have them audited by

manner as provided for by law;

• There is no distinctive financial regime such as for the

an independent expert. These conditions are in line with current international standards and therefore should not

“large” NV;

• There is a more flexible regulation for convening

form an unacceptable hurdle for serious investors.

shareholders meetings for the BV than for the NV;

• The Independent Supervisory Board is not regulated in the law;

• Only the BV has the possibility of company “managed by shareholders”.

The option of a company “managed by shareholders” has been introduced for the BV. This was done to meet the wishes of enterprises familiar with American law.This form of the private limited liability company does not have a Board of Managing Directors as a separate corporate body. The joint shareholders act as management, which simplifies the taking of corporate action and the management of this type of company in general. Since no Managing Directors have been appointed as such, there are no formalities of appointment, The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

COMMANDITAIRE VENNOOTSCHAP (CV)/ LIMITED PARTNERSHIP The Commanditaire Vennootschap (“CV”) is a limited partnership in which there is a distinction drawn between the limited partners and the general or managing partners.

The general or managing partners manage the affairs of the CV and represent it in dealings with third parties. They are jointly and severally liable for the debts of the CV. A limited partner however contributes to the partnership a certain amount of capital. His liability is limited to the amount of capital contributed. A limited

GENERAL INFORMATION

45

LEGAL ENTITIES partner

is

prohibited

from

directly

managing the affairs of the CV, however he can represent the general partners as their attorney-at-fact.

If a limited partner is involved in the direct management of a CV he forfeits his right to the protection of limited liability and becomes jointly and severally liable for the debts of the partnership, together with the general or managing partners.

Dutch Caribbean Islands’ partnerships are formed by either a notarial or a private deed. The absence of a signed deed however cannot be used to defeat the claims of third parties.

Partnerships must be registered at the Commercial Registry.

It is not necessary to disclose the identity of limited partners.

Foreign corporations and/or individuals can act as limited or as general or managing partner.

VENNOOTSCHAP ONDER FIRMA (VOF)/GENERAL PARTNERSHIP The Vennootschap Onder Firma (“VOF”) is a general partnership in which the individual partners are jointly and severally liable for the debts of the partnership.

SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP What is a Sole Proprietorship? A Sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak in Dutch) is a form of business I which there is no distinction between the business assets and personal assets. As the owner of a one-man business, you will be personally liable for all obligations of the business.A marriage contract (prenuptial agreement) is important and should be considered if a separation of assets between spouses is desired. A marriage contract has to be effectuated through a notarial deed.

BUSINESS LICENSE The instances in which a license is required for operation, as prescribed by the National Ordinance Regulation on Establishment of Businesses (Landsverordening vestigingsregeling voor Bedrijven), a business license must be requested.

46

Individuals born outside the Dutch Kingdom, but who have lived in Sint Maarten for more than 5 years, need a business license in order to establish a sole proprietorship.

PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION A business license is requested through a filed petition supported by the required documentation, addressed to the Minister of Tourism Economics Affairs and Telecommunications (TEATT), through the department of Economics Affairs, Business License division, located at: Soualiga Road #1, Government Administration Building, Pond Island, Great Bay; Tel: (721) 542-2986 Fax: (721) 543-7822 A requirement listing can be found by accessing this URL. http://www.sintmaartengov.org/government/TEATT/ Department-ofEconomic-Licenses/Pages/BusinessLicense.aspx

COMPANY REGISTRATION All businesses operating in St. Maarten must be registered in the Commercial Register of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry (COCI).

Sole Proprietorship is registered through: • Completion and submission of a Model A form • Copy of the application form for a business license (for foreign born nationals only) • Identification (identification card, driver’s license, passport) • Name of the business • Address of the business • Invested capital • Name of owner • Contact information of owner • Crib number of owner

ALL OTHER LEGAL ENTITIES ARE REGISTERED: The Association, Foundation and Limited Liability companies are registered through completion and submission of correctly filled in pertinent forms, supported by required documentation, including but not limited to a copy of the notarial deed of incorporation, copies of passport for all

GENERAL INFORMATION

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LEGAL ENTITIES Directors and/or Board members, contact information on Directors and/or Board members.

COSTS Prior to the incorporation or registration of a company a name check is required to verify whether or not the name of the business can be permitted for use in St. Maarten. The administrative processing costs related to the Name check are ANG 45.The First registration costs must be paid to have a registration completed. The costs for an extract ad ANG 20,- shall apply for every extract desired as of the moment of registration. Every registered business irrespective of its legal form is obligated to pay the annual fee due. The applicable tariffs which may change from time to time are set forth under the tab Regulations and Policies.

An extract of the registration of a legal entity is a document consisting of the following information:

• • • • • •

Name of the business Date of registration Address of the business Name of the owner/Director(s)/Board member(s) Registration number Business purpose

In case a new extract is required, a new copy should be ordered at least one day in advance!

FOUNDATION

ownership. Any distributions are then neither out of its own funds nor out of its own income and are thus permissible. Also, the restriction does not apply to liquidation distributions: it is permissible to state in the articles of incorporation that upon liquidation the assets shall be distributed to e.g. the incorporator. A foundation can for example act as custodian or trustee of assets, entrusted and transferred to it for the purpose of investing, administering and managing such assets on behalf of third parties. A foundation is therefore an ideal vehicle to realize an economic transfer, without transferring control of the assets.

The principal difference between a foundation and a corporation is that a foundation has neither members (association) nor shareholders, nor a capital divided into shares.The board of a foundation, which manages its affairs, is therefore, not subject to the overall control of shareholders or members. The initial managing board is appointed at the moment of incorporation. Thereafter vacancies are filled as set forth in the articles of incorporation.

The foundation may be formed for an unlimited duration, for a certain period of time, or until a specified event occurs.

The foundation can be dissolved by resolution of the board, unless the articles of incorporation provide otherwise. It is for example possible that the incorporator has the authority to dissolve the foundation.

A foundation (or stichting in Dutch) is a legal entity in its own right with its own assets and liabilities.The legal concept of the foundation developed ages ago from capital being set aside for a special nonprofit or charitable purpose and was originally used by religious and welfare groups. The foundation is still frequently used for religious and nonprofit organizations. Distributions to incorporators or to those, who constitute its bodies, are not allowed, and its distributions are furthermore restricted by law to distributions with an ideal or social purpose.

ASSOCIATION

The foregoing does not mean that the use of a common foundation is restricted to charitable purposes. It can be and is extensively used in structures in which the foundation is the legal owner of assets of which others hold the economic

For more information on legal entities assistance can be sought from a Notary at law or an Attorney at law in St. Maarten.

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

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

Is a common legal form utilized for organizations made up of members having equal contribution in and rights to participation, responsibility and liability. This legal form is often used for sports and cultural organizations, in which an elected board by the general meeting of members, works in the interest of the membership. Associations are mostly non-profit entities. The incorporation of Associations can be done by notarial deed, which document than dictates the internal and external functioning of the Association.

GENERAL INFORMATION

47

INVESTMENT GUIDE BUSINESS LICENSE..................................................................................................... 50 BDO ST. MAARTEN..................................................................................................... 56 TAXATION.................................................................................................................... 60 INCENTIVES.................................................................................................................. 64 DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS (STAT).................................................................. 66 BUREAU FOR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY......................................................... 68 FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT........................................................................ 70 FINANCIAL SERVICES................................................................................................ 72 HISTORY OF SINT MAARTEN................................................................................. 76 EDUCATION SYSTEM................................................................................................ 78 UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN................................................................................... 79 PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT............................................. 82 PORT ST. MAARTEN................................................................................................... 88 NV GEBE........................................................................................................................ 98 TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN...................................................... 104 BUREAU TELECOMMUNICATION & POST...................................................... 108 ST. MAARTEN HOSPITALITY & TRADE ASSOCIATION (SHTA).................. 110 CENTURY 21............................................................................................................... 112 48

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

BUSINESS LICENSE

T

HE 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

(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

Company (N.V.) There are also other legal bodies on St. Maarten, e.g. the Private Limited Liability Company (B.V.), Partnership Firm

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

2 Persons who are naturalized Dutch.

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

4 Persons of foreign nationality married to an Antillean.

5 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: 50

INVESTMENT GUIDE

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

BUSINESS LICENSE

© Nicola Pulham / Shutterstock.com

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES

1 The name of the business 2 The name of the owner

A limited liability company is a corporate body with

3 The nature and objectives of the business

shareholders, governed by corporate law and its articles of

4 The investment capital

association.

5 The location of the business

THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSES

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

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

incorporator do not have to be a citizen of the Netherlands

2 A copy of your passport

director and needs a business license.

3 A copy of your curriculum vitae. (resume) 4 A copy of your diploma(s) certificate(s) (only needed I case to depict a certain expertise) 5 A copy of your police record. (not valid after six months) 6 The exact business location

Antilles but one of the directors has to be registered on St. Maarten. A limited liability company can have more than one

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

7 Your present home or mailing address

Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten. The letter

8 Your present telephone number

must mention:

9 A copy of Census registration from.

1 The name of the business

10 A copy your permanent residency permits.

2 The name of the owner

11 A copy of your marriage book.

3 The nature and objectives of the business 4 The investment capital

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

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5 The place of establishment

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

BUSINESS LICENSE

© Nicola Pulham / Shutterstock.com

THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LICENSES: 1 A letter addressed to the Executive Council requesting a business license. This request should be written in the Dutch language.

2 A copy of your passport of director(s)

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

3 A copy of your curriculum vitae. (resume) of director (s)

the business on the Netherlands Antilles and then request a

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

business license on St. Maarten.

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

GRANTING PROCEDURE FOR A BUSINESS LICENSE:

6 The exact address of business

At the granting of the business license the Executive Council

7 Your present home or mailing address

of the Island of St. Maarten is authorized to connect conditions

8 Your present telephone number

concerning the nature and the place of the business as also

Please take note that any request received by the department

concerning the creditworthiness of the applicant and the

that is not sufficiently documented will not processed.

financing of the business. A business license can be refused in the interest of the public order, peace and general interest

NOTARY:

of St. Maarten.

Entrepreneurs that are going to incorporate their company for the business and management license including the

THE CHANGING OF DATA OF A BUSINESS LICENSE:

payment of fees. Incorporation of a business can be done

When changes occur in a business e.g. the name or location

at any notary’s office in the Netherlands Antilles. But the

of a business changes etc. you must request the Executive

notarial act has to state that the establishment will be done

Council of the Island of St. Maarten to make changes in your

on St. Maarten.

license. Changes can be requested by sending a letter to the

can also let the notary’s office handle the request procedure

Executive Council of the Island of St. Maarten.

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

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53

BUSINESS LICENSE

© Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock.com

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

the Immigration Department for a residence permit; if granted then you are allowed to work

1 A letter to the Executive Council requesting the change of your foreign address to your local address 2 Copy of the company’s business license 1

6 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

3 Copy of your director’s license 4 Copy of Census Registration

Businesses that are going to sell drinks or food and/or rent

THE ZONING PLAN:

accommodation also need to request for a beverage and

To know where you may establish your company on St.

horeca license. Those that do not have a Dutch Nationality

Maarten you will have to contact VROM. They have a Zoning

must also have a residence and work permit. For more

plan stating the location where companies may establish.

information about these licenses and permits, brochures are available at:

MANAGEMENT LICENSE:

Department of Licenses

All individuals born outside the Netherlands Antilles need

Public Vending and Economic Control

a management license in order to start and to operate a

Zoutsteeg Streetv #3, Philipsburg

business on St. Maarten. The Management license can be

Tel: 1(721) 542-2986

requested by letter addressed to the Executive Council

Fax: 1(721) 543-7822

of the Island of St. Maarten. A Management License is not necessary for an E.Z. (one-man business). The letter must mention: 1 The name of the business

After the business and management licenses have been

2 The name, place and date of birth of the applicant

granted, businesses must be registered at the Chamber of

3 The nationality of the applicant

Commerce and Industry. A fee upon inscription.

4 The nature and objective of the business

Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

5 The acquisition of the director’s license does not allow you work on the island; a request must be submitted to

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REGISTRATION OF BUSINESSES

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

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BDO ST. MAARTEN RETHINK – NAVIGATING THE NEW REALITY WITH PAUL LUNGU – MANAGING DIRECTOR BDO SINT MAARTEN. While St. Maarten’s economic outlook remains challenging, the pandemic has re-emphasized the importance of what business agility really means. The COVID-19 crisis will continue to affect businesses in different ways and at different times. It is accepted that the world will change as a consequence of COVID-19 and businesses need to imagine this ‘new reality’ as early as possible - and rethink how they will be positioned in it. We are discussing with Paul Lungu – Managing Director BDO St. Maarten about possibilities that can be used to manage business priorities, address issues and leverage thinking, acting as an extra dimension for strategic level consideration and discussion.

For over a year now we observed how the buzzing of activity that defines a visit to St. Maarten gave way to ghost towns when the pandemic hit. Though resorts, restaurants and casinos reopened, foot traffic remained light and businesses struggle to minimize losses.As a result, organizations focused on gaming and hospitality have had no choice but to rethink their business strategies to regain revenue lost from initial shutdowns and the continued lack of physical consumer presence, in addition to making investments to ensure and promote customer and employee safety. Certain trends that were developing before the pandemic have been accelerated, while previous ways of doing business may remain part of the past. The Sint Maarten economy is highly dependent on tourism, restaurants, hotels, and other tourism-related sectors account for about 45% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with a per-capita GDP of US$29,495 (IMF, February 2021). We believe that Sint Maarten has largely adapted to the international trends identified below and we are of the opinion that successful implementation of the National Recovery Program is instrumental for an accelerated recovery of our economy.

Now, more than ever, business leaders realize the importance of speed of reaction in response to changes in the market.

Over the past months, the key enabler was the level of 56

digitalization within each organization. We could observe an accelerated transformation of the operating model for various businesses operating in different industries in Sint Maarten. Irrespective of the their activity, all of them placed digitalization as their top priority and repositioned their processes around what proved to be the new normal.

Working from home revealed how many distractions are at the office with most of our professionals spending a significant higher amount of productive hours during the lockdown period than when working from our office. While digital collaboration tools have become critical to remote work and will remain post-pandemic, the new way of work also unveiled the need for social interaction, where BDO Dutch Caribbean organized a number of internal events particularly created to mitigate this gap. Hybrid work models are anticipated to proliferate in 2021 and are likely to endure.

To attract and retain these employees, companies, including BDO St. Maarten, are planning to provide more options to make hybrid work/life work for them.

HOSPITALITY

Hotel, restaurant and casino operators have had to implement new protocols during the pandemic to comply with safety measures. Because there is no telling how long the pandemic will last, even with vaccines in play, some of these new protocols—especially those that require significant investment—may become permanent. Internationally many casinos are replacing the traditional buffet with food halls, including grab-and-go and fast casual options, and offering technology that allows patrons to order from their tables.

Other changes in the industry that may be permanent include revised gaming floor layouts that promote social distancing, with gaps between gaming positions and plexiglass barriers between dealers and gamblers. Until the vaccines are widely distributed and the pandemic officially under control, fewer player positions will be offered at tables. Other safety measures, such as requiring masks and temperature checkpoints upon entering, will linger for as long as the pandemic does, and are likely to continue past that.

The pandemic has accelerated digital adoption within hotels, restaurants and casinos, reinforcing trends that improve customer experience. Hotels especially have noted the value in implementing new technology with the intention of simplifying the guest experience and enforcing contactless interactions. Allowing customers to have control over their stay with mobile check-in and check-out has reduced the need for physical employee and guest interactions. Some international surveys indicate that up to 90% of hotel

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

BDO ST. MAARTEN guests prefer that hotels offer mobile check-in to eliminate unnecessary in-person encounters. This coincides with the trend of keyless check-in, which allows guests to use their mobile phones as key access to their hotel room. Many chefs are revisiting their menus and limiting their offerings to save on staffing and prep time. This will have an impact moving forward, as restaurants may choose to only serve their most popular meals, or those that are most suited for takeout.

traditional players within the industry, the StarLink project aims to be a direct competitor to telecoms, delivering internet via a network of satellites and has already been successfully launched. If the networks prove competitive – it could help to achieve broadband connection in remote areas where traditional fiber connections/full scale 5G networks economically are not meaningful.

The bottom line is that until the pandemic is officially over, competitive menus and contactless room service will remain the norm in hotels around the world. We anticipate the mobile trend allowing contactless payment and mobile bookings will extend to allow guests to also make purchases and even gamble. In short, operators in the gaming and hospitality industry are laser focused on high-tech/low-touch solutions using smartphones, and it is likely this technology will become commonplace in the years to come.

For the financial sector, there’s a mix of new opportunities and challenges. Increased financial digitization and digital transformation are among new opportunities, while the general economic slowdown and changing funding and market dynamics lead to increased challenges. For Fintechs, innovation remains imperative.There are historical examples of those companies who innovate during a recession better position themselves for future opportunities. However, there are also inherent risks with breaking barriers. There are a number of innovative opportunities for tech companies, including Big Data, AI, Robotic Process Automation, 5G and blockchain.

Since significant uncertainty still remains regarding the pandemic, it is vital that hotel and casino operators prioritize and promote employee and guest safety, while remaining cognizant of the impact precautions will have on the experience that customers expect.

CRUISE INDUSTRY

With enhanced measures in place, an initial resumption of cruising began in Europe and some other parts of the world earlier this year. In July 2021, Sint Maarten made history with the first ship to sail in North America in over a year. This success did not pass unnoticed and Port St. Maarten Group received in September 2021 the Seatrade Cruise Award, being the global cruise industry’s most distinguished award programme, in the category #WeAreBack.Worldwide, cruise industry’s restarted in September 2021 with around 205 ships in service, represented approximately 50 percent of the global oceangoing cruise fleet according to Cruise Industry News.

FINANCIAL SECTOR

HELPING NAVIGATE DISRUPTION AND GRASP OPPORTUNITIES

Throughout the REACT, RESILIENCE and REALISE phases, companies will need to address a wide variety of business areas, processes, and strategies. Not only internally, but also in relation to partners, collaborators, customers, and clients. We at BDO are ready to assist your company throughout all the phases.

BDO has developed a Covid-19 business readiness diagnostic tool and action platform that can be used as a starting point for assessing a situation and formulating responses.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

COVID-19 led to rising digital infrastructure needs, including for work-from-home and remote work, such as videoconferencing, data sharing, and cloud systems. The pandemic put pressure on telecom operators’ systems in terms of maintaining smooth functioning and connectivity under increased demand. In response, following global trends, one of the main telecom providers in St. Maarten announced a significant increase of the internet speed taking the fiber network infrastructure to a whole new level. Outside the

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BDO ST. MAARTEN BDO’s Rethink Framework provides support to businesses in identifying the key stages, issues and opportunities available for succeeding. The three-stage model identifies React, Resilience and Realise as components of an integral system that should be embedded within any business.

ST. MAARTEN Paul Lungu is a member 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.

BDO’s global organisation extends across 167 countries and territories, with 91,054 people working out of 1,658 offices – and they’re all working towards one goal: to provide our clients with exceptional service.

BDO is monitoring developments across the globe with a focus on the +160 territories where we are present. Our ‘globally local’ DNA makes us the optimal partner for navigating aid and stimulus packages, as well as all other parts of the REACT, RESILIENCE and REALISE phases.

Our services cover all aspects, as well as all growth stages, of companies operating in various industries. Be it audits, business services, assurance, tax advice, M&A, funding, risk assurance and mitigation, etc., we are ready to assist your company.

BDO St. Maarten B.V. Sparrow Road 4, Philipsburg, ST. MAARTEN Tel: +1 721 543 0614 Fax: +1 721 543 0615 www.bdo.sx

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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 highlty recognized global organisation.

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.

Paul Lungu Managing Director paul.lungu@bdo.sx

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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.

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

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

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

incentives in order to stimulate investment. These incentives

from the salary of the employee and together with the

include credits on investments, depreciation acceleration, and

employers contribution is paid to the SZV and the Receivers

tax holidays. (The latter is elaborated on in the tax holiday

respectively.

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.

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:

A.O.V. A.W.W. 60

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

The abbreviations A.O.V. and A.W.W. stand for “General

PREMIUM

TURNOVER TAX (TOT)

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;

EMPLOYER

EMPLOYEE

7% 0.5%

6% 0.5%

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

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The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

TAXATION • Turnover realized on transport services by aircraft or sea

• Turnover realized by hotels (for the part of rental of

vessels.

hotel rooms and apartments) are exempted insofar as room tax is paid over the entire revenue of the rentals.

THE TURNOVER TAX RATE IS 5%: • Exempted are certain basic necessities (see article 17 of

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

the Turnover tax Ordinance).

TAX TABLE ST. MAARTEN 2017 Income more than I 0.00 31,390.00 47,086.00 65,397.00 98,093.00 138,638.00

But not more than II 31,390.00 47,086.00 65,397.00 98,093.00 138,638.00

Tax

For each amount above the III

0.00 3,923.77 7,062.75 11,869.27 22,904.40 39,122.35

income mentioned in column I IV 12,5% 20% 26,25% 33,75% 40% 47,5%

incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives THE GOVERNMENT OF ST. MAARTEN HAS CREATED A WIDE RANGE OF INCENTIVES TO incentives incentives incentives incentives ATTRACT INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS. incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives • AX HOLIDAY incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives incentives LAND DEVELOPMENT incentives incentives incentives incentives • • incentives incentives incentives incentives • • incentives incentives incentives incentives • incentives incentives incentives incentives • THE SPECIFIC CONDITIONS THAT incentives incentives incentives incentives APPLY TO EACH AREA ARE: incentives incentives incentives incentives • HOTELS AND OTHER REST & incentives incentives incentives incentives RECREATIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS incentives incentives incentives incentives • • incentives incentives incentives incentives • incentives incentives incentives incentives

INCENTIVES

T

There must be a creation of permanent employment of

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

at least 5 persons.

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

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

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;

The application for the tax exemption must be for the

exploitation of a hotel or other rest & recreational accommodation;

The company must stimulate economic activity in St. Maarten;

• 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; 64

Real estate must be developed;

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• 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; The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

sincentives incentives sincentives incentives s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince • s incentives incentives ince s • incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince s • incentives incentives ince APPLICATION PROCEDURE s • incentives incentives ince s incentives incentives ince • incentives incentives ince incentives incentives ince • incentives incentives ince incentives incentives ince • incentives incentives ince incentives incentives ince incentives incentives ince incentives incentives ince incentives incentives ince

INCENTIVES

© Viktor Hladchenko / Shutterstock.com

There must be a creation of permanent employment of at

be acquired locally or internationally.

least 5 persons, excluding board members.

A detailed business plan including description

These requirements are also cumulative.

and feasibility study of the project.

Other relevant material such as maps, drawings, or any other aid deemed relevant

The request for tax exemption should be submitted on

for illustration or clarification may be

a form, which has been approved by the Governor. This

annexed.

form can be acquired from the Directorate of Taxes on

The

the island.

interested

party

will

be

given

the opportunity to conduct an oral

The form must be filled out completely, a stamp attached,

presentation of the project to the St.

and forwarded to the Governor. Only one application per

Maarten Tax Holiday Committee.

form is allowed. Incomplete forms will be rejected.

The Committee will then forward its

The application must contain:

advice to the Council of Ministers who in

- Data on the amount of employment the project will

turn advises the Directorate of Taxes. The

generate specified by local and foreign.

Directorate of Taxes will then make the final

- Information on financing methods; whether funds will

decision and the candidate will be notified.

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

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DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS (STAT)

O

STAT’s focus is on ensuring the continuity and advancement of statistics related to the economic, demographic, social n July 5th, 2010,

and environmental status of the St. Maarten community.

the statistics responsibility was transferred

Statistical information is produced through censuses, inter-

to St. Maarten in preparation for its new

censal surveys and administrative sources. In order to carry

constitutional status which was successfully realized on

out its mandate, STAT relies heavily on the participation of

October 10, 2010. The Department of Statistics (STAT), is

households and the business community during its survey

the entity officially charged with the collection, analysis and

activities.

dissemination of statistical information for the new country St. Maarten. This task was formerly the responsibility of the

STAT continues to also forge lasting relationships with key

Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) of the former Netherlands

stakeholders in the public and private sectors in order to

Antilles.

facilitate the exchange of data and allow for more complete statistical services.

THE MAIN LEGISLATION GOVERNING THE FUNCTIONING OF THE STATISTICS AUTHORITY INCLUDE: STATISTIEKLANDSVERORDENING (AB 2013, GT NO.450) LANDSVERORDENING VOLKSTELLINGEN (AB 2013, GT NO.544)

CONTACT: Government Administration Building (3rd floor) Soualiga Road #1, Pond Island, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel.: (1-721) 542-0652 Email: info@stat.gov.sx Web: www.sintmaartengov.org | www.stat.gov.sx

LANDSBESLUIT SOCIAALECONOMISCHE STATISTIEKEN (AB 2013, GT NO. 452) The St. Maarten Department of Statistics has grown from a small staff of 2 persons to the current staff complement of 12. Critical to the development of the department and its ability to provide quality, relevant and consistent statistics is continued capacity building of its human resources and improvement of the statistical infrastructure.

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© Maridav / Shutterstock.com

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BUREAU FOR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

© Den Rise /Shutterstock.com

A

BOUT BIP SXM

We also provide an online register which enables you to

The Bureau for Intellectual Property of Sint Maarten (BIP SXM) is an Independent Governing

Body incorporated by ‘the National Ordinance of the Bureau for Intellectual Property Sint Maarten’ and falls under the political responsibility of the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications.

search for trademarks that are already registered.

As an independent and impartial administrator of the register, BIP SXM is allowed to provide information on all procedural aspects relating to registration of your trademark.

Country Sint Maarten is an autonomous equal partner in the

Prior to 10-10-10 the Bureau for Intellectual Property Netherlands Antilles was established and situated on the island of Curaçao. Given the expertise in Curacao the government of Sint Maarten decided for the Bureau for Intellectual Property Curaçao (BIP CUR) to (temporarily)

Kingdom of the Netherlands and has her own jurisdiction for intellectual property rights.

OUR OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Friday: 08.30h - 12.30h | 13.30h - 16.30h

execute the trademark registrations on behalf of Sint Maarten.

The project for the implementation of BIP SXM started in 2013. After different studies it was decided for BIP SXM to work closely together with the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP). BOIP works with an advanced online registration system which enables faster and more accurate registration.

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Contact: Professional Office Park Osprey Drive #4 Building 2, Unit 2A Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Tel: +1 721 543 3500 Web: www.bip.sx The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT

T

© patpitchaya / Shutterstock.com

he Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental 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:

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

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

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

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

SUPERVISION According to FATF Recommendation 28, the Designated

The Sint Maarten FIU receives and analyses unusual transaction reports and other information relevant to money laundering, terrorist financing and associated predicate offences 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).

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.

VISION

The two relevant ordinances are the National Ordinance

A Sint Maarten community with financial and business

and the National Ordinance Identification when Rendering

sectors that are free of financial crime.

Reporting Unusual Transactions (O.P. 2013, CT no. 479) Services (O.P. 2013, CT no. 480). One of the supervisory powers the FIU has is to instigate an investigation on-site

MISSION

to determine whether the DNFBP is compliant or non-

To protect the integrity of Sint Maarten’s financial system

compliant. In case of non-compliance, enforcement measures

and contribute to the justice system through ever improving

can be imposed on the DNFBP.

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 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

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

confirmed, the suspicious transactions are forwarded to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

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FINANCIAL SERVICES

T

HE 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.

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FINANCIAL SERVICES 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

analysis of the solvency and liquidity development of banking and credit institutions.

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.

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

This supervision is pursued mainly through the Bank’s

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FINANCIAL SERVICES 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:

© Globe Guide Media Inc / Shutterstock.com

Tel: (Collect 0210) 001-246-431-5490 | Fax 001-246-228-3996 Windwarde Side, Saba:

REPUBLIC BANK PHILIPSBURG

Tel: (599) 416-2216 | Fax: (599) 416-2475

Back Street #62, Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Oranjestad, St. Eustatius:

Tel: 1 (721) 542-2262 / 3317

Tel: (599) 318-2392 | Fax: (599) 318-2734

Transit Number: 71605

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS BANK LTD

REPUBLIC BANK SIMPSON BAY

Main Office, Clem Labega Square, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-2313 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-4761

Simpson Bay Yacht Club, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten Email: republicbank.an@rfhl.com

Bush Road Branch, Bush Road, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-7950 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-7953 Orange Grove Branch, Cole Bay, St. Maarten

BANQUE EUROPÉENNE DU CRÉDIT MUTUEL SINT MAARTEN - BECM BANK

Tel: 1 (721) 544-5490 | Fax: 1 (721) 544-5491

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

Airport Road Branch, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 546-0609

Tel: 1 (721) 545-3063 | Fax: 1 (721) 545-2130 Loan Center, Bush Road, St. Maarten

ORCO BANK

Tel: 1 (721) 542-9537 / 9536 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-9258

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

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

Tel: 1 (721) 544-4744

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

Fax: 1 (721) 544-4745

Bankcard Services:

Email: info@orcobank.com

Codville Webster Road 2, Office space 2, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1 (721) 542-3940 / 3422 | Fax: 1 (721) 542-3251

BANCO DI CARIBE

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

Airport Boulevard 15, Simpson Bay, St. Maarten

Tel: 1 (721) 545-3608 | Fax: 1 (721) 545-3589

Tel: 1 (721) 545-5002

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

Fax: 1 (721) 545-5036

Emal: info@wib-bank.net

Email: info@bancodicaribe.com

Website: www.wib-bank.net

Web: www.bancodicaribe.com

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© byvalet / Shutterstock.com

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HISTORY OF SINT MAARTEN

“THE ISLAND IS CERTAINLY A TREASURE TROVE OF HISTORY.” © Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

S

t. Maarten was one of the 5 islands that formed the Netherlands Antilles. This unique island is located approximately 280 miles east of Puerto Rico or 18.1 degrees north and 63.3 degrees west. St. Maarten is unique in that it shares the island with St. Martin, a French dependency that occupies 21 square miles on the northern part of the island.

St. Maarten/St. Martin enjoys the perfect blend of two European cultures, namely the French and the Dutch, with the beauty of a Caribbean paradise. The island of St. Maarten also boasts a captivating historical background. Christopher Columbus discovered St. Maarten 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, the island was divided in two by a Treaty of Concordia, which was signed on March the 23rd, 1648. The Dutch received 16 square miles and the French received 21. Today, the inhabitants of this friendly island are proud of their 350 year coexistence and, have never constructed an official border, only a symbolic border between the island’s two countries. There is no border control (i.e. Checkpoint) between the two parts of the island; there is free access and movement between the two. Monuments and border signs indicate the entrance from one side to the other.

There are many historical sights to see and to photograph. Indians, pirates, smugglers, slaves, soldiers, merchants and mariners have all left their mark here. Be that as it may, the island is certainly a treasure trove of history.

St. Maarten, with its capital Philipsburg, occupies the southern part of the island’s 16 square miles. Philipsburg is one of the major commercial centers of the island. In Philipsburg, one can find a concentration of jewelry stores, clothing stores, souvenir stores, restaurants and tourists attractions.

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EDUCATION SYSTEM

© Sensay /Shutterstock.com

S

t. Maarten has a varied system, with a number of schools from nursery to higher education, nursery (2 - 4 years old); kindergarten schools (4 - 6 years old); primary (5 - 12 years old); secondary schools (12 - 18 years old). At the secondary levels schools are divided in academic and vocational schools.

There is flexibility with these schools and students can transfer in based on their grades.There are tertiary vocational schools and higher professional education schools. At the tertiary education students learn various professions such as secretaries, executive assistants, nurse’s assistants, clerks, carpentry, electrical work, mechanic, welding plumbing, boating, etc.

All schools use either Dutch or English as the medium of instruction and most schools are subsidized by the government, both public and private. Private schools have a religious foundation such as the Catholic, Methodist, Seventh Day Adventist, etc.

Notwithstanding their religious background, these schools are subsidized by the government. There are also non-subsidized private schools which operate independently and are mainly based on the American system with American history. Their language of instruction is English.

The higher education on St. Maarten includes the Teacher Education program and the Business program. The University of St. Martin has collaborated/partnered with various other universities in the Netherlands and Curaçao to ensure that programs provided have an accredited partner.

It is safe to state that anyone who moves to St. Maarten will be able to find a school for their children that will meet their need, as there is a variety to choose from and of good quality.

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UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN

“YOUR KEY TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE”

T

he 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.

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UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN USM’s architecture is simple, blending into the niche on the entrance to Pond Island, Soualiga Boulevard; offering an inviting and friendly atmosphere. Its intimate and picturesque garden also offers a soothing tranquility, conducive to studying and learning.

AT USM, IT’S ALL ABOUT BENEFITS!

• 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;

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.

• 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.

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.

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

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 www.usm.sx

THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARTIN

YOUR KEY TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Application Deadlines

SPRING: November 8th

SUMMER: April 8th

FALL: July 8th

Apply Today!

Associates of Arts in Business

Associates of Arts

Bachelor of Arts

Other Programs

Other Programs

ACCOUNTING

GENERAL LIBERAL ARTS

EDUCATION

MASTERS OF EDUCATION

MANAGEMENT

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM MANAGEMENT

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

PRE-USM & GED

DUTCH NATURALIZATION

*BTECH ACCREDITED

Approved Centre from Pearson

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Visit us #1 Soualiga Boulevard, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten + (721) 542 5171 | www.usm.sx | admissions@usm.sx INVESTMENT GUIDE

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PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

H

er 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 82

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PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Project Management team with the assistance from the Royal

With a staff complement of approximately 269 employees,

Schiphol Group stands accountable for the project entitled

the airport community, however, consists of about 1,000

“Package 2 – Reconstruction of the Terminal Building.”

persons working for some 80 businesses that includes airlines and aviation service providers, VIP’s, bus services,

The ultra-modern international airport on the island of St.

cargo operators, Police team, car rental agents, immigration,

Maarten, handled an average of 1.8 million people annually

customs, wheelchair services and airline security, in addition

with approximately 170 aircraft movements a day before

to retail and food and beverage concessions. The island’s

the hurricane, making it one of the busiest in the region,

central and strategic geographic location in the region, has

served by 22 scheduled airlines and a dozen charters with

resulted in its airport becoming a primary hub, connecting St.

direct service to some 33 destinations/cities. The airport

Maarten/St. Martin and the surrounding islands, particularly

is responsible for 60% of the GDP of the island, which is

Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barth, Tortola, St. Kitts and

significant for the economic growth. The airport is owned

Nevis to the rest of the world. Its latest campaign post

by a government holding company (PJIAH) and operated by

hurricane is “Rebuild. Recover. Reinvent – Forward Together”

PJIAE N.V, each with its own Supervisory Board of Directors.

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© Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 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

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

which went through “generational changes” such as the construction of new terminals which

which is a temporary expansion of the make-shift area,

also cements its role as the major engine moving the

offering an additional 250+ seating expanse. The area is fully

island’s tourism economy forward and the economies of

air-conditioned and has an additional 3 boarding gates.

some of the neighboring islands it serves as a hub.

The airport has an airside Departure Hall with a complete Safety and security are the two main pillars of operations

duty-free retail and food & beverage concession layout.

at SXM Airport. It has an impeccable safety record and is

Returning concessions like Subway, AMA Duty Free, Dutch

constantly upgrading its staff and equipment to ensure that

Delight, Domino’s Pizza, Market by Villa, Taloula’s Flights,

those who use its facilities feel safe and secure. Equipped

Relay, ESCA, Shipwreck Shop, Gouda Liquor Store, Le

with a state-of-the-art ATC Tower and Radar facility,

Bistro by Bacchus, ILTT Duty Free, Aunt Clara’s Ice Cream

Category 9 Fire and Rescue Service, and General Security

and Johney Burgers are all available to the travelers and

and Centralized Pre-screening, safety is top priority. The

partially to the public. The new F&B concept includes food

safety record of the airport is among the best anywhere in

trucks on the land side of the property. The airport also

the region and beyond.

features the immigration and emigration booths, offices, the reinstatement of the existing air-conditioning and sprinkler

Designed to handle about 2.5 million passengers annually,

systems, the installation of the fire alarm and public-address

management are preparing for the increased passenger

systems, CCTV surveillance and IT systems.

capacity as they’ve constructed the “Package 1A” project,

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The Golden Bookof the of 2022 Sintcompletion Maarten 11 Artist impression © Corgan

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

The Baggage Claim area has one carousel with Baggage

the Government of St. Maarten, dedicated to upholding

Information Display System (BIDS) monitors. Car rental and

the principles of good corporate governance as stipulated

VIP services are also offered near the arrival area.

in the Corporate Governance code and the internal Code of Conduct policy. Its philosophy also embraces the notion

SXM Airport offers airside passenger transportation by bus,

of good corporate citizenship, not only as a part of the

Aircraft Fueling, Ramp Handling Service (push-back), and

Corporate Social Responsibility but also more importantly in

General Aviation services for the private and corporate jet

being actively involved in the social, educational, cultural and

sector. In order to accommodate the tremendous growth in

sporting development of the island. It makes its community

this aviation segment, the airport has a Fixed Base Operations

identifying the airport as its own, as well as an integral part

(FBO) building complete with office space, private lounges

of the socioeconomic development of the island.

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

Artist impression of the 2022 completion © Corgan

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 Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

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PORT ST. MAARTEN “A WORLD LEADING CRUISE DESTINATION”

© Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com

T

he 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.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN 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, 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

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

four vessels simultaneously. Pier 2, with a length of 445 meters, was opened in 2009 and can accommodate two Genesisclass vessels. It also has two booths for screening passengers

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

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PORT ST. MAARTEN as

this

cannot

be

carried out on board owing to the large number of passengers.

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.

© Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com

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

© Port St. Maarten

HISTORIC MOMENT IN CRUISE RESUMPTION

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

On Saturday, June 5, 2021, officially marked the resumption

of the port and the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. Captain

of cruise tourism after 15-months of no commercial cruise

Kate was ecstatic when it was mentioned that coincidentally

traffic to the destination. This was a momentous occasion

Celebrity Edge was the last commercial ship that visited the

for Port St. Maarten and the destination overall, as never in

destination back in March 2020.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN 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.

HOMEPORTING – NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN PORT OF CHOICE

providers; and creates the potential for pre- and post- cruise

Based on various homeporting case studies, Port St. Maarten

that translate into more spending power of passengers based

has been ranked as one of the top cruise port destinations in

on their higher disposable income levels. This also shifts the

the Caribbean where quality of facilities is concerned.

destination from quantity to quality cruise tourism therefore

extension visits.

Port St. Maarten has placed emphasis on luxury cruise brands

increasing the destination value due to attracting other highDestination St. Maarten came in top ranking for shopping

end brand lines.

experience, and port/destination services that are offered to the cruise industry. Port St. Maarten has developed a long-

Home porting is nothing new for the destination as the

term working relationship with cruise brands and at the same

country has had the opportunity to handle smaller vessels

time is the north-eastern Caribbean homeport of choice.

of under 500 passengers up to mid-sized vessels of 1000+.

The homeporting of Celebrity Cruise Lines Celebrity

Homeporting generates more airlifts in and out of the

Millennium in June 2021 was the largest homeporting vessel

destination; brings additional business for local service

to participate in operations at the country’s main seaport.

The © Port Golden St. Maarten Book of Sint Maarten 11

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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

© Port St. Maarten

Cargo Quay located at the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility. The terminal has expanded

TRANSSHIPMENT

symbiotically with its customers’ needs over the years

The main focus of Port St. Maarten continues to be on

and is now a regional sub-hub for container transhipment,

trans-shipment. St. Maarten offers numerous advantages

serving a wide range of carriers as well as the all-important

over its competitors. In addition to its central geographic

domestic market.

location, there has been considerable investment in new infrastructure, equipment, the Global Logistics System (GLS)

The cargo sector is a vital part of the nation’s economy, not

software platform, the Port Community System (PCS) and

only in terms of generating revenue, but also because most

streamlining of crane operations. All these improvements

of the food and consumer goods needed by islanders are

have helped to make St. Maarten a competitive as well as

imported by sea. For this reason, it is vitally important for the

an efficient choice for shippers. The port operates on a 24/7

whole operation to be streamlined and well managed.

basis and there is easy deep-water access to the berths.

FACILITIES

In addition, increased economic activities on the island and

The Captain David Cargo Quay is 500 meters long with a

on neighbouring islands means increased volumes of project

depth alongside of 10.5 meters, having been extended from

cargo will be shipped through St. Maarten.

270 meters under the 2007-9 expansion program.The facility is served by two Gottwald HMK mobile harbour cranes, with

SERVICES

a lifting capacity of 100 – 120 tonnes. These perform a range

Port St. Maarten became a landlord port in 2001. The aim

of duties in the port, not least of which is container handling.

was to give the port greater commercial flexibility as well

Each year the port handles thousands of teu’s and acts as a

to create and maintain a competitive edge. As a result, cargo

feeder port for many of the smaller islands nearby.

handling operations are now carried out by the port’s two stevedores. A wide range of equipment is available at the

At the southern end of the port a breakwater protects the

quay including reach stackers, top lifters, yard mules, chassis,

container yard from the worst of the storms and hurricanes

trucks as well as fork-lifts and other equipment. Island-wide

that occasionally hit the island. There are two ro-ro berths,

transportation services are readily accessible using a large

at the southern and northern ends, as well as an Inter-Island

fleet of chassis and trucks. In addition, there are many related

Pier serving the local region.

services such as container repair, and third-party logistics services.

As well as handling inter-island vessels, St. Maarten serves as a transhipment hub for the islands of Anguilla, Montserrat, St.

Cargo services have grown in parallel with the volumes

Barths, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda and the

handled as the port aims to meet all its customers’ needs.

Eastern Caribbean.

One of the first liner services chose to call at St. Maarten

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PORT ST. MAARTEN due to the port’s flexibility and the willingness to expand

a thriving long-term and stopover cruising sector.

together. This partnership is typical of the symbiotic relationship that exists between the port and many of the

The main facilities for yachts are in Simpson Bay Lagoon, in

lines that call. For some lines, St. Maarten is the first port of

the west of the island. The national frontier passes through

call from Europe and this situation means that it fulfils a vital

the lagoon, which has both Dutch and French sides. The

role as a feeder port for inbound cargo that is destined for

Dutch side includes most of the major marinas and a wide

other local islands.

range of service companies and suppliers.

The introduction of the GLS software allowed the whole port

Yachting is regarded as a major growth area and the

to be fully automated. Containers are tracked and monitored

Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) has

using mobile tracking devices, and all documentation and

plans to further market and expand this sector. The SLAC

invoicing is carried out in real-time. Containers and trucks

is a subsidiary of the Port St. Maarten Group of Companies

are scanned when entering and leaving the port to create

with responsibility for the lagoon and the John Sainsborough

a full picture of port operations at all times. Other services

Lejuez Bridge, which spans the only channel in Dutch St.

including water provision, bunkering, and waste oil can all be

Maarten between the lagoon and the sea.

booked through the online GLS portal.

There is a packed sailing program all year round organized

PRODUCTIVITY

by the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, the principal event being the

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 transhipment 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.

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 © Port St. Maarten

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PORT ST. MAARTEN © Port St. Maarten

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, which brings together yachts

Fueling services are also available to giga yachts in Great Bay.

of all sizes from across the region for a week of competitive

Port St. Maarten has worked in partnership with the fuel

racing.

supplier Sol to install a fuelling station at the Windjammer berth. The subsidiary St. Maarten Harbour Fuelling Company

Yachts up to a maximum beam of 56 ft (17 meters) and a

NV operates this facility and handles all the refuelling

maximum draft of 17.0 ft (5.0 meters) can enter the Simpson

operations.

Bay Lagoon through the John Sainsborough Lejuez Bridge.

FUEL STATION GIGA YACHTS

The fuel station, opened in 2011, was set up specifically to

Giga yachts and vessels too large to enter the lagoon can be

handle giga yachts unable to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon

catered for elsewhere, including at designated Windjammer

owing to depth restrictions. The facility has tanks for storage

berths beside at the cruise facility in Great Bay, or can berth

of fuel for delivery at the berths. Larger volumes can be

alongside the cruise pier depending on the cruise ship

delivered by road tanker.

schedule.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN PILOTAGE

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.

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

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

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

Available from port authority.

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

CRANES

TOWAGE

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

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

HANDLING EQUIPMENT

TRANSPORT

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.

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

LARGEST VESSEL

WATER

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.

Fresh water is available.

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

WORKING HOURS The port operates on a 24/7 basis.

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PORT ST. MAARTEN

© Port St. Maarten

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NV GEBE

© NV GEBE

N

V GEBE – HISTORY SYNOPSIS NV GEBE, the Government owned utility company, charged with the production and distribution of electricity and the management of the distribution of drinking water on the island, on behalf of the government, celebrated

its 60th anniversary on September 16, 2020. GEBE, short for Gemeenschappelijk Electriciteitsbedrijf Bovenwindse Eilanden, and formerly known as GESM (Gemeenschappelijk Electriciteitsbedrijf St. Maarten), changed its name in the 1960s to include the establishment of the company on the other two Dutch Windward Islands; of Saba and St. Eustatius. This constellation remained intact until January 01, 2014 when the division of shares took place on December 13, 2013 and the government of each island became the rightful owner of its local electricity company.

NV GEBE VISION In executing its vision to provide the 16 square mile community of Dutch St. Maarten “with regionally competitive, qualityefficient, sustainable and reliable services and products,” the company employs some 242 employees, and is headed temporarily

by Mr. Mauricio Dembrook. Process engineer by profession, Mr. Dembrook was appointed to the position on February 19, 2021 and considers his appointment a great opportunity.

NV GEBE PRODUCTION N.V. GEBE Production Installed Capacity is presently (in time of writing Wednesday March 3rd, 2021) 87.45 megawatts (MW) with an operational capacity of approximately 76.40 MW. The production capacity of N.V. GEBE hit its highest point of 57.24 MW on Wednesday October 19th, 2016.

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NV GEBE

© NV GEBE

The Production Plant located in Cape Bay, is predominantly

additional 11.3 MW dual fuel diesel generator set. Invitations

outfitted with Wartsila diesel engine generator sets with

for tenders had already been sent out on August 17, 2017

nameplate capacities between 8 and 11.3 MW. Our two

and a site visit completed on September 01 when just five

Caterpillar generators consisting of our smallest load of

days later Hurricane Irma struck St. Maarten, plummeting our

1.6 MW combined, are our Black Start engines. The 2016

output and any immediate plans for a new engine.The engine

purchased dual fuel diesel generator set is equipped to

is, however, scheduled to be purchased and operational in

perform on LNG and plans are again in motion to purchase an

the short-term future.

© NV GEBE

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NV GEBE

© NV GEBE

NV GEBE DISTRIBUTION

maintaining the frequency of 60 Hz throughout the network.

ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

Distribution High Voltage

12,500 V

Network Length

320 km

Our largest cables are the transmission cables which carry

Electricity Meters Installed

20,893

a transmission voltage of 12,500 volts. Post Hurricane Luis of September 05, 1995, and with St. Maarten being

The underground laying of our high voltage distribution

in the hurricane belt, all transmission cables were placed

system still needs to be finalized.The high voltage distribution

underground.These cables deliver power to four sub stations

system is 97% underground, and by the end of 2020 will be

strategically located throughout the community; Cape Bay,

totally underground. Our low voltage distribution system is

Mullet Bay, Zagersgut and Philipsburg.

80% underground, and by 2024 will be totally underground.

This project, though costly, will allow the distribution network

The four stations deliver the electricity to the 480

to recover more quickly after a hurricane wreaked damage.

transformers around the island through our distribution network, also at 12,500 volts. The transformers break

NV GEBE will in the nearest future upgrade the high voltage

down the voltage to 220 and 127 volts for residential and

transmission system to a higher voltage level, resulting in

commercial clients, and 460 volts for some industrial clients,

a capacity increase of 100%. This upgrade will extend the

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NV GEBE

© NV GEBE

operational life of our transmission system for at least 30

network that distribute the water and fill the storage tanks.

more years. Our transformer houses will also be upgraded

Our pump houses are scheduled to undergo an upgrade

to accommodate the demands of the existing and new

to best suit our existing and future demand. The estimated

customers. This upgrade has been given a time frame of 5

completion of this upgrade is 2024.

years.

The transportation of water occurs via the main water

WATER DISTRIBUTION

network, which consist of the coated ductile iron (CDI) pipes,

In 1996, NV GEBE signed an agreement with Government

with sizes from DN100 (4”) to DN400 (16”) in diameter.

to manage the distribution of potable water, produced by Air

Our secondary network supplies the water to our clients,

Fin NV.Through these years NV GEBE increased the number

consisting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) flexible pipes.

of water storage tanks to 17. Today, post Hurricane Irma, there are a total of 10 water tank in operation with 7 tanks

Water Demand

16,500 m³/day

being repaired or under construction. NV GEBE is in motion

Network Length

270 km

to regain the number of 17 water tanks in operation by the

Water Meters Installed

20,292

end of 2021. The new tanks are being built of Glass Fused to Steel bolted sheets, which offer the highest quality of water to our customers.

The major base of our customers receives NV GEBE distributed water by gravity from these storage tanks, while others receive it directly from pumps. NV GEBE has an amount of 27 pump houses throughout its water distribution

© NV GEBE

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NV GEBE COMMERCIAL NV GEBE services a total number of 41,277 customers which are divided into two groups; domestic and commercial.

Domestic Customer

35,345

Commercial customer (including 18 large consumers

5,932

Electricity Meters

20,975

Water Meters

20,302

Our Customer Care is devoted to providing the overall great experience to our customers. Our employees, both in the field and office, are called to go above and beyond the call of just mere courtesy and to carry out their duties beyond the expectation of the customer. The ever-changing times, have today invoked and sometimes, rightly so, a demanding society and therewith a need for NV GEBE to stay abreast with the market solutions for more efficient means of producing and distributing our services, and a more customer preferred method of executing these services.

An overhaul of our metering system is on the table. New electricity and water meters will be changed out over a course of 3 years, including the infrastructure to read, disconnect and reconnect these meters remotely. Another feature that will be included is the prepaid option for the electricity meters. The top-up for these meters will have several options to best suit our customers.

NV GEBE AND HURRICANE IRMA On September 06, 2017, Hurricane Irma, packing winds of more than 190 mph devastated St. Maarten and with it, NV GEBE. Water storage tanks were heavily dented; office buildings were left without roofs and walls; the production plant, though considerably damaged, was luckily spared enough to run an output of 10 MW three days later, the distribution network was left in chaos and employees were left astonished.

energy. Unfortunately, this transition is reliant on land area and solid contracts for use of roofing space of office buildings, schools, homes or any available space that can be fitted with solar panels.

The intention is also to acquire Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) to operate the Production Plant engines on. LNG is a much cleaner fuel with lower maintenance costs and is more environmentally friendly than the current fuel being used.

NV GEBE has to keep up to date with the current industry standards in terms of technology and equipment, and with the investments scheduled for the near future, NV GEBE will be doing just that.

In 2016, NV GEBE entered into an LOI with Sunshine Real Estate to develop a 2 MW solar park.The solar park is set to adorn the government owned car parks in the capital area of Philipsburg. The Managing Board has already requested Government the rights of way to install the park on the property.

WORDS FROM MANAGEMENT While our immediate future is still tied to fossil fuels, NV GEBE continues to strive towards diversifying its electricity production to Renewable Energy, more particularly, solar energy. Unfortunately, this transition is reliant on land area and solid contracts for use of roofing space of office buildings, schools, homes or any available space that can be fitted with solar panels.

The intention is also to acquire Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) to operate the Production Plant engines on. LNG is a much cleaner fuel with lower maintenance costs and is more environmentally friendly than the current fuel being used.

NV GEBE has to keep up to date with the current industry standards in terms of technology and equipment, and with the investments scheduled for the near future, NV GEBE will be doing just that.

NV GEBE AND RENEWABLE ENERGY While our immediate future is still tied to fossil fuels, NV GEBE continues to strive towards diversifying its electricity production to Renewable Energy, more particularly, solar 102

For more information about NV GEBE, visit their website at: www.nvgebe.com

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© NV GEBE

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TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN

ST. MAARTEN TELECOMMUNICATION HOLDING COMPANY N.V. (TELEM GROUP)

T

© TelEm Group

he TelEm Group of Companies is the proud local Telecommunications provider on Sint Maarten. The company is small on a global scale, but a giant when to comes to setting its telecommunication ambitions. TelEm is the only Quad Play provider on Sint Maarten, offering 4G LTE Mobile services, landline, fixed internet, and IPTV services to its residents,

businesses and visitors.

We are currently rolling out Fiber to the Home (FTTH), replacing our copper (DSL) network, ensuring a reliable, high-speed and future-proof internet connection for everyone. Neither Hurricane Irma in 2017 nor the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019/2020 have slowed our ambitions. Indeed, they have only accelerated it. Operating in a hurricane zone strengthens our resolve to put our high-speed infrastructure underground so that service recovery time after any storm is minimal. The increased demand for high-speed internet at home has also resulted in stepped up efforts to roll out FTTH even faster.

With fiber, we now offer a more reliable connection, with more upload and download speed for an affordable price, which is what our customers have demanded from us in these trying economic times.

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TELECOMMUNICATION IN ST. MAARTEN As a local Telecommunication provider,TelEm Group takes its

phones and now the new trend of smart homes with high-

Corporate Social Responsibility very seriously. Over the past

level security, consumers now require high speed internet.

years we have engaged in numerous social initiatives to help

After the Covid-19 pandemic, education moved online and

residents and businesses. Actions like these firmly establish

all experts expect that this trend will not simply disappear

TelEm Group as THE local Telecommunications Provider of

but a new educational system which will combine in person

which the residents of Sint Maarten are justly proud, and

and online classes.To facilitate this new development,TelEm is

have been able to rely on, showing their appreciation by

putting in place a robust, secure, reliable, fast network today.”

voting the company #1 Telecommunication provider for St. Maarten on consecutive occasions.

Oversight of the company is provided by the Supervisory Board of Directors, St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding

Despite the company’s driving ambition, and Fiber to the

Company N.V. (SBOD – SMTHC NV), consisting of up

Home roll out, TelEm Group is not resting on its laurels. We

to seven board members who report to the Shareholder

are continuing to improve our Mobile Network, preparing

Representative, in the person of the Prime Minister Ms.

for future developments like Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and

Silveria Jacobs and the Council of Ministers (COM).

5G, and continuously working on improving our coverage.

Our Television content is also constantly improving.With the launch of TelTV+ in 2021, TelEm now offers a great range of up to 150 HD and SD channels for residents, hotels, timeshare and other businesses.

About the Company

TelEm Group is presently headed by Chief Executive Officer, (CEO) Mr. Kendall Dupersoy, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Mr. Michiel Parent.

The CEO, Mr. Dupersoy, views telecommunications landscape as ever-changing: “Only a few short years ago, internet speeds of 100 Megabit or even 1 Gigabit going to a home was inconceivable. Nowadays, speeds of up to 2 or 3 Gigabit to a residential home is quickly becoming commonplace. The need for more speed is not so much driven by the telecommunications industry but by the

St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company N.V. ( a.k.a.TelEm Group) The Sint Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company N.V. is a governmentowned company established in 2007 with the Island Government of St. Maarten as sole shareholder with its main office located on Pond Island in the heart of the capital, Philipsburg, and branch offices at the Skyport Building in Simpson Bay and at the Port St. Maarten harbor.

consumer market. With the increased functionality of smart

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BUREAU TELECOMMUNICATIONS & POST © metamorworks / Shutterstock.com

A

BOUT US

Having such an infrastructure will not solely serve to enhance

Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten (BTP) is the independent regulatory authority for

the Telecommunications and Post industry in St. Maarten.

BTP regulates telecommunications and post industries to maintain a competitive environment in St. Maarten. We consult with industry participants and stakeholders, focusing on attaining quality and affordable services for all.

economy of scale.

of St. Maarten present the potential for St. Maarten to position and establish itself as a leading Telecommunications Hub in the region. Such an achievement would enable service offering exceeding national borders. This vision is being executed in line with the direction stipulated by the

BTP commenced its task on October 10th, 2010 as the independent regulatory authority of new country St. Maarten.

BTP strives to attain a balanced environment in which consumer interests are protected. We create and maintain the foundation to support the introduction of new technologies and services which will promote socioeconomic development and overall growth of the nation.

Government of the Island Territory of St. Maarten, formulated in its 2008 Telecommunications policy: “A competitive and NGN supportive environment which shall attract investments for further growth; Universal Access to all, establishment and promotion of E-Commerce, Health, and Education, research, training and Development in ICTs. The establishment of St. Maarten as regional telecommunications hub, serving as the connecting link between the Caribbean and the United States of America.”

VISION BTP regulates and guide the telecommunications, post and utilities infrastructures and their developments. We maintain proper grounds and standards to stimulate and facilitate the continued introduction of new technologies and services on

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overall business viability within the industry even in a small

The Geographic location of St. Maarten and the demographics

WHO ARE WE?

short and long term.

the quality of life on St. Maarten but shall also enhance the

The vast telecommunications developments over the years on St. Maarten are indicative of our potential and capabilities, to serve a much larger market than our own. This Telecommunications Policy, which is the first Telecommunications Policy for the Country St. Maarten,

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BUREAU TELECOMMUNICATIONS & POST serves as the basis for a competitive, consumer and provider friendly telecommunications environment. Enhancing the quality of life through telecommunications is the ultimate

• Issuance of approvals for test standards.

• Inspections and examination of telecommunication equipment and infra structure.

• Issuance of compliance certificates.

• Issuance of certificates and letters of authorization for

goal.

WHAT WE DO

telecommunication educational programs.

• Set guidelines to prevent and resolve network quality issues and complaints.

GENERAL:

• Issuance of warnings, fines and attachments/ liens on

• Development of policies for the telecommunication and

equipment in case of non-compliance or violation with telecommunication require and regulations.

post industry.

• Implementation and execution of task as established by the Minister of telecommunication.

• Preparation of the rules and regulation and laws for telecommunication and post for country St. Maarten.

• Execution of responsibilities and task according to the

• Revoking of licenses.

• Issuance of certification and letters of authorization for specific maritime radio communication.

• Administration, issuance of invoices and collection of payments related to the telecommunication sector; including legal collection measures.

“landsverordening” telecommunication and post.

• Where necessary on instruction of the Council of Ministers, represent and defending the interest of country St. Maarten related to telecommunication and post; national, regionally and internationally.

IN THE AREA OF POST:

• Issuance of licenses and permits according to article 13.1

• General advice to the minister and members of parliament.

• General advice and execution of responsibilities and task

• Administration, issuance of invoices and collection of

for government services and third parties related to the

payments related to the Post sector; including legal

minister and members of parliament.

collection measures.

“Postlandsverondering” 1998.

• Execution of other activities as instructed by the Minister of telecommunication.

• Execution of other activities in accordance with the “landsverordening”.

IN THE AREA OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS:

• Issuing licenses for radio frequencies and telecommunication equipment and infrastructure.

• Managing of radio frequencies.

• Issuance of numbers and managing the number plan for St. Maarten.

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Contact Us: Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten Cannegieter Street #15 - Unit 5.1, Phillipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: +1(721) 542-4699 Fax: +1(721) 542-4817 Email: info@sxmregulator.sx

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SHTA

© SHTA

T

he St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association is the largest, private sector business representative on the island, representing a large amount of hospitality and trade companies and associations.The SHTA is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development

for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. SHTA’s efforts are aimed to achieve its higher goal of better quality of life for all St. Maarten residents, based on three pillars of a sustainable economy, a healthy and beautiful island and good governance (see for full vision shta.com/vision-2025).

85% of St. Maarten’s GDP is generated by the tourism industry; the main economic pillar of our island. Its three main tourism pillars of stayover tourism, cruise and yachting keep providing new business opportunities. Many SHTA projects serve to enhance the economy.

THE FOUR MAIN ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSOCIATION ARE: • TOURISM PROMOTION focused on marketing the destination to travel trade professionals and consumers, as well as the local promotion of the importance of tourism for the island of St. Maarten.

• ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT focused on creating, delivering and communicating benefits to member companies.

• ADVOCACY AND LOBBYING to ensure the rights and interests of the business community and achievements are reflected in sound economic and development policies, social partner cooperation and private and public sector partnership.

• PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT strives for sustainable tourism development by upgrading the quality of life with training and community-focused programs as well as protecting the natural environment.Through its NGO status, the SHTA continues to seek development funds to support these projects.

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SHTA

© SHTA

These activities include Marketing & Destination Promotion,

International

Membership

and

Representation, SHTA

Trade Representation & Advocacy, Product Development

“Dollar-a-Day” Development Fund, Information Distribution

& Improvement, Education & Human Resources, Research

and Updates, Networking Events, Conference & Seminars,

& Statistics, Sustainability & Environment, Government

Member Discounts, Trade and Consumer Website Presence,

Cooperation, Local Awareness & Communication, and Policy

and the “Visit St. Maarten” in-room and digital publication.

& Strategic Planning.

Membership is not limited to businesses on the island; Membership Benefits are Business Support, Tradeshow

membership is open for all businesses that have direct

and Marketing Promotion Participation, Regional and

interest in the economy of St. Maarten.

For further information, please contact: W.J.A. Nisbeth Road 33A P.O. Box 486, Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: +1(721) 542-0108 Email: info@shta.com Web: ww.shta.com | www.visitstmaarten.com © SHTA

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SUNSET REAL ESTATE

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

T

he Sint Maarten Real Estate market is currently experiencing an explosion of buyers looking impatiently to invest and or purchase a home or business location. The covid -19 pandemic has motivated residents and investors to secure comfortable living accommodations and financial income sources.

Investors are very much on the lookout for opportunities to purchase new passive income properties to diversify their income portfolios.

Trending investment are currently between $300-500,000 US dollars and this mainly residential homes and income properties.

WHY INVEST IN REAL ESTATE » MAINTAINS VALUE Real Estate investment maintain value. Done right it is one of the safest investments one can make because property rarely goes down in value but actually appreciates currently at a 3% rate every year. Trending locations appreciates on an average 6%, double the amount.

» PASSIVE INCOME OPPORTUNITIES Investing in Real Estate can be a way to diversify your income sources or become your direct source of income. If you buy Real Estate in central locations, you can collect high rent and live of that income for the rest of your life.

» ATTAINABLE FUNDING Banks and private investors can help get you started with your personal Real Estate investment. If you have a stable job and a little savings, you can qualify for a property mortgage. Also, if you find a good deal (undervalue property) on the market you can approach an investor to finance your purchase.

» IT IS A TANGIBLE ASSET Unlike stocks Real Estate is a tangible asset. Less risky and easy to liquidate by either selling, getting a mortgage on it, or even refinancing your existing mortgage at a lower interest rate.

» DIVERSIFY YOUR INCOME Most millionaires if not all, diversify their income sources in an effort to secure income from other investments as 112

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SUNSET REAL ESTATE

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

safety in case their main income fails and to increase wealth by multiplication. In Real Estate you can invest in different kinds of properties.

• Single family Homes • Apartment buildings • Vacation rentals • Commercial properties and so on ...

3 REASONS TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE ON SINT MAARTEN

The local Sint Maarten currency is ANG Guilders. 1.79 ANG = 1.00 US dollar (US dollars are commonly used along with local currency) • Transfer tax – 4% payed by buyer • Notary fee’s – 1-2 % payed by buyer • Registration Fee Fl. 5.00 per document paid by buyer As a Real Estate specialist, I help clients find and purchase or sell Real Estate property. Real Estate Investment creates wealth and financial security. Let me help you create wealth

1 Sint Maarten is a great location to invest because there is no capital gains tax here and property value is pretty stable due to low inventory and high demand this keeps your real estate investment at high value.

2 There are no restrictions on ownership of private property by nonresidents.

3 There is no need to hire a lawyer since the notary handles all legal matters. Notaries are appointed by the Dutch government and are mandated by law to serve both parties.

Sint Maarten is a slower paced relaxed lifestyle Island, known as vacationer Paradise. Full of sun, fun and relaxation. It is a great place to live or vacation. Owning Real Estate on Sint Maarten is a secure profitable investment that not only will bring you happiness but secure financial income.

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BUYING PROPERTY FEE’S

today!

Contact your local Agent: Yamilet C. Santana Tel: 1-721-523-3251 Email: sunsetrealestatesintmaarten@gmail.com

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TOURISM PHILIPSBURG.............................................................................................................. 115 MAP OF PHILIPSBURG............................................................................................. 129 SIMPSON BAY............................................................................................................. 131 MAP OF SIMPSON BAY, COLE BAY, MAHO, MULLET BAY........................... 148 MAHO VILLAGE......................................................................................................... 150 CUPECOY ‘THE RIVIERA’........................................................................................ 151 ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU........................................................................ 152

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PHILIPSBURG

© Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

PHILIPSBURG

SHOPPING MECCA OF THE NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN

© byvalet / Shutterstock.com

SINT MAARTEN IS A DUTY FREE SHOPPER’S PARADISE

D

uty Free Shopping

The Americas now represents more than one quarter of global duty free sales of which the Caribbean alone stands

According to a study on Duty Free Shopping in the

for an impressive and important close to half the share. Very

Caribbean, the global duty free trade has developed rapidly

few regions in the world can compete with the Caribbean in

over the past 50 years, from a very modest beginning in 1947

terms of relative duty free performance with regard to the

to a multi-billion dollar industry today.

geographic size of the region.

Fifty-two years ago the duty free industry saw the light of day

The Caribbean provides some of the best shopping

for the first time when a small whiskey and tobacco store

experiences in the world, but Sint Maarten is different. One

opened at Shannon Airport, Ireland. At that time, just after

of the joys of vacationing in Sint Maarten is that it is duty

World War II, it was logical that Shannon’s advantageous and

free! Great values can be had because prices are among the

strategic position on the west coast of Ireland should be the

lowest in the Caribbean. Certainly much less than prices you

final refueling stop, before the final 2500 mile trip to New

would pay in the U.S., Europe and Canada.

York.

With no duties on jewelry, leather goods, cameras, gold, From this point onwards, airport authorities in Europe and

perfumes, cosmetics, watches, china, crystal, linen and much

elsewhere started realizing the potential of non-aviation

more from around the world, Sint Maarten is a duty free

income that could be generated by duty free shops.

shopper’s paradise. The best places to shop on the Dutch

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PHILIPSBURG [WELCOME TO THE CAPITAL OF DUTY FREE SHOPPING] side are Philipsburg’s Front Street and Old Street, Simpson

Philipsburg, the capital of Sint Maarten is built on a sand

Bay, Maho Reef, and Cupecoy.

ridge. From the sleepy village to the bustling town with over a mile of duty free stores mainly jewelry, electronics, local

New additions to duty free shopping have been added

Caribbean arts and crafts, watches, alcohol and tobacco, fine

such as the “Puerta Del Sol Plaza,” a new extension to the

cigars, camera’s, perfumes, art galleries, and much more.

Simpson Bay Yacht Club Shopping open mall area and “Porto

The town has a lot to offer the visitor. Shopping is one of

Cupecoy.” Wherever you go, you’ll find the best products the

the best reasons to take a break from the beach and water

island’s expanding duty-free sector has to offer.

sports to explore what Philipsburg has to offer.

Travelers in the know are taking a close look at the goods

There are approximately 500 duty free shops on the island.

being produced by local artisans. Caribbean crafts people

Duty-free stores are mainly located on Front Street. The

bring to their work a rich and colorful blend of African and

Front Street location offers various stores, great access to

European influences that make up their culture.

the cruise ship passengers that arrive via three cruise ship tender jetty’s, namely the Capt. Hodge Jetty centrally located

© FredP / Shutterstock.com

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PHILIPSBURG

© Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock.com

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 © El Greco 1973 / Shutterstock.com

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Cupecoy.

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PHILIPSBURG 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.

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

© S.C. Colbing / Shutterstock.com

environment.

BUS SERVICE

DINING / RESTAURANTS

You also have the option to travel via bus. In this case you will

Philipsburg would not be the capital of Sint Maarten if you

need to go to Back Street and search out a bus that is going

couldn’t find great food.Town offers a variety of international

in your direction. If you are traveling from Caravanserai/

cuisine and you won’t be disappointed.

Maho Reef/Mullet Bay/Cupecoy, then you will have to check the directional sign which is usually at the front section of a

SHOPPING HOURS

bus telling you in which direction the bus is heading in order

Stores on Front Street open at 9:00 am until 6:00 pm from

for you to reach your destination.

Monday to Saturday. Occasionally some stores would open on Sunday when there are several cruise ships in port.

Busses travel from Philipsburg to the main tourist areas namely, Cole Bay, Simpson Bay, Caravansarai, Maho and

TRANSPORTATION

Cupecoy, where one finds the majority of hotels.You can also get out at the Simpson Bay Yacht Club Shopping Center, and

TAXIS

cross the street walking in the direction of Pelican, where

Finding a taxi in Philipsburg is not a problem. Taxis are

you will find a number of hotels, timeshare properties and

available to take you wherever and whenever you need to go.

vacation villa rentals.

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PHILIPSBURG

© Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock.com

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Front Street date as far back as 1999. The first part of the

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

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

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.

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

PHILIPSBURG REJUVENATED The Government embarked on a number of projects to

overall visitor experience.

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PHILIPSBURG BEACH PROMENADE

The beautified area of the Tourist Corridor stretches

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

from the Buncamper Road, Point Blanche to the Keys in Suckergarden.

main street – Front Street, where you can find all your duty

HARBOUR POINT VILLAGE – AN ADDITION TO SHOPPING IN THE CAPITAL

free shopping experience.

In addition to Philipsburg is Harbour Point Village, which

to leisurely stroll along the waterfront enjoying the ambiance of Philipsburg. One also has easy access to restaurants and

opened in May 2003 at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo

BEAUTIFICATION OF FRONT STREET

Facilities in Point Blanche. This five acre development was designed in the traditional Caribbean flavour of architecture.

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

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.

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

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.

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. © timsimages.uk / Shutterstock.com

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PHILIPSBURG POND ISLAND Pond Island is a new development. It is surrounded by the

CENTER OF TOWN CAPT. HODGE WHARF

historical salt ponds and is linked to Philipsburg. It is also part

The Capt. Hodge’s Wharf was renovated. The pier in

of the Development Vision of the Government.

Philipsburg at the Cyrus Wathey Square is an important transportation link between cruise ships docking at the Dr.

There are existing buildings such as the University of St.

A. C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility and the island’s main

Martin, Telecommunications Earth Station, Turning Point

shopping center, Front Street.

Rehabilitation Center, the Sint Maarten Receiver’s Office, Little League Ball Park, Festival Village and the Government

It accommodates water taxis and tender vessels to off load

Office Complex.

and take on passengers simultaneously. It houses a Tourist

All government offices will be housed in this building. It will

Information Office, and a Police Sub-Station.

be more investor and customer friendly as all government departments will be centrally located at one location.

© S.C. Colbing / Shutterstock.com

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PHILIPSBURG

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

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PHILIPSBURG

© Media Publishing International

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SIMPSON BAY THE NEW STRIP OF ENTERTAINMENT

© Skycolors / Shutterstock.com

U

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.

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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.

© FredP / Shutterstock.com

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SIMPSON BAY

© Emile Cukier

© Debbie Ann Powell / Shutterstock.com

PUERTA DEL SOL PLAZA AT SIMPSON BAY

AIRPORT

In Sint Maarten you always find something new on your next

Simpson Bay Village. The airport is ideally located just a few

visit. Puerta del Sol Plaza is an addition to the Simpson Bay

minutes away from the main hotels and timeshare properties

Yacht Club. The plaza has been described as having shady

located in the areas of Beacon Hill-Caravansarai, Maho Reef,

courtyards with a collection of chic boutiques, hair salons/

Cupecoy, Simpson Bay and Pelican.

day spa, yacht brokers, real estate agents and restaurants.

Once again it is in easy walking distance to everything else.

The Princess Juliana International Airport is right next to the

SIMPSON BAY

L

ee’s Roadside Grill is back with a brand new location

Lee’s accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Cards.

across from the Atrium Resort in Pelican. If you’re planning a trip to St. Maarten then Lee’s Roadside Grill

LEE’S ROADSIDE GRILL & BAR

is where you can find some authentic Caribbean cuisine. We

Located across the Atrium Resort in Pelican

serve everything from mouth-watering grilled lobster and

Tel: +1 721 544 4233

fresh fish to BBQ ribs and chicken. All cooked on a charcoal

www.leesfish.com

grill giving the food that great flavor that keeps you coming back. Our local fishermen keep us fully supplied with the best Snappers, Mahi-Mahi, Grouper, Wahoo, Tuna and of course Lobster.

We are open Tuesdays to Sundays from 12 noon to 10:30 pm, CLOSED MONDAYS. Don’t forget “Happy Hour” 2 pm to 7 pm and 10 pm to 11 pm. © Lee’s Roadside Grill

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Nature’s Discount 048 (waiting)

SIMPSON BAY

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© MaCori / Shutterstock.com

SIMPSON BAY

© Baker’s Suites

BAKER’S SUITES ST. MAARTEN’S FINEST ALL-SUITES BOUTIQUE HOTEL

T

ucked away in a hillside in Simpson Bay is a gem of a boutique hotel; Baker’s Suites. This is St. Maarten’s first and only all-suites boutique hotel. Mr. Baker, aka Anastacio Baker is the Managing Director of this familyowned hotel. Having an education in aviation, having been on the management team at our Princess Juliana International airport, having been the “Executive Director of Chamber of Commerce” he definitely had all the skills, the know-how and more to open and run a hotel.

The creation of Baker’s Suites was a family idea, involving Baker’s father, mother and brother. The time was right as they had the option to purchase the property which they were leasing for their car rental.

Baker’s Suites originally started out with 10 units. Three more suites have recently been added and not yet open due to COVID-19. Baker has done quite well despite COVID-19.

He believes it is due to a few different things “we cater to different classes, different types of needs. Each unit has its 142

own kitchenette, king sized bed(s) (according to room) and its own private balcony (or balconies).

Another reason that Baker’s Suites continues to be doing well, considering the circumstances, is that their location is very convenient for its guests; you may not even really need a car as the hotel is surrounded by all kinds of sought-after daytime and night-time activities; beach activities, restaurants, clubs, grocery stores, shops, spas, banks, pharmacy, and lots more available in walking distance. The hotel also has its own minimarket on premises, an Indian restaurant and a car rental!

Baker says “In most of our rates breakfast is included; we have been in a great working relationship for the past 2 years with Pelican Bistro which is a short walk nearby”.

Although Baker’s Suites has only 13 rooms “we market and behave like we have 75 rooms” and these rooms are clean, neat, pleasantly decorated and have everything you need

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SIMPSON BAY Baker even mentioned a special surprise anniversary of a local couple that stayed at Baker’s Suites. Their request was last minute, but thankfully they had decor and lots of fine details ready for such events.This particular story stuck with him, he is very happy with such moments as the guests were so happy and it really made their anniversary celebration something to remember!

© Baker’s Suites

such as Wifi, full kitchenette and closet, but most of all, these rooms are cosy; they feel like home. Baker’s Suites is also a very secure hotel, including full CCTV and security guard(s).

Baker has always been known as a detailed person and you can see his personality reflected throughout the hotel.

Another reason for the hotel’s success “Our friendliness and cleanliness is on point”, we are Caribbean Hospitality Certified, and to obtain that award certain criteria has to be met.

The hotel offers its suites in 3 different themes: Hibiscus - Standard room Serene - Largest rooms and located more at the back Sunset - Large with a sunset view and each suite having 4 balconies The newest addition, the Ocean View is almost ready, and of course Baker is making sure every last detail is covered.

His family is still involved in the business “My brother Renaldo Baker is in charge of the Car rental, my father is the designer/ captain and my mom takes care of the books”, it’s no wonder that Baker’s Suites has a warm, familiar, inviting, at-home type of atmosphere.

Baker’s Suites is doing well and that’s in part due to our very own locals “St. Maarteners are our second largest client after U.S. citizens” Baker thinks this is due to a combination of factors; St. Maarteners are proud to support a local business of “one of their own”. And although Baker’s Suites is a smaller hotel, you still get that ‘different’ feeling, like you are on vacation away from SXM. It’s also very convenient that basically everything is just around the corner, within walking distance. Baker’s Suites also has competitive rates on island!

If you are looking to not just relax during your vacation, the Activities Desk is happy to accommodate you and make sure you get the ‘SXM experience’, “We encourage everything as we are proud of our island”, with a beach within eyesight there are already many activities to try out nearby.

What’s next for Baker’s Suites? They are continuously expanding in various ways “COVID-19 shifted our plans tremendously; we have to adjust. When it is calm, it is easy, when life gets rough that is when you need to adapt”.

Adapting is easy at Baker’s Suites; Delightfully New. Wonderfully Attentive. Quality Driven, and Simply Caribbean!

This is the place you’ll want to return to again and again, but don’t take our word for it, visit them online: www. bakerssuites.com. You can also call: (721)544-0095. Like them on Facebook and check them out on Instagram.

Quality service is definitely found here and special requests are absolutely taken seriously, for special occasions or events, like anniversaries, birthdays etc. Baker’s Suites is happy to help you out and make that occasion extra special; the theme of the room can be changed, décor added, nice details that show you went out of your way for your loved one(s). They love catering to surprises and life events, all you need to do is let them know ahead of time “we enjoy catering to those ‘extras’ that keep our guests happy” says Baker. © Baker’s Suites

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SIMPSON BAY

© Media Publishing International N.V.

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MAHO VILLAGE

MAHO REEF SHOPPING AND DINING PLAZA

© Skycolors / Shutterstock.com

T

he Maho Reef Shopping & Dining Plaza is part of the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino which is nestled between Beacon Hill, Mullet Bay and the Princess Juliana International Airport.

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is an all-inclusive property and considered by many as a “destination within a destination.”

The property offers two swimming pools, swim-up pool bar, four tennis courts, a lively children’s program and an array of water activities.

The resort caters to couples, families and groups and is considered the largest all-inclusive hotel on the island.

The resort offers five restaurants and five bars, a casino and nightclub to keep you entertained.

Maho Reef Shopping & Dining Plaza is designed to provide you with the ideal shopping experience.Various outlets are spread across a space which is both airy and contemporary.You can leisurely stroll around and look for whatever it is that suits your tastes and needs.

The plaza offers a variety of fine cuisine restaurants from French to Italian food, American, Japanese, and Creole.

You can also find a medical pharmacy, doctor’s office, jeweler, perfumery, clothing/resort wear, souvenir shop, hair salon, adult entertainment club, ice cream parlour, supermarket and yogurt shops.

There is also adequate parking in order to enjoy the shopping and dining experience at Maho Village. Parking can be found next to the property, the underground parking at the La Terrasse Suite Hotel, and at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort parking garage.

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CUPECOY ‘THE RIVIERA’

A

SHOPPING 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

© Multiverse / Shutterstock.com

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 SM BUREAU

EXPLORE A HISTORY OF DIVERSE CULTURES LIKE NO OTHER IN THE WORLD.

T

he 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, 152

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU plus day sails to our neighboring islands, are also readily available. The beautiful island of St. Maarten is encircled by 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.

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

NONSTOP ACTION THAT’S WORLD-CLASS

a sidewalk café on one of Marigot’s colorful avenues, dining in St. Maarten is like dining no place else. ~ Bon appétit!

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.

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

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.

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

HORSEBACK RIDING

CHARTER FISHING

The island has several stables at which persons rent horses.

Charters, available for half or full-day hire, usually include

Arrangements for guided horseback tours can also be made

tackle, bait, food, and refreshments. Your hotel will tell you

at the stables.

where the best fishing is.

BEACHES

SAILING

Vacation on St. Maarten and the sand will always be between

Internationally renowned for hosting the famed Heineken

your toes. We have so many wonderful beaches. On the

Regatta and the 12-metre Challenge, St. Maarten fascinates

Dutch side, Cupecoy beach is picture-perfect. Mullet Bay

boaters of all sorts with crystal blue waters, brisk trade

and Maho Bay offer shimmering sands and family facilities.

winds, secluded beaches, and first-rate mariners’ services. St.

Simpson Bay and Great Bay offer suntans and water sports.

Maarten also offers various yacht chartering services, from

Anywhere you travel, a beach is not far away.

day trips to neighboring islands to sunset cruises boasting the best view of the island.

WATER SPORTS The island offers excellent diving and snorkeling locations.

DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

And with so many multicolored tropical fish, you’d think

One of the joys of vacationing in St. Maarten is that it is

Picasso had been painting them. Underwater visibility runs

duty-free!

from 75–200 feet depending on conditions. Windsurfing, sailing, and jet skiing have enjoyed rapid growth over recent

You can get many bargains because prices are among the

years and instructors are usually available.

lowest in the region. Certainly much less than prices you pay

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

in the U.S. and Canada.The best places to shop on the Dutch

Canadian citizens entering St. Maarten for 14 days or less

side are Philipsburg’s Front Street and Old Street, Simpson

must bring: a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization

Bay, and Maho village. Wherever you go, you’ll find clothing,

certificate. Return travel tickets, documents for next

leather goods, jewelry, gold, watches, perfumes, cosmetics,

destination, and sufficient funds are also required.

china, and crystals from around the world.

United Kingdom citizens or British-protected persons All famous brand names are well represented. St. Maarten

entering St. Maarten for three months or less must bring a

plays hosts to a number of fascinating art galleries and studios

valid passport, return tickets, documents for next destination,

featuring the finest local, International and Caribbean works.

and sufficient funds.

CASINOS

Citizens of other countries should check with a travel agent

No vacation on this island is complete without a visit to one

or a St. Maarten Tourist Office on the appropriate documents

or more of our spectacular casinos. All are located on the

necessary to enter St. Maarten.

Dutch side and are open from noon until 3 am.

AIRLINES

CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION

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

U.S. citizens entering St. Maarten for three months or less must bring a valid passport or proof of U.S. citizenship, return

AIRPORT

travel tickets, documents for next destination, and sufficient

Princess Juliana International Airport is located on the Dutch

funds.

side near Simpson Bay.

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155

ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU

Flight Information: 1(721) 546-7777

trip to their destination. Your driver will appreciate a tip of

Information Desk: 1(721) 524-4569

10 to 15 percent. Taxi Stations are located on the Dutch Side at the Airport, at the Cyrus Wathey Square, at the Dr.

For more information call your travel professional or the St.

A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility, at Diamond Casino on

Maarten Tourist Offices.

Front Street, and also on the waterfront on the French Side.

AUTOMOBILE RENTALS

BANKING HOURS

One of the best and most convenient ways to see the island

8:30 am–3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. (Hours vary from bank

is to rent a car. For about $35 to $55 per day, most rentalcar

to bank.) ATM machines are available throughout the island.

agencies offer unlimited mileage. Pickup and delivery service is usually available. All you need to rent a car is a valid driver’s

CURRENCY

license and a major credit card or cash deposit (about $350

Dutch side: U.S. Dollars ($) or Antillian Guilders (Naf./Fls./

to $600). Also available are scooters, bikes, and Harley-

Ang.). One U.S. dollar equals approximately Naf.1.82 French

Davidson rentals.

side: U.S. Dollars ($) or Euros (€).

DRIVING LICENSE

CLIMATE

Both international and foreign licenses are accepted. Traffic

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

on St. Maarten is right hand driving.

temperature - 78°

BUSES

DRINKING WATER

Public transportation runs regularly between the island’s

Purified tap water. Local and imported bottled water also

two capitals for a moderate fee. Other buses travel hourly

widely available.

between Mullet Bay, Simpson Bay, Cole Bay, and Grand Case.

TAXIS

ELECTRICITY Dutch side: 110 volts (50 cycles).

Taxis on St. Maarten are not metered. Rates determined by

French side: 208/200 volts (60 cycles).

the government are based on carrying two passengers per 156

TOURISM

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ST. MAARTEN TOURISM BUREAU OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

surroundings and azure waters of beautiful St. Maarten.

St. Maarten: Dutch

Marriage licenses are easy to obtain and you can even be

St. Martin: French

provided with a wedding coordinator to help facilitate your

English is widely spoken on both sides of the island.

special day. For those who can’t wait to start their honeymoon, St. Maarten offers a wonderful variety of charming hotels and

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

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.

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

For more information, call your travel professional or the St. Maarten Tourist Office: Krippa Commercial Building 6 Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard Philipsburg, St. Maarten Tel: 1-721-5490200 Fax: 1-721-5422734

than having your ceremony presided over by the serene

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157

THE NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN........................................................................................ 159 MAP OF MARIGOT & GRAND CASE................................................................. 167 SABA.............................................................................................................................. 168 ST. EUSTATIUS............................................................................................................. 176 ANGUILLA................................................................................................................... 182 ST. BARTHS.................................................................................................................. 190

158

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

Drone shot of Marina Fort Louis and Marigot © Donovane Tremor

I

am 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

V

isiteurs de passage venus ici vous ressourcer, entrepreneurs guidés par l’ambition de développer votre activité, notre île si chaleureuse a su vous

to develop their business. You are more than welcome on

séduire et je m’en réjouis. Soyez assurés d’être les bienvenus

this island. It is full of promises, with magical landscapes

sur cette terre toujours riche de promesses, aux paysages

and countless opportunities. You’re in for some unique

enchanteurs et aux multiples opportunités. Vous goûterez

experiences that we are proud to be promoting, because,

à des expériences uniques que nous sommes fiers de

here, on Saint Martin, we guarantee that your dreams are

promouvoir car à Saint-Martin, c’est une certitude, vos

within reach.

rêves deviennent toujours accessibles.

A new page has turned on our island, and the challenges of

Une nouvelle page s’est tournée pour notre île, et les

the past have paved the way for a future full of hope.You’ll find

épreuves du passé ont fait place à un avenir empli

completely renovated hotels, the most recent in the whole

d’espoir. Vous y trouverez un parc hôtelier entièrement

of the Caribbean, cozy accommodations with that authentic

rénové, aujourd’hui le plus récent de toute la Caraïbe,

tropical charm, and a wide range of restaurants where you’ll

des hébergements cosy à l’authentique charme tropical,

see why we are well known as the gourmet capital. Countless

ainsi qu’une myriade de restaurants confortant notre

experiences await you if you are coming to our little slice

réputation de capitale gastronomique. Bien d’autres

of heaven, spread over 37sq. mi., for the first time. Thirty-

expériences vous attendent si vous découvrez notre

seven sandy beaches, with warm and crystal-clear waters, a

petit paradis de 88 km2 pour la première fois. Trente-

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159

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN bountiful natural environment, and a wide range of activities

sept plages de sable fin, des eaux tièdes et cristallines, une

make for an exceptional experience, whether you come here

nature généreuse et d’innombrables activités vous feront vivre

for a relaxing break, or to build a new life.

l’exceptionnel pour quelques jours de détente ou une nouvelle vie à construire.

On the French side of the island in the north, you’ll be amazed by the contrasts all around you: luxury and peace-

Au nord de l’île, la partie française mêle les contrastes pour

and-quiet in the protected enclave of Terres Basses, the

un émerveillement de chaque instant : luxe et quiétude dans

authentic capital, Marigot, the colors

l’enclave préservée des Terres Basses,

and local flavors in Grand Case, and

authenticité de notre capitale Marigot,

the easygoing pace of life in Orient

couleurs et saveurs locales à Grand-

Bay with a huge beach and friendly

Case, douceur de vivre de la Baie

atmosphere in the evenings. Nettlé

Orientale gâtée d’une immense plage

Bay, Anse Marcel, and Oyster Pond

et d’une ambiance conviviale en soirée.

are just some of the enchanting

Baie Nettlé, Anse Marcel, Oyster

places that you will hopefully soon

Pond… autant de sites tout aussi

see with your own eyes. Each place

captivants qui vous seront, je l’espère,

has its own history and identity, each

bientôt familiers. Chaque lieu a son

place will show you how unique our

histoire et son identité, chacun saura

island is, our island that we are so

vous offrir cette empreinte locale qui

fiercely proud of.

fait notre fierté.

The St-Martin Tourist Office will

L’Office de tourisme de Saint-Martin

be by your side to assist you on

poursuit sans relâche ses efforts

your adventure, to support local

pour vous accompagner dans votre

businesses, and to promote our

expérience,

superb destination all over the world.

économiques locaux et faire rayonner

soutenir

les

acteurs

Our top priority is to nurture our international reputation

dans le monde entier les charmes de notre destination. Cultiver

by showcasing the wonderful way of life on our “Friendly

une réputation internationale en incarnant pleinement l’art de

Island,” because I am convinced that a treasure can only

vivre de notre « Friendly island » reste une priorité absolue car,

really be appreciated if it is shared. And I’ll let you in on a

j’en suis persuadée, un trésor ne s’apprécie pleinement que s’il

secret: in Saint Martin, we approach life with a smile, and we

est partagé. Et je vous confie son secret : à Saint-Martin, on

are sure to get smiles in return.

sourit toujours à la vie et elle nous le rend bien.

Valérie Damaseau President of the St-Martin Tourist Office

Valérie Damaseau Présidente de l’Office de tourisme de Saint-Martin

160 Anse Marcel Beach © Donovane Tremor

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

S

aint-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

French Flag at Fort Louis © Donovane Tremor

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.

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 Sentier des froussards © Donovane Tremor

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163

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

Ilet Pinel © Donovane Tremor

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

© 1world2lovers

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

Parotte Ville © Donovane Tremor

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.

164

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11 La Playa_Restaurants_SXM © ClémentLouineau_4

FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

Baie Rouge Stairs © Donovane Tremor

© Orient Beach Hotel

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

© Hotel Karibuni

Diversity is the word by which one could describe lodging on Saint-Martin. The island offers a great variety of places that

to the taste of the clients. On the beach side or

accommodate visitors from the world around throughout

up on the hillside to discover the magnificent

the year.The choice of hotels is wide, unique in the Caribbean

views, close to the shopping centres or

and covers numerous sites, styles, sizes and moods according

facing the splendour of the Caribbean,

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

The Overseas Lovers © Hommage Hôtel et Résidences - Baie Nettlé

Restaurant le Karibuni on Pinel Island © Donovane Tremor

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!

© Captain Jo Boat Charter

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FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN

© Media Publishing International

Baie Rouge © Donovane Tremor

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

© Media Publishing International

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SABA WELCOME TO SABA

D

© Cees Timmers

ear 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 168

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SABA

© Kai Wulf

SABA: THE CARIBBEAN’S RARE + UNSPOILED JEWEL

S

aba 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.

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SABA GETTING THERE

engineers who said a road could never be built. Via an engineering correspondence course and the help of fellow

To explore Saba, you must get here.

islanders, the “Road”, as it is affectionately known, was built

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.

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.

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

© Trent Reid

of the locals’ deep sense of pride in their home and history.

EXPLORING SABA ABOVE AND BELOW THE SEA

Many of the intrepid Sabans are descent from lineages dating

Saba doesn’t have beaches; just one that appears a few

to the 1600s when English sailors shipwrecked on the jagged

months a year. It is part of the reason Saba is so pristine and

shore. Over the centuries, Saba tossed between Dutch and

unspoiled. This place doesn’t need beaches. The unsurpassed

English ownership, with the Dutch winning out. Once a haven

beauty both below and above the sea opens the door to

for marauding pirates, the island’s eclectic blend of Dutch,

endless adventures from exhilarating to romantic.

African, English, Scottish and Irish eventually settled into a quite harmony focused on seamanship and fishing. It was a

Below the sea, Saba’s explosive volcanic origins are as obvious;

rugged life as the only roads were stone trails leading up

it is one reason the island is among the world’s top dive spots.

from the sea into the remote villages accessed only by foot

Within Saba’s protected marine park, spectacular formations

and donkey. Until 1943, there was no proper road. Saban

and structures, alongside lava flows and hot springs, combined

Josephus “Lambee” Hassel dismissed the Dutch and Swiss

with pristine coral reefs and a brilliant aquatic population

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171

SABA 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

Perhaps hop in a taxi and let the driver take you on a tour

fresh and delicious, especially the famous Saba lobster, red

of the island, through the tropical forests, charming villages

snapper or locally grown produce.

and picturesque architecture.The frequent subjects of artists and photographers, Saba’s enchanting vernacular combines

To explore the island up close, hike the old stone “roads”

beautiful red zinc roofs, white clapboard or stone walls,

that evolved into stunning trails meandering up and down

pretty green shutters and Caribbean gingerbread trim with

the volcanic peaks and valleys. From easy to challenging, the

little porches and colorful gardens edged in native stone.

trails provide the best means to fully connect with Saba’s

Some of the best examples of Saba vernacular are found

natural beauty and experience the breathtaking views. Or

in and around the charming village of Windward Side with

simply sit on a terrace, cold beverage in hand, and let your

its historic cottages and buildings. The island’s cottages

eyes wander to the stunning views that emanate from every

were most often homes of sea captains; built to survive

angle. The ever evolving scene flows endlessly to the horizon

the elements yet compliment the island’s natural beauty.

from sunrise to sunset.

An excellent example is the H.L. Johnson Museum, housed in a cottage built in 1840. Within this lovely and beautifully © Eveline de Vree

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 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

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SABA

© Eveline de Vree

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.

© Trent Reid

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11 © Ingrid Zagers

173

SABA CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2022 JANUARY January 1st

New Year’s Day (Public Holiday)

APRIL April 15th

Good Friday (Public Holiday)

April 17

Easter Sunday (Public Holiday)

April 18

Easter Monday (Public Holiday)

April 27

King’s Day (Public Holiday)

th th th

MAY May 1st

Labor Day (Public Holiday)

JULY (Date T. B. D.) Last week of July the 47th anniversary of Saba Summer Festival (Carnival)

SEPTEMBER September 27th

World Tourism Day © Ingrid Zagers

OCTOBER

For more information about Saba,The Unspoiled Queen, please contact the tourism office below.

Sea & Learn Month

DECEMBER December 2nd – 4th

Saba Day weekend

(Public Holiday December 2nd)

December 3rd

Wahoo Tournament

December 25th

Christmas Day (Public Holiday)

December 26

Boxing Day (Public Holiday)

th

174

Saba Tourism Bureau P.O. Box 527, E.A. Johnson Road,Windwardside, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands Tel.: 599-416-2231 / 2322 Email: tourism@sabagov.nl Website: www.sabatourism.com

THE NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS

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ST. EUSTATIUS

© Cees Timmers

FIVE REASONS TO “DATE” STATIA

S

By Jesse Serwer

t. 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.

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ST. EUSTATIUS

© Cees Timmers

© Cees Timmers

THE NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS

177

ST. EUSTATIUS

© Cees Timmers

178

THE NEIGHBOURING ISLANDS

ST. EUSTATIUS 1. DIVING St. Eustatius is home to some of the Caribbean’s best diving.

Unlike many of the region’s other underwater hotspots, 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 aptlynamed 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.

© Cees Timmers

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

© Cees Timmers

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ST. EUSTATIUS

© Cees Timmers

and chirps from the more than 30 bird species that make

experience, upon your next visit join the Statia Tourism

their home on St. Eustatius.

office at the Taste Of The Cultures (TOTC).

TASTE

4. EXPERIENCE - THE PEOPLE...

St. Eustatius is a melting pot. Historically, it has been home

Statians as they are refered to are very cultured, very

mostly to residents of Dutch and African descent, but

hospitable and very proud people. The past is everywhere

recent years have brought an influx of arrivals from around

on St. Eustatius. Statia has more historical monuments per

the world, with their own cuisines and traditions. On the

square mile than any other Caribbean island: 119 in total.

last Thursday of every month, the stalls outside Mike Van

Oranjestad, the capital, might seem sleepy today, but it was

Putten Youth Centre play host to Taste of the Islands, an

once the Caribbean’s busiest trading port. To walk along the

international smorgasbord which highlights the diversity of

wave-battered ruins of the 18th-century brick warehouses in

Statia’s populace. With all meals going for only US$5, the

Oranjestad’s Lower Town is to travel back in time to the days

price — and the experience — can’t be beat. It’s a great

when the island hummed with commerce, and lived up to its

place to talk up residents and get in step

nickname of “The Golden Rock.” Up the hill in Oranjestad’s

with local issues and concerns.

downtown (“Upper Town”) you’ll find the remnants of

For a more indulging

Honen Dalim, the second-oldest Jewish synagogue in the

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ST. EUSTATIUS New World. Steps away are the newly-restored Fort Oranje,

supplies on Statia during the American Revolution, owing to

with its stunning overlook of the Caribbean. It was here that,

the port’s neutral status, seeding a relationship which lasts to

in November 1776, Governor Johannes de Graaff offered the

this day.Among the ramparts and canons at Fort Oranje hangs

first international recognition of the newly-chartered United

a brass plaque which U.S. president Franklin D. Roosevelt

States, in the form of an 11-gun salute to the USS Andrew

presented to St. Eustatius in 1939 in commemoration of its

Doria. The colonies were able to purchase ammunition and

pivotal role in aiding independence.

“SET YOUR

DATE AND COME VISIT US”

© Cees Timmers

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ANGUILLA

Shoal Bay East Beach © ATB

ABOUT ANGUILLA

T

ucked 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. Anguilla is truly Beyond Extraordinary!

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 two major gateways: Puerto Rico and St. Martin, and by private air, it’s a hop and a skip away.

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ANGUILLA

EXPLORING ANGUILLA

swimming and

fishing

tournaments, lots the

of

music

national

and pastime,

Boatracing.

BLOWING POINT The Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is the point of entry for most visitors to Anguilla, who arrive via the public or private ferries from St. Martin/Sint Maarten.

Wallblake House © ATB

The area is also home to some of the island’s finest villa estates, at Little Harbour and Lockrum.

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 only surviving plantation house, the beautifully restored Wallblake House, built in 1785, a glimpse into Anguilla’s colonial heritage.

Under the Anguilla Arch on the West End © ATB

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 Julian’s at Quintessence.

Liquid Glow Kayaks at Island Harbour © ATB

ISLAND HARBOUR This quaint fishing village sits on the East 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

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.

weekend, a celebration of all things from the sea that includes a seafood festival, culinary competitions, The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11

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ANGUILLA

Shoal Bay Beach © ATB

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Scrub Island - Island Cay © ATB

ANGUILLA

ANGUILLA 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.

Shipwreck at Sandy Ground © ATB

OUR OFF-SHORE CAYS “Anguilla by Sea” tours take you to one or more of these

Prickly Pear also offers a great selection of cocktails and

islands for a day of swimming, snorkeling and fantastic food.

seafood, bird watching, snorkeling, and stunning vistas of turquoise seas.

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

Prickly Pear - Island Cay © ATB

Scrub Island Cave - Island Cay © ATB

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

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Sandy Island © ATB

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ANGUILLA

© ATB

ANGUILLA WHAT TO DO IN ANGUILLA Anguilla’s pristine beaches and azure seas make it ideal for myriad water sports, ranging from snorkeling, kitesurfing, 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 AT V 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.

Our literary festival in May brings together writers, poets, and musicians from Anguilla, the Caribbean and around the globe for three exciting days of inspiring presentations and informative workshops.

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 Boatracing by day, pageantry, music and street dancing that started over forty 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

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All photos © ATB

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ST. BARTHS

WELCOME TO ST. BARTHS

© Sean Pavone /Shutterstock.com

S

t. Barths is one of several French islands in the Caribbean officially known as the Territorial Collectivity of Saint Barthelemy. The island is 9.7 square miles with a population of approximately 10,000. The capital is Gustavia.

Located in the North eastern Caribbean, the destination is a beehive of activity from the high-end luxury tourists who would like to get away from the daily hustle and bustle in Europe or North America.

The island has much to offer the visitor, with more than 20 beaches throughout the island. If you like watersports, the destination offers that along with diving, fishing, and boating. It has many Creole and French dining options. To learn more about the island, you can visit a number of historical sites such as Fort Gustav and the Wall House Museum.

There are no large chain resorts, more boutique type hotels and villas.

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ST. BARTHS The Euro is the official currency, but US Dollars are widely accepted. French is the official language, but English is understood throughout the island.

The island can be reached very easily by ferry from Sint Maarten or St. Martin or by plane. Travelers are expected to have their travel documents in order for French Immigration and Border Control officers to review upon arrival which would be a valid passport and visa depending on your country of origin.

© Leonard Zhukovsky /Shutterstock.com

For more information about St. Barth, please contact:

© bcampbell65 /Shutterstock.com

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11 © Naeblys /Shutterstock.com

Quai du Général de Gaulle, Gustavia, B.P. 591 - 97133 Saint-Barthélémy Tél: 0590 27 87 27 Fax: 0590 27 74 47 Website: www.saintbarth-tourisme.com E-mail: info@saintbarth-tourisme.com

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ADVERTISER’S INDEX © Steve Heap / Shutterstock.com

AEGIS SECURITY SERVICES.............................. 123

GINGERBREAD CAFE...........................................62

SABA ISLAND PROPERTIES.............................. 169

AZURE HOTEL & ART STUDIO, THE............. 138

GUAVABERRY............................................................ 7

SALE & PEPE MARINA RESTAURANT........... 138

BAKER’S SUITES BOUTIQUE HOTEL.. 142, 143

HEAVENLY COOL..................................................36

SATEL....................................................................... 175

BDO ST. MAARTEN.........................................56-58

ICC CARGO............................................. 89, 93, 95

SC MARITIME SERVICES.......................................93

BEIRUT LEBANESE CUISINE............................ 134

ICWI1................................................................ 45

SHTA.............................................................. 110, 111

BELAIR BEACH HOTEL................................. 62, 63

IGY YACHT CLUB ISLE DE SOL...................... 147

SMD ARCHITECTS & CONSULTANTS......... 178

BETHSAIDA BOUTIQUE HOTEL.................... 133

INTERMAR................................................................93

STARLITE CAR RENTAL.......................................62

BROWN’S CAR RENTAL................................... 177

INTERNATIONAL LIQUOR & TOBACCO TRADING (ILTT)...........................41

STATIA PERSONAL HOME MAINTENANCE.................................................. 177

ISLAND CAR RENTALS..................................... 185

STEFLOGIX..............................................................39

JOSHUA ROSE GUEST HOUSE & SUPERMARKET...................................................42

ST. MAARTEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY............................................................39

KARAKTER BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT.. 130

ST. MAARTEN CONCRETE..................................67

LEE’S ROADSIDE GRILL & BAR....................... 137

ST. MAARTEN PORT SERVICES................... 43, 97

LEISURE CAR RENTAL....................................... 136

ST. MAARTEN REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION..............................................69

BZSE ATTORNEYS AT LAW.................................61 CARIBBEAN ACCIDENT & ROAD SERVICES (CARS)................................................. 148 CARIBBEAN BREWING COMPANY........ 18, 19 CARIBBEAN FEISTY FLAVORS........................ 115 CARIBBEAN INT’L. ACADEMY...........................37 CARIBBEAN TAILOR SHOP.................................35 CARL & SON’S........................................................35 CENTRAL BANK OF CURACAO & SINT MAARTEN..................................................73

LICCOM..........................................................21, 178 LIONEL AUTO REPAIRS........................................42 LIVVITT......................................................................49

ST. MAARTEN SHIPPING & STEVEDORING...93 ST. MAARTEN VETERINARY CLINIC.................43 SUNNY LAND ACTIVITIES..................................62

CENTRAL MIX CONCRETE...............................59

LYN’S DREAM BAKERY & DELI....................... 124

COOLTECH.............................................................11

MARIO BISTROT.................................................. 151

DRIFT WOOD BOAT BAR................................ 138

MILANO DIAMOND GALLERY.. IFC, IBC*

SUPER MARIO AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION......................................BC*

DRUGGIST PHARMACY, THE.............................34

NATURAL HEALTH STORE.................................43

TELEM GROUP........................................... 104-107

DUTCH ST. MAARTEN TAXI ASSOCIATION.15

NATURE’S DISCOUNT...................................... 139

TERMINIX.............................................................. 149

ELLE-SI-BELLE TOURS & SERVICES....................35

NOWHERE SPECIAL RUM BAR & LOUNGE............................................................ 141

THE MINI MART.....................................................62

ENTERPRISE ELEVATOR SERVICES....................35 EXPERT ACCOUNTING & CONSULTANT....36 FAST SERVICES SXM................................................ 3 FOURTEEN AT MULETT BAY........................... 4, 5 FRANCIS ECK....................................................... 161 FREDDY FERNANDEZ....................................... 128 FROLIC.................................................................... 132 GEBE................................................................. 98-102 GEODESIGN......................................................... 135 GESNER GENERAL PAINT...................................38 GIBSON & ASSOCIATES, LAW OFFICES..........55

192

OPTIQUE CARAIBES.......................................... 162

SUNSET REAL ESTATE............................. 112, 113

THE PRO INSTALLER N.V.....................................85

PERENNIAL CORPORATION.............................51

TONY’S AIRCONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION SERVICES.............................40

PEST MASTERS........................................................43

TRICO SUPPLIES.................................................. 177

PHILIPSBURG AUTO & ACCESSORIES...39, 117

TRU CONSULTING SERVICES............................40

POLLOS HERMANOS...........................................39

UNCLE BOB’S PLACE......................................... 119

PORT ST. MAARTEN............. FC*, 88-92, 94-97

VIAMAR LOGISTIC................................................97

PREMIER ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES.................... 146

WINDWARD ELECTRICAL COMPANY....... 144

PRINCESS JULIANA INT’L. AIRPORT.........82-87

WINDWARD ROADS...........................................59

RICHARDSON’S CAR RENTAL AGENCY.... 187

WONDER HANDS TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE........................................... 120

ROYAL RIDE.............................................................50

*FC = Front Cover | *IFC = Inside Front Cover | *IBC = Inside Back Cover | *BC = Back Cover

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten 11