Hello,

Two travel mates from Germany (37/f and 36/m) arriving on March 18, 2009 got lots of questions.

We intend to stay for at least 6 months and our main concern is long-term accommodation.

We are looking for shared accommodation or a 2-bedroom apartment fully or partly furnished. As we are new to SXM we need some general ideas about rental fees, free vacancies, location, approx. time to find anything. Any location where you don't need a car is ok. But information about Philippsburg and Marigot would be a good start. Is it a problem to live on the dutch side for > 3 months?

Is homestay possible to bridge the time? Any nice hostels/guest houses to recommend (<$100 total for two)?

How quick can you get Internet? What are the options? How much is it? How fast is it? 3G would be awesome but probably a dream. But maybe EGDE? And if, how much is a flatrate?

We are gonna hire a car for the first days? Any recommendations on that? Should we book from Germany? Or at the airport? Do we need to book in advance? Any pitfalls? Does EU drivers licence suffice?

As I might not pick up a job I officially need to register after 3 months. But do I need it in practice and if, are there any pitfalls or things I should prepare here in Germany? Like getting a certificate of good conduct or a confirmation of health insurance? Anyone gone this path? Can you deal with the authorities in english?

We have flight tickets from Europe to New York round-trip but only one-way from NY to SXM. Is the missing part gonna become a problem? We are EU citizens and wanna stay flexible.

Any information is greatly appreciated!

If you are a real-estate agent and you think you can help us out please PM me with email address. I will get back to you.
Hopefully this is ok with code of conduct of this forum.

Hey!

A little insight into your most important questions.

On your standard Declaration form you will be presenting to Immigration on your entry they will ask where you are staying. It must be filled in.

You will be asked how long you are staying..it must be filled in.

I have arrived with friends who did not have a return ticket to their country of residence and they were obliged to purchase a ticket before being allowed entry.

Controls by Immigration recently have resulted in the deportation of those living and working on the Island without proper papers. Many are detained in jail immediately before they are escorted to the airport. It isn't pretty !

The reason I am offering this somewhat negative reply is simple.....it's not a "laissez faire" Island when it comes to staying illegally or for over 90 days on vacation.

The Dutch side in particular, protects the local work force from illegals obtaining employment they may qualify for.


BIGDEN