Travel to Sint Maarten to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Sint Maarten?

  • Two countries on one island, it is possible on St. Maarten. Move freely between the two parts and enjoy beautiful beaches, nature and, if you like it, many expensive resorts. 
  • Free movement exists between the two halves. So you can easily explore the island on your own and experience the differences between north and south firsthand. The official language on the island is English, although French and Dutch are also common. The Dutch part has been a separate country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands since 2010. Previously, it was part of the Netherlands Antilles. The national holiday is November 11, after the saint whose name the island bears. It is not an island with many attractions, but its location, language, weather, beach and the dead Flagstaff volcano (on the French part) provide enough reasons to spend a nice beach vacation on St. Maarten.

Studying in Sint Maarten?

  • There are two institutions to choose from, with several study options including the best Caribbean medical school. 

Internship in Sint Maarten?

  • You can intern in the medical field, at the airport or in conservation, for example. 

Volunteer in Sint Maarten?

  • There are several options for volunteering. For example, you can volunteer with animals, youth, nature conservation/research and education. 

Working in Sint Maarten?

  • You can find jobs here and there on St. Maarten, especially in Philipsburg and especially as a Dutch teacher! 

Working as a digital nomad in Sint Maarten?

  • Quite expensive, and depending on where you are not always good internet. Wonderful place if you can afford it though!

Living in Sint Maarten?

  • A small and friendly community (hard to remain anonymous) on a beautiful island.
  • Besides work, you can enjoy beautiful beaches, water sports and nature every day.
  • Do be aware of the pros and cons of island life: mosquitoes all year round though, and quite heavy traffic. 
Sint Maarten Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Sint Maarten Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Sint Maarten on WorldSupporter

Sint Maarten: Updates & Travel

Sint Maarten: Updates & Travel

Travel in Sint Maarten?

  • St. Maarten is an island in the Caribbean divided into two parts, with a French part in the north and a Dutch part in the south. Free movement exists between the two halves. So you can easily explore the island on your own and experience the differences between north and south firsthand. The official language on the island is English, although French and Dutch are also common. The Dutch part has been a separate country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands since 2010. Previously, it was part of the Netherlands Antilles. The national holiday is Nov. 11, after the saint whose name the island bears. It is not an island with many attractions, but its location, language, weather, beach and the dead Flagstaff volcano (on the French part) provide enough reasons to spend a nice beach vacation on St. Maarten.

Updates Sint Maarten

  • More about Sint Maarten, updates and contributions, see the link below.
How does healthcare work in Sint Maarten, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Sint Maarten, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Sint Maarten?

What is the quality of healthcare in Sint Maarten?

  • Sint Maarten is an island divided between two countries: the Dutch part of Sint Maarten and the French part of Saint-Martin. Both parts of the island have good health care with high medical standards, but fall under a different health care system.
  • There are two hospitals on the island, one in each part. There are also private clinics.
  • Many of the facilities on the Dutch part of the island are public and often larger than those on the French part. On the French part you will find more private facilities.
  • Sint Maarten also has a foundation for mental health care, the Sint Maarten Mental Health Foundation. This is located on the Dutch part of the island. Both admission and day visits are possible here.
  • Although the care is of good quality, not all care can be provided. In the event of major medical accidents, an evacuation to, for example, Curaçao or the US is probably necessary. So make sure you are well insured!
  • Call 912 for medical assistance.

How does the public healthcare system work in Sint Maarten?

  • The quality of public health care is excellent. You can expect medical care of the highest standard.
  • The public hospital in the Dutch part is the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC). This hospital is the largest healthcare facility on the island and serves people from Sint Maarten as well as people from other islands such as Saba and Sint Eustatius.
  • In the SMMC you can get all the modern care that you can expect in other developed countries. The hospital has 30 medical specialists and more than 70 hospital beds available.
  • In Saint Martin, the French part of the island you have the Louis Constant Fleming Medical Center with at least 80 beds and good, specialized care.
  • In the Dutch part you can qualify for the ZorgVerzekering (ZV) the Sociale Ziektekostenverzekeringsfonds (SZV) as a resident or employee if you meet certain conditions. This makes healthcare more affordable because part of the care is compensated in case of illness.
  • Residents of the French part have access to the French social security system Caisse Générale de Sécurité Sociale (CGSS).
  • Public care in the French part is better subsidized and cheaper for residents than in the Dutch part.

How does the private healthcare system work in Sint Maarten?

  • In Sint Maarten, private clinics offer faster and often better care, but at higher prices. For specialist treatment, patients often have to travel to other islands.
  • French standards for private care apply in Saint Martin, and healthcare costs can be partly covered by French social security for registered residents.
  • Without French or Dutch health insurance, healthcare is very expensive. Good international health insurance is therefore important to cover the high costs.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Sint Maarten?

  • There are medical clinics on both parts of the island that offer GP care.
  • In general, you have to make an appointment in advance, but some practices also work on a walk-in basis. Check in advance whether your GP is contracted with the SZV.

How is the dentist arranged in Sint Maarten?

  • Dentists can also be found on both parts of the island, in Saint Martin and in Sint Maarten.
  • Dental care is of very good quality and is mainly provided by private clinics.
  • Ask locals or other foreigners for advice to find out which dental practice is best for you!

How is pregnancy care arranged in Sint Maarten?

  • On Sint Maarten, pregnancy care is offered in SMMC and private clinics.
  • Through the SZV, women are entitled to 16 weeks of maternity leave, with 80% of their salary paid.
  • Women with complex pregnancies can be referred to Curaçao, Colombia or the US.
  • Standard pregnancy care can also be found in the French part, often free or cheap for residents with French health insurance.
  • Deliveries take place in the Centre Hospitalier Louis-Constant Fleming. Abortion is legal and is performed at the SMMC and through some general practitioners.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Sint Maarten?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Sint Maarten?

  • Sint Maarten and Saint Martin are reasonably safe, especially compared to some other Caribbean islands.
  • Petty crime does occur, especially in tourist areas such as Philipsburg and Marigot, and on busy beaches.
  • Break-ins also occur, for example in hotels and cars. So it is better to store your valuables well and not leave them in the car!
  • Crime that involves violence is rare.
  • Another danger is natural disasters. Sint Maarten is located in the hurricane belt. Strong hurricanes can therefore occur during the hurricane season from June to November. Make sure you are well prepared for these types of situations!

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Sint Maarten?

  • Mosquito-borne diseases occur in the Caribbean. You can get dengue, chikungunya and zika, which will not make you happy. So protect yourself well against mosquitoes, especially in the rainy season!
  • In general, tap water is safe to drink and food hygiene is good.
  • Beware of sunstroke and dehydration, because it is quite warm and the humidity can cause you to lose a lot of fluids without noticing.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Sint Maarten?

  • Sint Maarten is known for its extremely slow and blocked traffic. The island is full of cars and has narrow roads, which means that traffic often comes to a standstill.
  • What also doesn't help is that bridges have to be opened regularly for the large yachts that have to enter the harbors. As a result, cars often stand still for a long time.
  • The roads are also not very good. The French part had better roads than the Dutch part for a long time, but even in the French part there are more and more holes in the road.
  • In the Dutch part, the speed limit is 50 km/h on some roads, in the French part you are even allowed to tear over the holes in the road at 70 km/h. If you are going to live on the island alone as an expat, a scooter is your best option. This saves a lot of hassle with parking and you are faster in traffic!
  • Public transport mainly consists of minibuses. These are also called Martin buses. Figuring our their routes may be a bit difficult to figure out at first, but if you live there for a while, this is the cheapest way to get around the island.
  • Marigot Bus Terminal is the starting point for many of these buses.
  • Water taxis are also an option. These are sometimes faster, but more expensive.
  • Taxis are available, but an expensive form of transport if you need them often.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Sint Maarten?

  • Is the trip to Sint Maarten and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Sint Maarten if you are going to live there for a while?

  • If you live in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, you may already be required to have public insurance, but this insurance does not cover all healthcare. It is recommended to have your own international insurance to avoid high costs, especially in the event that medical evacuation or repatriation is necessary.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Sint Maarten: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle
Sint Maarten: Updates & Travel

Sint Maarten: Updates & Travel

Travel in Sint Maarten?

  • St. Maarten is an island in the Caribbean divided into two parts, with a French part in the north and a Dutch part in the south. Free movement exists between the two halves. So you can easily explore the island on your own and experience the differences between north and south firsthand. The official language on the island is English, although French and Dutch are also common. The Dutch part has been a separate country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands since 2010. Previously, it was part of the Netherlands Antilles. The national holiday is Nov. 11, after the saint whose name the island bears. It is not an island with many attractions, but its location, language, weather, beach and the dead Flagstaff volcano (on the French part) provide enough reasons to spend a nice beach vacation on St. Maarten.

Updates Sint Maarten

  • More about Sint Maarten, updates and contributions, see the link below.

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

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Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

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Safety and insurances in Sint Maarten

How does healthcare work in Sint Maarten, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Sint Maarten, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Sint Maarten?

What is the quality of healthcare in Sint Maarten?

  • Sint Maarten is an island divided between two countries: the Dutch part of Sint Maarten and the French part of Saint-Martin. Both parts of the island have good health care with high medical standards, but fall under a different health care system.
  • There are two hospitals on the island, one in each part. There are also private clinics.
  • Many of the facilities on the Dutch part of the island are public and often larger than those on the French part. On the French part you will find more private facilities.
  • Sint Maarten also has a foundation for mental health care, the Sint Maarten Mental Health Foundation. This is located on the Dutch part of the island. Both admission and day visits are possible here.
  • Although the care is of good quality, not all care can be provided. In the event of major medical accidents, an evacuation to, for example, Curaçao or the US is probably necessary. So make sure you are well insured!
  • Call 912 for medical assistance.

How does the public healthcare system work in Sint Maarten?

  • The quality of public health care is excellent. You can expect medical care of the highest standard.
  • The public hospital in the Dutch part is the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC). This hospital is the largest healthcare facility on the island and serves people from Sint Maarten as well as people from other islands such as Saba and Sint Eustatius.
  • In the SMMC you can get all the modern care that you can expect in other developed countries. The hospital has 30 medical specialists and more than 70 hospital beds available.
  • In Saint Martin, the French part of the island you have the Louis Constant Fleming Medical Center with at least 80 beds and good, specialized care.
  • In the Dutch part you can qualify for the ZorgVerzekering (ZV) the Sociale Ziektekostenverzekeringsfonds (SZV) as a resident or employee if you meet certain conditions. This makes healthcare more affordable because part of the care is compensated in case of illness.
  • Residents of the French part have access to the French social security system Caisse Générale de Sécurité Sociale (CGSS).
  • Public care in the French part is better subsidized and cheaper for residents than in the Dutch part.

How does the private healthcare system work in Sint Maarten?

  • In Sint Maarten, private clinics offer faster and often better care, but at higher prices. For specialist treatment, patients often have to travel to other islands.
  • French standards for private care apply in Saint Martin, and healthcare costs can be partly covered by French social security for registered residents.
  • Without French or Dutch health insurance, healthcare is very expensive. Good international health insurance is therefore important to cover the high costs.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Sint Maarten?

  • There are medical clinics on both parts of the island that offer GP care.
  • In general, you have to make an appointment in advance, but some practices also work on a walk-in basis. Check in advance whether your GP is contracted with the SZV.

How is the dentist arranged in Sint Maarten?

  • Dentists can also be found on both parts of the island, in Saint Martin and in Sint Maarten.
  • Dental care is of very good quality and is mainly provided by private clinics.
  • Ask locals or other foreigners for advice to find out which dental practice is best for you!

How is pregnancy care arranged in Sint Maarten?

  • On Sint Maarten, pregnancy care is offered in SMMC and private clinics.
  • Through the SZV, women are entitled to 16 weeks of maternity leave, with 80% of their salary paid.
  • Women with complex pregnancies can be referred to Curaçao, Colombia or the US.
  • Standard pregnancy care can also be found in the French part, often free or cheap for residents with French health insurance.
  • Deliveries take place in the Centre Hospitalier Louis-Constant Fleming. Abortion is legal and is performed at the SMMC and through some general practitioners.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Sint Maarten?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Sint Maarten?

  • Sint Maarten and Saint Martin are reasonably safe, especially compared to some other Caribbean islands.
  • Petty crime does occur, especially in tourist areas such as Philipsburg and Marigot, and on busy beaches.
  • Break-ins also occur, for example in hotels and cars. So it is better to store your valuables well and not leave them in the car!
  • Crime that involves violence is rare.
  • Another danger is natural disasters. Sint Maarten is located in the hurricane belt. Strong hurricanes can therefore occur during the hurricane season from June to November. Make sure you are well prepared for these types of situations!

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Sint Maarten?

  • Mosquito-borne diseases occur in the Caribbean. You can get dengue, chikungunya and zika, which will not make you happy. So protect yourself well against mosquitoes, especially in the rainy season!
  • In general, tap water is safe to drink and food hygiene is good.
  • Beware of sunstroke and dehydration, because it is quite warm and the humidity can cause you to lose a lot of fluids without noticing.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Sint Maarten?

  • Sint Maarten is known for its extremely slow and blocked traffic. The island is full of cars and has narrow roads, which means that traffic often comes to a standstill.
  • What also doesn't help is that bridges have to be opened regularly for the large yachts that have to enter the harbors. As a result, cars often stand still for a long time.
  • The roads are also not very good. The French part had better roads than the Dutch part for a long time, but even in the French part there are more and more holes in the road.
  • In the Dutch part, the speed limit is 50 km/h on some roads, in the French part you are even allowed to tear over the holes in the road at 70 km/h. If you are going to live on the island alone as an expat, a scooter is your best option. This saves a lot of hassle with parking and you are faster in traffic!
  • Public transport mainly consists of minibuses. These are also called Martin buses. Figuring our their routes may be a bit difficult to figure out at first, but if you live there for a while, this is the cheapest way to get around the island.
  • Marigot Bus Terminal is the starting point for many of these buses.
  • Water taxis are also an option. These are sometimes faster, but more expensive.
  • Taxis are available, but an expensive form of transport if you need them often.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Sint Maarten?

  • Is the trip to Sint Maarten and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Sint Maarten if you are going to live there for a while?

  • If you live in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, you may already be required to have public insurance, but this insurance does not cover all healthcare. It is recommended to have your own international insurance to avoid high costs, especially in the event that medical evacuation or repatriation is necessary.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Organizations: for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting
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      Kom naar dit te gekke feest van TMI en waan je in de Caribische sfeer! Iedereen die via TMI op Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao of Sint Maarten gewerkt heeft en graag collega’s terugziet kan langskomen. Maar ook als je geïnteresseerd bent om op één van deze eila...

      Sint Maarten: Updates & Travel
      • Travel in Sint Maarten?
      • Updates Sint Maarten
      • Travel in Sint Maarten?

        • St. Maarten is an island in the Caribbean divided into two parts, with a French part in the north and a Dutch part in the south. Free movement exists between the two halves. So you can easil...

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