Our Story
The Finalrentals Sint Maarten Story
Though Sint Maarten is the smallest landmass to hold two nations, it is bursting at the seams with stunning nature, adventure and culture that encapsulates the heart of the Caribbean. Finalrentals Sint Maarten are proud to help more and more people to this stunning destination.
Sint Maarten is home to a blend of over 100 nationalities, with the island shared by the French and Dutch. Sint Maarten belongs to the Netherlands, however, there is a lot of travel between the two collectivities as everyone lives in harmony.
One of the first places sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1493, Sint Maarten has a fascinating history. Let’s take a look at this amazing country.
Sint Maarten History
Though it was first seen in 1493, it wasn’t until the 1600s that Sint Maarten’s history truly began when the Dutch occupied the island. Though the Spanish briefly retook the island after Columbus claimed it for Spain, they relinquished control to the French and Dutch.
It was then divided between the two and the economy grew due to cotton, sugar and tobacco trade with African slaves. However, when this was abolished in 1863, the economy then went into decline.
That was until the tourism industry boomed in Sint Maarten in the 1950s and it officially became part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Now, they are a self-governing country where most of people speak a Creole version of English, but many other languages are also spoken, proving its diverse nationalities.
Sint Maarten Culture & People
Sint Maarten is a culturally diverse nation where the people are known for their warm friendly welcome to all on the island. This is something we replicate at Finalrentals Sint Maarten, with our quality customer service in our offices in Princess Juliana, Grand Case and downtown Phillipsburg.
Because of the above, family, friendliness and community are incredibly important. People are keen to help one another by bringing food, offering childcare and even building houses to take care of each other.
Rapid growth on the island has meant there has been an influx of immigration, there are a whole range of cultures in Sint Maarten, blending into something truly unique.
This is most evident throughout their music and cuisine, especially through their annual Carnival in April and Sint Maarten’s Day in November. Both of these celebrations take up the whole island with partying, colourful dress and a vibrant atmosphere around every corner. There are life performances demonstrating a variety of the arts.
Their language is also reflective of its culture, known as S’Maartin English. A combination of unique and distinctive sounds, and original phrases blended with Standard English thrown in. Whilst you’re visiting, definitely make friends with the warm locals so they can teach you some S’Maartin English!
Start Your Finalrentals Sint Maartin Story
The Finalrentals experience isn’t all about car rental. Our service provides you with the resources to plan the perfect trip, making your Finalrentals Sint Maarten story the best it can be.
One way we do this, as well as competitive prices and a wide range of quality vehicles, are through our travel blogs. Our team regularly posts articles about the best places and activities to get up to so you have the perfect Sint Maarten itinerary to suit your trip.
Finalrentals has even done our research into our top recommendations when visiting the island.
For instance, Tintamarre, a small island off the coast of the French collective, is a tropical paradise with white-warming sands with plenty of opportunities to explore beneath the amazing azure waters in the most adventurous ways.
Or, perhaps the capital, Phillipsburg, is more suited to your holiday wants. Whilst it still offers unbelievable views of the coast, it is packed full of history. There are also plenty of shops for some window shopping or for picking up a souvenir or two. With exhibits dedicated to the iconic Yoga and a Casino for some nighttime fun, there is something on offer here for everyone.
And, of course, you need to know all about the best foods to try wherever you go. Luckily, Finalrentals Sint Maarten has that covered too! Check out our blog on What To Eat In Sint Maarten so you’re prepared for some tasty delights when you get there.
Start your Finalrentals Sint Maarten story today and book your rental!