St. Maarten....taxi vs. rental car??

[deannalew]

We are investigating doing our own thing at St. Maartin. We are interested in doing some kind of sight seeing and shopping. We probably will not do much beach time, but who knows?

So, tell me those of you who have done St. Maartin on your own, what is it like taking a cab vs. renting a car?

I know if we want to explore Phillipsburg or Great Bay Beach we just take the water taxi, but I am wondering what to do if we want to see the french side and do some shopping there?

It will be just my hubbie and me.

Thanks.

[inkkognito]

We took a taxi to the riding stables on the French side with no problems at all. It was a pretty long drive...I don't remember the fare, but it was reasonable. The stable told us they could call a cab for the return trip or we could take a bus. We opted for the bus, which turned out to be a van (apparently a "bus" there is anyone with a vehicle who wants to make some extra money!). The fare for that is only a dollar, and the driver was so nice...we were expected to be let off downtown, but he took us to the port even tho' it was off his "route." We are lazy about driving while on vacation, so if we ever returned, we would do the cabs and buses again.
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.*****************

[Dave_from_Marietta]

I rented one of the world's smallest rental cars at St Maarten (<a href="http://www.dcltribute.com/gallery/p133.htm">photo</a>). But it had a/c and felt surprisingly roomy. I enjoy the independence of setting my own timetable and exploring at my whim. There are a couple car rental agencies within walking distance of the dock at the Great Bay Marina.

[peter pans family]

We rented from Avis right near the boat and enjoyed the freedom of having our own vehicle. The jeep cost $60.00 for the day and it allowed us to go at our own pace and see alot more than we would have on a tour. The driving was no problem at all.