Latest updates: Safety and security โ updated information on burglaries. Take normal security precautions in Saint Martin. Back to top. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.
Burglaries occur in resorts, seaside homes, hotels and boats. Violent crime, including armed robbery, sometimes occurs. Criminals sometimes target tourists. Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution, especially at night. Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse and sexual assault. Advice for women travellers. Demonstrations and strikes may cause disruptions to services. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Mass gatherings large-scale events. Coastal waters can be dangerous, and riptides are common. Beaches are unsupervised, and there is no flag warning system to provide notice of water conditions and safety risks. Water pollution is also a problem. Outdoor activities, such as zip-lining, hiking, mountain biking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared.
Trails are not always marked, equipment safety inspections are not carried out regularly, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in the summer. The highway network consists of a belt that goes around both sides of the island, the French part, in Saint Martin, and the Dutch part, in Sint Maarten.
Canadian cell phones work throughout the country, and the network is reliable for emergency calls. Emergency services, including roadside assistance, varies in availability depending on your rental company. Driving conditions may be hazardous, especially during the rainy season, October to February. Secondary and rural roads can be in poor condition. Moped and scooter drivers sometimes engage in urban rodeos, riding on one wheel in front of other cars on the road. Such reckless behavior can be very dangerous for other drivers.
