Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin?

  • Terres Basses is the oldest settlement in St. Martin.
  • The island has an area of 6.6 square miles.
  • The area is home to some of the most luxurious resorts and villas on the island.
  • It is known for its stunning beaches, including Baie Rouge, Plum Bay, and La Samanna.
  • Terres Basses is also a popular spot for watersports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and kiteboarding.

Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
84° F
° F
February
84° F
° F
March
85° F
° F
April
76° F
° F
May
87° F
° F
June
89° F
° F
July
89° F
° F
August
89° F
° F
September
89° F
° F
October
89° F
° F
November
86° F
° F
December
85° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.35 inches
February
1.25 inches
March
0.88 inches
April
1.76 inches
May
1.77 inches
June
1.68 inches
July
1.93 inches
August
2.39 inches
September
2.49 inches
October
2.91 inches
November
3.78 inches
December
1.78 inches
Le Cottage

Voted top restaurant by Caribbean Journal 2023

Le Cottage boasts island style French food and a stellar wine list. Chef David Hanquer has worked in several Parisian restaurants (including the one-Michelin-starred Nikko Hotel), and is inspired by the island’s bountiful ingredients and his classical training. From mahi-mahi in mango sauce to lobster bisque, foie gras and duck tataki or a fresh, goat cheese salad medley, the menu is sure to please every palate.

Le Pressoir

Voted # 1 restaurant on St. Martin

A global culinary destination tucked inside an old Creole cottage in the quaint Grand Case area of St. Martin. The best ceasar salad on the island not to mention many other delicious items such as Lobster, Creme Brulee and grilled Shellfish.

Carnival

Party in the Streets of Marigot at Carnival

Carnival is celebrated in St. Martin's capital city of Marigot two weeks prior to Lent. Similar to other Carnival celebrations around the world, Saint Martin's features exotic costumes, colorful street parades, festive music, and lots of food. This is an ideal time to sample Caribbean cuisine and experience St. Martin's unique culture.

Transportation on Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin

Getting to Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Martin is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for most visitors, but travelers may need to complete an entry form or health declaration depending on current regulations.

Departure Tax

There is no departure tax on St. Martin.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required on the French side, obtainable at the local police station.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads and clear signage.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-40 mph (40-64 km/h) in urban areas and higher speeds on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations, pedestrians, and driving customs. Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in busy areas.

Know Before You Go...® - Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin Travel Tips

Before making their way to Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin even more relaxing.

Capital: 2019Marigot
Population: 2019Unknown
Size: 1 wordSmall.
Electric Current: 110/220
Official Language: Official language spoken in Terres Basses (French side) is French, as it is a French territory. However, many locals also speak English as a secondary language due to the influence of tourism and the proximity to English-speaking countries such as St. Maa
Currency: Terres Basses, also known as the Lowlands, is a stunning and exclusive area located on the French side of the Caribbean island of St. Martin. This luxurious destination offers a variety of currency and payment options for visitors, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience for travelers. The official currency in Terres Basses is the Euro, as it is part of the French overseas territory. This means that all prices, including accommodation, restaurants, and activities, are displayed and charged in Euros. It is recommended to exchange your currency to Euros before arriving in Terres Basses, as there are limited options for currency exchange on the island. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Terres Basses, especially in tourist areas. Some establishments, such as hotels and larger restaurants, may also accept major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. It is always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand to confirm their preferre
Tipping and Taxes: Terres Basses, located on the French side of the Caribbean island of St. Martin, follows a similar tipping and tax system to that of mainland France. Here is a summary of the tipping and tax practices in Terres Basses: 1. Tipping Culture: Tipping is not expected in Terres Basses, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated. 2. Service Charge: Most restaurants in Terres Basses include a service charge of 15% in the bill, which goes towards the staff's salaries. It is not mandatory to leave an additional tip, but it is always appreciated. 3. Taxes: The standard sales tax rate in Terres Basses is 8.5%, which is included in the price of goods and services. This tax is known as the Value Added Tax (VAT) or Taxe sur la valeur ajoutée (TVA) in French. 4. Hotel Tax: Visitors staying at a hotel or rental property in Terres Basses are required to pay a local tourism tax of 4%. This tax is added
Dress Code: The dress code in Terres Basses (French side) is typically casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfortable and stylish attire suitable for a tropical climate.
Topography: Terres Basses on the French side is a low-lying area with rolling hills, lush vegetation, and stunning beaches.
Telephone: +590 Terres Basses

Terres Basses (French side), St. Martin Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. Martin, the process of getting married is straightforward. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. Martin (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately €100 (French side). Additional fees for the officiant can range from €200 to €500 (approximately US$220 to US$550), depending on location and type of ceremony. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2-3 business days before the intended wedding date.