Hi everyone... Hope all is well. I was wondering if there are any Canadians that own businesses in any part of St. Maarten, whether it be shops, bars, restaurants.
Looking to possibly speak to these owners about living/purchasing/owning in lovely St. Maarten, which we will be heading that way in Dec or Jan. I truly appreciate any information one can share with us. have a great day, thanks.

Hey!

There are many Canadians living on Island, owning businesses and prospering.

Your best bet is to follow the advice of the immigration and government authorities or a local lawyer who knows the ropes. Rules may have changed over the years and the process is complicated.

Everyone you eventually speak with will tell you what a frustrating experience starting a business may become.

Best bet is to ask around when you arrive; I doubt posters here would take the liberty to set you up with a Canadian friend or acquaintance, but I may be wrong. I find that business folks on Island are generally tight lipped about their affairs and arrangements.

Denis

Pineapple Pete's owner who is French Canadian (ex Nordiques hockey fan) who runs a successful restaurant might give you some info, the worst you can do there is have a great meal.

I had the right to remain silent...but I didn't.

[burlingtonscwt.wordpress.com]

Pierre is a great guy, and will give you his point of vue. But he has been on SXM for a few years, before he opened Pineapple Petes, and all over the Caribbean. So, paperwork probably was a bit different for him, but, yes, would be a good source of information.

Thanks for the info...and keep it coming if you can...much appreciated

Luc, the owner of 3 Palms Restaurant is also Canadian and has been on the island for a long time.

One of the owners of Uncle Trouble's Tees is from Toronto.

There are also Canadian carpenters, contractors, interior designers, etc. on the island. If you contact one business owner, he or she can likely refer you to others in the community as well.

Good luck.

The young man who owned/ran the Lord Sheffield a couple of years ago was another Canadian. I know that he had a great deal of fun relocating to the island!
M

I have a freind that has a villa....and rents it out...does that count??

Hey, you guys are awesome, thanks, some day if I ever make it my permanent home, wish to run into you nice people.. will keep you posted.

Hello tropical girl,

i am a canadian that moved to sxm, started a business and then sold, i am back in canada. i know some about the island, ask specific questions and perhaps i can assist...

Hi Lisa...I'm sure you dont want everyone to know your business and I do have a few questions, so if you wouldn't mind maybe using my email, then we can converse that way..Let me know- here it is..lynnlpg@yahoo.ca - much appreciated.

Hi,

I'm from Canada and bought an existing business in St. Maarten last year. I'd be happy to help, let me know if you have any questions.

Good luck!

hi, thanks for the post...i will contact you.

Could you e mail me,i might have something for you,Casey